Countering the Banzai attack

[Boisforas]

I started playing RS and I find the Banzai attack a lot of fun.  However it is very powerful and painful when used against you. So I am wondering how best to counter the Banzai attack. 

First thoughts is it seems that the primary weakness of the Banzai is its vulnerability to firepower.  Retreats convert to losses and TEM are reduced.  The penalties for the Banzai attack extend throughout the following allied turn.  So keeping APs for Op Fire seems important to blunt the initial banzai.   Also using a defense in depth allowing for immediate counterattacks could be very effective.  After a banzai, move reserves to pointblank range and pour in the fire.   It seems like a screen in front of the  main line could be very effective in blunting the initial banzai followed by main force counterattacks. 

Roads and paths are particularly dangerous because a banzai attack can race along them and conduct multiple assaults.  The danger for the Japanese would be isolation on the following turn. 

Anyway, I am wondering what sort of tactics more experienced players are using to counter the Banzai?

Boisforas here, would you care to try out your ideas in some RS play? I'm up for any RS scenario that's reasonably balanced. Email me at [email protected].