What Was Life Like As a Ronin?
Traditionally in Japan, Ronin led a master less existence, navigating societal disdain while seeking employment and honor, often amidst political upheaval and the complex dynamics of feudal loyalties.
Samurai
Welcome to the section dedicated to samurai. We have many posts covering different aspects of samurai life, but here you will find the biography and guide to many famous names you might recognize from culture.
All Samurai Battles Listed – Including Date and Summary
Navigate the intricacies of Japan’s samurai legacy with a concise collection of pivotal battles. Each entry provides a date and a succinct summary, offering readers an efficient overview of this martial lineage.
Tracing the Journey of Japan’s Last True Samurai – Saigo Takamori
In a time when Japan embraced Western influence, Saigo Takamori’s forward-thinking ideas on societal modernization were significant. His local lord, Shimazu Hisamitsu, used his influence to elevate Saigo’s position in the Imperial court. Saigo’s involvement in the Satsuma Rebellion and the Meiji Restoration established him as a national hero.
What are some famous samurai battles in Japan?
There were many struggles for power in Japan during the period the samurai played a bit part in society. Find out some of the battles here.
Places to See Samurai History When Visiting Modern Day Japan
If you are visiting Japan, here is a breakdown of some of the must-see places to make memories.
The History of Samurai Warfare
This post is all about the brutal warfare that took place, known as Samurai Warfare, as it was so specific to the ways and traditions of the samurai. Where did the term originate, and how did samurai come about? Questions answered.
Samurai that Changed Japan’s Society
This article will give you an overview of the samurai history of Japan, from their founding in the 8th century to the rise of samurai warriors in the 20th century. You’ll learn about legendary figures like Oda Nobunaga, Minamoto Yorimoto, and Sanada Yukimura. Oda Nobunaga The lineage of Oda Nobunaga […]
The First Samurai of Japan
This biography of Taira no Masakado also known as the first samurai covers the earliest years of the Heian era and his role as governor of Shimosa. During this period, the kokushi (officials) in the Kanto region began to squeeze farmers by increasing taxes and forcing them to fight on […]
The First Black Samurai
A mysterious visitor arrived in Japan in 1579. What made him mysterious was that he was from Africa, and he was called Yasuke. Very much of his story still remains a mystery to this day, and there are only verifiable records up to the date of 1582. What made Yasuke […]
Shimazu Yoshihisa
Shimazu Yoshihisa’s childhood and rise to power Yoshihisa was born in 1538, the son of Shogun Ieyasu. The young Yoshihisa was placed in the care of the abbot of Kennin-ji Temple, who educated him until he was eleven years old. At sixteen years old Yoshihisa became a Buddhist monk and […]