Sengoku Jidai 1550~1600

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1. #1Sengoku period

   Keys: Sengoku period, Sengoku jidai, Sengoku, Warring States period

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   The Sengoku period, also known as the Warring States period or Sengoku jidai, was a time of great turmoil in Japan. During this era, Japan was divided and ruled by over 200 different warlords, known as Daimyo. Some well-known Daimyo include Tokugawa Ieyasu, Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Takeda Shingen, Uesugi Kenshin, Hōjō Ujiyasu, Sanada Yukimura, and Ishida Mitsunari.

   Nominally, Japan was unified under the shogunate, which was ruled by the Shogun, while the Emperor was reduced to a figurehead role, primarily serving as a religious leader.

   The story takes place around 1550-1600 (mid-16th century).

2. #2Kuni

   Keys: Feudal domain, Kuni, country, warlord territories

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   During the Sengoku period, there were over 200 feudal domains, each ruled by a Daimyo. These domains were not merely considered warlord territories but were seen as independent states. Japan as a whole was referred to as "Tenka," which served as the stage for the Daimyos' struggle for power.

3. #3Daimyo

   Keys: Daimyo, warlord

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   Daimyo refers to the feudal lords of Japan who wielded military power and governed their own territories. Each Daimyo controlled different lands, resulting in varying incomes derived from war spoils and land taxes.

   Typically, these domains are identified by the Daimyo's name followed by "Clan," such as the Ashikaga Clan. Each Daimyo and their vassals even had their own family crests, akin to national emblems, which adorned their armor and flags, serving as symbols of identification in warfare.

   Becoming a Daimyo usually involved seizing territories from other Daimyo through military conquest, with succession often following hereditary lines akin to monarchies.

   The ultimate aspiration of a Daimyo was "joraku," meaning to lead their armies into Kyoto, to control all of Japan, and potentially ascend to become the new Shogun.

4. #4Shogun,Shogunate

   Keys: Ashikaga, Bakufu, Shogunate, Shogun

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   The Shogun is the title for the political and military leader of all Japan. The Shogun typically resides in Kyoto and holds the power to command all the Daimyo throughout the land. The government of the Shogun is called Bakufu, also known as the Shogunate. The current Shogun is from the Ashikaga family, referred to as the Ashikaga Bakufu or the Muromachi Bakufu.

5. #5Social Classes

   Keys: Social Classes, artisans, farmers, merchants, samurai, Social Class

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   Japanese society is primarily divided into samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants, with the samurai holding the highest status. Samurai are professional warriors employed by the Daimyo, to whom they owe loyalty. They have the right to carry swords.

   Additionally, there is an outcast class in Japan. These individuals have no rights and can be killed by samurai without the samurai being held accountable.

   In Japan, there is almost no opportunity to change one's social class. If someone is born a samurai, their descendants will also be samurai. If someone is born an outcast, their descendants will also be outcasts, and so on.

6. #6Japan (Tenka)

   Keys: Japan, Tenka, The realm

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   During the Sengoku period, Japan was not considered a single country but rather a realm contested by various Daimyo. Therefore, there was no concept of a unified Japanese nation at that time.

7. #7Attitude Toward Daimyo

   Keys: Attitude Toward Daimyo, National Belief, etiquette

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   The Japanese regard their Daimyo as inviolable. They will avoid speaking ill of their own Daimyo and even refrain from criticizing enemy Daimyo. If a Daimyo feels insulted, they can directly execute the offender. If the offender believes they have offended their Daimyo, they might commit suicide, and in severe cases, they may also kill their wife and children to accompany them in death. The Japanese see death as merely the end of life, so they usually do not fear it but face it with a detached attitude.

   When a daimyo passes by or is about to pass by, commoners must clear the way and kneel in reverence. They must fully kneel down, bowing their heads to the ground. They are not allowed to raise their heads until the daimyo's procession has completely passed. Failure to comply is considered disrespectful and may result in severe consequences, possibly death.

   The only exceptions are midwives or those assisting in childbirth, who are permitted to ignore the passage of the daimyo's procession.

8. #8Seppuku

   Keys: Seppuku, Suicide, Harakiri, Kappuku

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   This is the traditional method of suicide for all Japanese people, considered to be dignified. Seppuku is a ritualistic form of suicide where the individual wears a white kimono, exposes their chest and abdomen, kneels, and uses a short sword or Katana to cut open their abdomen, allowing their intestines to spill out. The process is extremely painful.

   Sometimes, before committing Seppuku, a samurai will write a farewell poem as their final words. Due to the immense pain involved, a second person known as a kaishakunin is often present. The kaishakunin's duty is to decapitate the samurai after they have made the cut to their abdomen, ensuring a quicker death.

