SAMURAI

Located just south of Tokyo, Odawara Castle was known as an impregnable fortress—until it was taken down by a party!

While Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were both badly hit by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the region has now largely recovered, and is looking to see travelers flock in once again.

These collections of samurai armor, ancient artifacts and futuristic technology are sure to pique your interest.

You probably know Miyamoto Musashi, but how many other real-world samurai can you name? Here are 12 of the most famous samurai in Japan!

Japan's Heian Period was dominated by four clans known collectively as Gem-pei-to-kitsu. These clans produced countless famous officials and warriors, and have even influenced Japan all the way to the present day.

Relive the Edo days with our selection of samurai-related spots in and near Tokyo... with two special bonuses!

Chances are, figurine collectors who are obsessed with Marvel characters probably already have one or two Captain America figurines, but this one from Bandai is the perfect blend of the beloved American comic book hero and historical Japanese warriors.

Not only are these scissors in the shape of Japanese swords, but their designs are inspired by four famous samurai.