A Lady's Life in Tokugawa Japan, Part IV: Off to Battle with Samurai Warrior Women
Jun 24, 2024
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Explore the lives of samurai warrior women in Tokugawa Japan, from their training and Bushido code to their roles in battles. Learn about the honorable yet violent practices of Bushido, and the bravery of legendary figures like Princess Zuru and Tomoe Gozen. Dive into the history of female warriors in a male-dominated military culture.
Samurai women demonstrated bravery by defending homes in battles, upholding family honor and loyalty.
Female samurai warriors like Nakano Takeko and Yamamoto Yeko showed exceptional combat skills in battles against the Meiji forces.
Deep dives
Samurai Culture and Military Elite
Samurai, a noble warrior class in Japan, played a vital role in shaping the country's military culture. Riding into battle on horses, wielding iconic weapons like the katana swords, they were known for their legendary exploits and code of conduct. Samurai armor, intricate and expensive, symbolized ancestry and status, often displayed as a symbol of loyalty to the Emperor.
Role of Samurai Women in Tokugawa Japan
Women in the samurai class, though expected to follow traditional roles, often received martial arts training for defensive purposes. While some women like Princess Zuru fought in battles to defend their homes, most served within their castles, protecting them when men were away. The legendary samurai women upheld family honor and defended against enemies, showcasing bravery and selflessness.
Bushido Code and Samurai Training
The samurai lived by the Bushido code, emphasizing loyalty, compassion, honor, and courage. Their rigorous training included martial arts, horseback riding, and strategies for battle, instilling discipline and precision. Samurai also practiced meditation and Zen Buddhism to cultivate calmness in chaotic situations.
Female Samurai Warriors in History
The historical accounts reflect the valiant acts of female samurai warriors in battles and conflicts. Women like Nakano Takeko and Yamamoto Yeko demonstrated exceptional combat skills, leading the Joshigan in battles against the Meiji forces. Despite facing obstacles and restrictions, these women fought bravely, embodying the ethos of Bushido and honoring their samurai heritage.
In this four-part series, we're time traveling back to Tokugawa Japan (1603-1868) to find out what life was like there for the ladies. If you've been binging Shogun lately, then this one's for you! For show notes, including a list of sources and some cool images, go to The Exploress website (If you're dying for a full transcript, you'll find it over on my Patreon.)
In June, I'm doing a NIGHTBIRDS readalong on my other podcast, Pub Dates. Whether you're looking for a recap before FYREBIRDS comes out or are keen to read along with me for the very first time, it's going to be a lot of fun!
Ways to support The Exploress:
Buy Kate's novel, NIGHTBIRDS. You can also pre-order the sequel, FYREBIRDS, out Aug. 27.
Become a patron and enjoy exclusive bonus episodes, including one about Tomoe Gozen, an infamous Japanese warrior, and a bonus about Japanese goddess Amaterasu.