   The individual committing Seppuku will try to lean forward while dying, symbolizing courage and a lack of retreat. There are different types of cuts used in Seppuku: the single horizontal cut (ichimonji), the cross-shaped cut (jumonji), and the triple cut (sanmonji). The single horizontal cut is a simple slash across the abdomen, the cross-shaped cut involves making an additional vertical cut, and the triple cut involves making three incisions. Due to the extreme pain, those who perform the triple cut are often seen as true samurai and are respected for their bravery.

   If someone declares their intention to commit seppuku, they must follow through with it. This act is tied to a samurai's dignity and honor—it is a promise that cannot be broken. Should a samurai break this promise and refuse to commit seppuku, no one will force them to do so, but they will be seen as dishonorable and untrustworthy. This will lead to a complete loss of social standing and respect.

9. #9Wife

   Keys: Wife

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   In Japan, a wife is regarded as her husband's personal property. To be considered a good wife, she must be frugal, manage the household, and stay at home without going out. A wife must absolutely obey her husband's commands, even if he asks her to commit suicide. Her status in the home is always lower than that of her husband.

10. #10Tenno

    Keys: Tenno, Tenno-heika, The Emperor

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    The tenno resides in Kyoto and is considered a highly sacred and inviolable figure, regarded as a living deity. Out of respect, people always address the Emperor as "Tenno-heika." The Emperor holds no real power, as his authority is overshadowed by the Shogun of the Shogunate.

11. #11Samurai

    Keys: Samurai, bushi, shi

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    Samurai, also known as Bushi or Shi, is a social class and profession in Japan. Samurai serve under Daimyo, receiving salaries from them.

    Samurai hold the highest social status in Japan, with the lowest-ranking among them known as Ashigaru. Regardless of rank, all Samurai have the privilege of carrying swords.

    If a Samurai ceases to serve a Daimyo for any reason, they are called Ronin. Ronin may become bandits or pirates (known as Wokou), but they still retain their status as Samurai.

12. #12Samurai Armor

    Keys: Samurai Armor, Armor, bushi's armor

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    Samurai armor, especially that of Daimyo, is distinctive in its design. Unlike the heavy iron armor used in Europe, Samurai armor is crafted from iron, bamboo, and paper, making it lightweight and flexible.

    Daimyo and their vassals emphasized both protection and personal style in their armor. They adorned their helmets with unique decorations such as deer antlers, bull horns, round iron plates, characters cast in metal, or even large square iron plates. Helmets were sometimes shaped in peculiar forms like round, pointed, or with mane-like crests resembling lions.

    Armor worn by normal bushi and soldiers often lacked such elaborate features and were more uniform in appearance, as they were typically borrowed from the Daimyo. However, they still maintained a unified color, usually black, and carried flags on their backs bearing the Daimyo's family crest for identification on the battlefield.

    Samurai did not wear armor at all times; it was typically displayed as a decoration and symbol of authority on an armor stand at home. It was only worn during times of war, a process that required assistance due to the complexity of donning armor.

13. #13Sword

    Keys: Tachi, Japanese Swords, Sword, Katana, Japanese Sword

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    There are many types of Japanese swords, commonly divided into two categories: Tachi and Katana. The difference lies in that the blade of Tachi always faces downwards, while the blade of Katana faces upwards.

    In addition to Tachi and Katana, there are also Wakizashi (a smaller version of the Samurai sword), Ōdachi (a larger version of the Tachi), Naginata (a sword with a long handle), and Tantō (a dagger with a blade similar in length to its handle). Typically, Samurai would carry a Katana or Tachi along with a Wakizashi as their personal sword, secured on the right side of their waist.

    The sword is considered a symbol of Samurai authority and status, and it is usually kept close. When entering someone else's home, Samurai would place their sword on a designated rack as a symbol of respect and goodwill.

    Samurai strictly forbid others from touching their swords, which is considered provocative and disrespectful behavior. Before sitting down for a conversation with others, Samurai would typically remove their sword and place it on their right side. Placing the sword on the left side would signify disrespect or a challenge to duel.

14. #14Gun

    Keys: Teppou, Gun, Firearms, Guns

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    During the Sengoku period, firearms were all matchlock guns, introduced to Japan by the Portuguese. Once learned by the Japanese, production began domestically, referred to as "teppou" rather than "gun."

    Teppou were considered obscure and impractical weapons in Japan for several reasons. They were expensive, slow to reload, and lacked established tactics for their use in military operations. As a result, most Daimyo did not understand how to effectively employ teppou in their armies. Typically, each Daimyo would only purchase a few dozen or at most a couple hundred teppou, occasionally deploying them in battles without a coherent strategy.

