I used Yari Samurai and archers in the center. Then shock troops No-Dachi in the flanks. I rarely used Warrior Monks, even less Heavy Cavalry. Then one or two Yari Cavalry, that's it.

I remember when I encountered the infamous Hojo Horde playing as Shimazu. I had to quit since I was new to the game then. Everytime I break an army, another 5 pops up The bridge provinces were a pain to capture so steamrolling over those was tough and I just autocalculate.

However, the strategic ritual of positioning your troops was still the best!! MTW doesn't even come close (boring, too easy and predictable)! The battle is always in the balance, you're not sure which side will break. The enemy Daimyo can even break the mighty, defensive Naginata. Usually when the enemy Daimyo gets through, then the whole line crumbles. Just amazing

As for the structures, you only need a couple or so provinces to continuosly pump troops, the rest serve as economic cog.