Bushido, the code of the samurai, was embodied by numerous historical figures who exemplified its principles through their actions and conduct. Here are some notable individuals associated with Bushido:
Yoshitsune Minamoto（1159年 – 1189年）
Through his life and legend, Minamoto no Yoshitsune embodied many of the ideals of bushido. His story as a brave yet tragic hero is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and the spirit of bushido. Yoshitsune’s life shows us the difficulty of pursuing the ideals of bushido in his valour at the Battle of Dannoura and his loyalty to his brother Yoritomo, and the beauty of a military commander who lived up to these ideals.
Shingen Takeda（1521年 – 1573年）
Takeda Shingen embodied the ideals of bushido through his bravery and resourcefulness on the battlefield and his concern for his people in governing the country. His way of life and conduct embodied the three virtues of valour, wisdom and humanity in bushido, the moral code of the samurai, and had a great influence on later generations. Shingen’s way of life as a warrior is still respected by many people today and is passed down as one of the ideals of bushido.
Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543年 – 1616年)
Tokugawa Ieyasu was a feudal lord and the first shogun of the Edo shogunate during the late Sengoku and early Edo periods in Japan. Ieyasu valued the spirit of bushido and brought long-term peace and stability to Japan. After his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara, Ieyasu opened the shogunate and laid the foundations for the Edo period, which lasted for some 260 years. Ieyasu’s government was based on strict law and order, but was also known for promoting the development of culture and the arts. His reign is regarded as a period when the ethos of bushido permeated society as a whole and the spirituality of the warrior class grew.
Miyamoto Musashi (1584年 – 1645年)
Miyamoto Musashi was a legendary swordsman and martial artist active in the early Edo period, best known for his book The Book of Five Rings. He excelled in swordsmanship from an early age and is credited with an undefeated record throughout his life. Musashi fought many duels, the most famous being his duel with Sasaki Kojiro on Ganryujima Island. In this duel, Musashi is said to have used a wooden sword to defeat Kojiro. The Book of Five Rings describes not only techniques, but also the spiritual and philosophical aspects of fighting, and is still read by many today as a document that embodies the spirit of bushido.
Kuranosuke Oishi（1659年 – 1703年）
The actions of Oishi Kuranosuke and the Ako Ronin symbolise the spirit of bushido, particularly its emphasis on loyalty. Bushido refers to the moral code of the samurai and is a concept that includes loyalty, courage, honour and civility. Kuranosuke’s actions demonstrate his absolute loyalty to his lord and his willingness to resolutely protest against injustice.
Jocho Yamamoto（1659年 – 1719年）
Bushido as taught by Yamamoto Tsunetomo and the Hagakure offers profound insights into the way of life and ethics of the samurai. The teachings of Hagakure have been read by many people throughout the ages and are regarded as one of the most important documents conveying the spirit of bushido today. Jōchō’s Bushido portrays the ideal image of the samurai who cherishes the fleeting moment, and whose life-long guiding principles are integrity and loyalty.
These figures played an important role in the history of Japan, embodying and developing Bushido. Their way of life and ideology continues to influence many people today.