    After firing, teppou typically required over 40 seconds to reload, necessitating reloading after each shot. They had an effective range of approximately 150 meters, becoming less accurate at longer distances and rendered unusable in rainy conditions.

15. #15European Traders

    Keys: Dutch, Europeans, European Traders, Foreigner, Nanban, Portuguese

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    The primary European traders in Japan were the Dutch and the Portuguese, whom the Japanese referred to as "Nanban," meaning "southern barbarians." Initially, the Japanese viewed them with disdain. However, after learning the Nanban's technologies, such as matchlock guns, plate armor, and shipbuilding, the Japanese began to trust them. Consequently, it was sometimes possible for Nanban to be granted samurai status.

    The Dutch and Portuguese were in competition due to national interests and religious differences.

16. #16Japanese Religions

    Keys: Shinto, Japanese Religions, Religion, Confucianism, Catholicism, Buddhism

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    The primary religions in Japan are Buddhism and Shinto, which together encompass over 70% of the population. Some individuals practice both religions simultaneously. Buddhism and Confucianism were introduced from China, but Confucianism has had less influence in Japan, resulting in fewer followers.

    The least practiced religion is Catholicism, which was introduced by the Portuguese and has only a small number of adherents. The various religions in Japan coexist relatively harmoniously, leading to few religious conflicts or wars.

17. #17Minerals

    Keys: Gold Mines, Minerals, gold, Silver

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    Japan has a wealth of surface minerals, especially gold and silver. These minerals form a part of the Daimyo's tax revenue. Some Daimyo, such as the Takeda Clan, became wealthy and developed into powerful warlords by exploiting gold mines.

18. #18Ancient Provinces

    Keys: Counties, Kuni, Provinces

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    During Japan's Sengoku period, there was no concept of modern counties or cities. Instead, the country was divided into provinces under the Ritsuryō system, such as Mikawa Province, Ōkawa Province, Mutsu Province, and so on. Therefore, modern county or city names did not exist.

    Additionally, some important cities were referred to by their ancient names, such as calling Tokyo "Edo."

19. #19Etiquette

    Keys: Etiquette

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    Japanese people are always polite, regardless of their feelings toward the other person. They always treat others with courtesy and use appropriate manners. However, this can make it difficult for outsiders to discern their emotions and feelings.

20. #20War

    Keys: War, Wars

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    Wars constantly occur throughout Japan, initiated by the Daimyo. The Shogunate does not intervene to manage these conflicts. The scale of a war depends on the strength of the Daimyo and the number of samurai they command. Sometimes, wars involve only a few hundred people, while other times they can reach up to tens of thousands, though this is very rare. A Daimyo with an army exceeding ten thousand soldiers is considered powerful.

    Before battles between Daimyo, whether skirmishes or sieges, formations are arranged by both sides. Once formations are set, a drum will be beat and a conch shell is blown to signal the start of the battle. The conch shell produces a loud humming sound. Sometimes, signal arrows are also fired. This is usually done by the attacking side. Skirmishes and other types of battles do not follow this protocol. At the start of a battle, the attacking side signals the beginning of the conflict by gradually accelerating the beating of drums while blowing conch shells. Some Daimyo have their entire army perform a war cry before the battle begins to boost morale. A common chant is "Hey! Hey! Ho!" with the whole army shouting together.

21. #21Units

    Keys: Teppou, soldiers, Yari, Archers, Units, Cavalry, soldier, ashigaru, Musketeers, Spear, army, Bodyguards

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    The Daimyo's army is primarily composed of five types of units: spearmen, cavalry, bodyguards, teppou (musketeers), and archers.

    Yari (Spears): Spearmen are the most numerous unit in the army, usually formed by ashigaru (foot soldiers). Their spears are typically over seven meters long, as longer spears are more effective for attacking enemies from a distance. Spearmen's role is to engage enemy spearmen and cavalry. When facing other spearmen, they tend to fight in a line rather than in a phalanx.

    Cavalry: Cavalry units are relatively few because Japan's terrain is not well-suited for cavalry, and training cavalry requires significant time and resources. Cavalry use katanas in combat, employing quick charges and surprise attacks to disrupt and pressure the enemy, breaking their formations.

    Bodyguards: The bodyguards are composed of the strongest samurai. They do not engage directly in combat but act as protectors for the Daimyo during battles.

    Teppou (Musketeers): Musketeers form teppou units and are the smallest in number. They are often used as shock troops, guerrilla fighters, or assassins. They are more commonly seen in defensive battles.

