following the shogun

Taiga Drama

Taiga Drama: Gunshi Kanbee — Part I

Dive into Part I of NHK’s epic Taiga drama Gunshi Kanbee (starring Junichi Okada), exploring the young strategist’s unwavering ideals, his fateful meetings with Hideyoshi and Hanbee, the strength of family ties, and the early signs of betrayal. A moving portrait of Kanbee’s formative years in Himeji.
Taiga Drama

Watching the Taiga Drama “Gunshi Kanbee”

Explore the life of Kuroda Kanbee, Japan’s legendary strategist, through NHK's Taiga drama Gunshi Kanbee starring Junichi Okada. In three powerful chapters—Ideals, Betrayal, and Sincerity—this blog unpacks his extraordinary humanity in the chaos of the Sengoku era. A must-read for history drama fans, whether you’ve seen the series or not.
Ieyasu Travel Journal

August 2025: Nikko Toshogu Shrine – Special Prayer Tour in the Shogun’s Seated Chamber | Travel Diary

Join our 2025 travel diary at Nikko Toshogu Shrine—featuring the Shogun’s Chamber prayer, Yomeimon Gate, the Sleeping Cat, and hidden paths rarely seen.
Hideyoshi Travel Journal

Special Report: Exclusive Access to Himeji Castle’s Hishi-no-Mon Gate

Step inside Himeji Castle’s Hishi-no-Mon Gate—rarely open to the public. Discover its rich history, interior views, and samurai secrets during this 2025 special event.
Ieyasu Travel Guide

Asakusa and the Tokugawa Shoguns: A Complete Guide to Sacred Sites Linked to Tokugawa Ieyasu

Explore the deep ties between Tokugawa Ieyasu, the shogunate, and Sensō-ji in Asakusa. Discover the lost Asakusa Tōshō-gū Shrine, Kaminarimon Gate, Asakusa Shrine, and Nitenmon, tracing the shoguns’ lasting legacy in Edo’s most sacred temple.
Anjin Travel Journal

Attending Prof. Frédéric Cléans’ Special Lecture on the Historical Accuracy of Shōgun (Aug. 10, 2025)

On Aug 10, 2025, Prof. Frédéric Cléans gave a special lecture in Ito on the historical basis of Shōgun. Here’s a detailed onsite report.
Ieyasu Travel Journal

A Historical Journey Through Kaneiji Temple: Walking Among the Resting Places of the Tokugawa Shoguns

Join a historical walking tour through Kaneiji Temple in Ueno, exploring the Tokugawa mausoleums, temple schools, and the legacy of Great Priest Tenkai.
Ieyasu Travel Journal

A Midsummer Return to Hamamatsu: A Day Exploring Landmarks Linked to Tokugawa Ieyasu

Walk in Tokugawa Ieyasu’s footsteps in Hamamatsu. From Hamamatsu Castle to hidden shrines and graves, explore Sengoku history beyond typical sightseeing.
Nobunaga Travel Guide

Azuchi Castle – Outer Grounds Guide

Explore Oda Nobunaga’s Azuchi Castle outer grounds—visit Castle Navi Museum, Ishibe Shrine, and historic spots rich in Sengoku-era romance.
Anjin Travel Guide

William Adams (Miura Anjin) Travel Guide: Yokosuka Edition

Explore Miura Anjin’s legacy in Yokosuka with this self-guided walking tour. Visit Anjinzuka Memorial, Kashima Shrine, and Jōdoji Temple, tracing Japan’s first English samurai.