Crucifixion was actually a method of execution for criminals in Japan. I have seen it depicted with the criminals being strapped to X-shaped crosses instead of being nailed to T-shaped crosses, but this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crucifixion#Japan) seems to indicate that that was not always the case. One form of the execution culminated in yari being thrust under the criminal's ribcage and out their shoulders, presumably as a rather painful end to a rather painful torture.