Miura Anjin – William Adams: Model for John Blackthorne

From English Navigator to Samurai: The Journey of William Adams

If you’ve watched the hit series Shōgun, you were likely captivated by the journey of John Blackthorne, the English sailor who found himself entangled in the world of samurai and shoguns. His character was inspired by a real historical figure—William Adams, an English navigator who became known in Japan as Miura Anjin (三浦按針).​

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Travel Guide

Hirado — The City Where the Western Samurai, William Adams, Rests

Journey Through Hirado: Where the Western Samurai William Adams Walked and History and Culture Converge William Adams, known in Japan ...

Itō: Tracing Miura Anjin and Japan’s First Western Ship

Remembering Itō—The Birthplace of Japan’s First Western-Style Sailing Ship Anjin, the blue-eyed samurai portrayed in "SHŌGUN," was inspired by Miura ...

Tokyo — Site of Miura Anjin’s Residence

A short walk from Tokyo Station, a monument quietly commemorates Miura Anjin (William Adams). This page explores the story behind ...

Uraga — Historic Sites Associated with Miura Anjin

Anjin, the blue-eyed samurai portrayed in the TV drama "SHŌGUN," was inspired by the real-life figure William Adams—known in Japan ...

Exploring Miura Anjin’s Legacy: Yokosuka Edition

📍 Discovering Miura Anjin’s Legacy: A Walking Tour in Yokosuka Follow the footsteps of William Adams, the first English samurai ...

Travel Journal

Exploring the Legacy of William Adams (Miura Anjin): A Journey Through Historic Hirado

The journey begins at the Hirado Koryu Hiroba Parking Lot. You can park here for free for up to two ...

Tracing the Legacy of the Man Who Inspired the Emmy Award-Winning Drama SHŌGUN—A Journey Through the Land of William Adams (Miura Anjin)

In 2024, the Emmy Award-winning drama SHŌGUN captivated audiences worldwide.The series tells the story of a powerful shōgun inspired by ...

From History to Screen: Meet John Blackthorne