How I Learned to Wield a Samurai Sword
Spending a few hours, or even a day, at Meihodo, a complex of Edo-style buildings and gardens in the Mt. Aso caldera of Kyushu's Kumamoto Prefecture, is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in samurai culture.
Aizuwakamatsu: Japan's Samurai City
Nestled in the mountains of Fukushima Prefecture, the city of Aizuwakamatsu has cultivated a deep connection with its samurai roots. Join our writer Noam as he explores the local history and traditions of Samurai City Aizu!
Daughters of Meiji: Women's Education in Japan
At the dawn of the Meiji Period, three young girls were sent to live in the United States to experience American education and society firsthand and bring their knowledge back to Japan.
Warrior Portfolio: From “An Illustrated Guide to Samurai History and Culture”
With the vividly illustrated pages of this new book, author Gavin Blair takes a deep dive into depictions of the legendary samurai warrior class.
Discovering My Inner Samurai in Aizuwakamatsu
British travel blogger and freelance writer Emily Luxton spent some time in "Samurai City" Aizuwakamatsu, in Fukushima Prefecture. There, she explored the area's rich culture and history, and discovered her inner samurai!
The Battle of Kawanakajima Rages on in Mie
The legendary feud between prolific samurai Takeda Shingen and Kenshin Uesugi rages on in Mie! 100 people don armor and wield weapons to reenact the ferocious Battle of Kawanakajima.
A Samurai History Tour: Japan’s Most Famous Battlefield and a Remarkable Castle
The Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 was a decisive clash of warlords that led to the unification of Japan. Today, you can visit significant historical spots, including a state-of-the art museum about the battle, and a castle dating from those dramatic times.
In Samurai Footsteps: The 47 Ronin Tour
One of the most famous stories of historical times is the saga of the 47 ronin, a group of samurai who avenged their deceased lord in a famous vendetta. Tokyo has several spots where fans of the story can visit to pay homage to the dedicated warriors.
Top 6 Places to Visit in Akita
Akita tends to be pretty far off the beaten path, even for those who do make it to Tohoku. However, Akita is rich in both history and natural beauty, well worth a visit.
Enter the Samurai Time in Aizuwakamatsu
Visit Aizuwakamatsu, where travelers can gain an understanding of how its rich samurai history still plays a part in almost every aspect of modern daily life. Ancient traditions, castles, martial arts, traditional food and more are waiting in Aizu!
Five Women Warriors from Japanese History
Samurai, street fighters, and shamanesses--Japan has its share of fighting women over the centuries. Here are five of the country's most celebrated warriors.
The Last Samurai of Aizuwakamatsu
In the Japanese city of Aizuwakamatsu, the last samurai fought to defend their way of life. On a visit to Aizu, you can experience samurai life yourself. Join travel blogger extraordinaire Michael Turtle as he does just that.
A Walk Through Tokyo History: Yotsuya to Shinjuku on the Koshu Kaido Road
Historical Site Tokyo Day Trips
A guide to walking through the center of Tokyo on the course of the Koshu Kaido road, one of the five routes that connected the old city of Edo with the provinces. Among the modern buildings and bustling streets are remnants of a remarkable past.
Aizu Wakamatsu Lives by the Code of its Samurai Past
A visit to Aizu Wakamatsu is a chance to study the samurai code that emphasized honor, respect and ethical behavior.
Learning Japan's Ancient Horseback Archery
Yabusame is a traditional samurai martial, involving shooting an arrow at a target from the back of a horse galloping at full speed. I attempted to learn this in one day. And so can you.
Samurai Clean the Mean Streets of Tokyo
A trio of samurai armed with tongs perform as they fight to keep the streets of the metropolis free from litter.
Learn the Legacy of the Samurai
Experience 700 years of Samurai history at the Shinjuku Samurai Museum. See real swords, armor, helmets, and other tools and weapons.
Travel Back to Feudal Japan at this Private House Complex
NEOLD Private House is exactly what it says on the label: It’s new, it’s old, and it’s private. It’s also quite a bit more, as I discovered when I was lucky enough to stay there.
Give Your Favorite Booze Samurai-Style!
Oh, Japan! These intricately crafted bottle toppers are perfect for history buffs interested in legendary warriors of Japanese history.