    Archers: Mostly composed of ashigaru, but there are also specialized samurai archers. They rely on volleys of arrows to inflict damage on the enemy.

22. #22Castles

    Keys: Yamashiro, Sannomaru, Castles, Shiro, Honmaru, Ninomaru

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    The fortresses and castle in Japan are referred to as "Shiro", Due to Japan's mountainous terrain, castles are often built on hills, though there are also many located on plains.

    Japanese mountain castles typically serve as fortresses and defensive structures. They are generally not large in scale, making them vulnerable to siege.

    Flatland castles in Japan, besides serving as fortresses and defensive structures, also function as political and economic centers for Daimyo (feudal lords). They are often built along riversides to facilitate military and commercial use of waterways.

    Castles are typically organized into three tiers, though smaller castles may not have as many tiers. The outermost tier is called "San no Maru," the middle tier is "Ni no Maru," and at the center is the main castle where the Daimyo resides, known as "Hon Maru." Larger castles may have additional tiers like "Yon no Maru" (fourth tier) and "Go no Maru" (fifth tier) outside of the "San no Maru."

23. #23Military Alliance

    Keys: Alliance, Military Alliance

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    Sometimes Daimyo form military alliances based on mutual interests. These alliances are often temporary and dissolve when the interests of the parties diverge, sometimes leading to conflicts or wars between former allies. There are no permanent alliances in this context.

24. #24Hostage

    Keys: Hostage

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    Some Daimyo, due to certain interests or strategic disadvantages, may send their own sons as hostages to another Daimyo. For instance, Toyotomi Hideyoshi was once sent as a hostage in such circumstances.

25. #25Vassal

    Keys: hatamoto, Retainer, Vassal, Kerai

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    A retainer, known as "kerai" in Japanese, refers to a senior warrior who serves under a Daimyo, acting as a high-ranking samurai in the Daimyo's government. Retainers, like the Daimyo, have their own family crest and may even possess their own soldiers and territories, although these are generally considered as belonging to the Daimyo until the retainer ceases to serve them.

    Retainers also serve as generals in the army, leading the Daimyo's forces into battle and willingly sacrificing their lives for their lord. It's worth noting that retainers themselves may have their own retainers, who, like the retainers, pledge allegiance both to the Daimyo and to their immediate lord.

    Some retainers are hereditary vassals who have served the same clan for generations, and they are often seen as more trustworthy by the daimyo.

    These retainers, also known as "hatamoto", may possess their own castles and armies. During times of war, they willingly offer their troops and fortresses for the daimyo's use in battle.

26. #26Ninja

    Keys: Ninja, Ninjas

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    Ninjas are typically not directly affiliated with Daimyo but act as neutral parties who accept missions from Daimyo to assist in assassinations, espionage, sabotage, and other tasks. They often do not dress in the traditional ninja image seen in media but rather disguise themselves as ordinary people, infiltrating enemy castles to gather intelligence.

    Ninjas use a ninja-to as their weapon, which is longer than a tanto but shorter than a standard samurai sword, making it convenient for them to carry. However, in most situations, they do not carry their ninja-to, as doing so would reveal their identity as ninjas.

    Ninjas never betray their employers and keep their mouths shut, not even disclosing any information about their employers to their fellow villagers.

    Ninjas reside in ninja villages, which are highly secretive and difficult to find. Inside and outside the village, there are numerous secret passages connecting to various locations, and the village itself is incredibly complex, with many traps outside that can lead one astray without guidance.

    The most famous ninja factions are the Iga ninja and Koga ninja, whose ninja villages are located adjacent to each other's territories. The Iga and Koga ninjas are hostile towards each other and hold each other in contempt, each faction believing the other to be impostors and not true ninjas, merely despicable pretenders.

    Ninjas are divided into three ranks: jonin (upper ninjas), chunin (middle ninjas), and genin (lower ninjas). Genin and chunin are responsible for carrying out missions and gathering intelligence, while jonin remain in the ninja village like commanders to make decisions.

27. #27Temple

    Keys: monk, sohei, Temple, Temples, monks

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    During the Sengoku period, temples were highly unique entities often existing as independent third-party forces separate from Daimyo. They had their own economy, territories, and sometimes even armies composed of local supporters and warrior monks known as "sohei". Sohei were formidable fighters, typically armed with naginata.

    Due to the influence and military strength of temples, they were seen as thorns in the side of Daimyo. Daimyo often sought to eliminate them but found it difficult due to the temples' formidable power.

28. #28Tiger of Kai, Takeda clan

    Keys: Takeda, Takeda Shingen, Takeda Clan, Tiger of Kai

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    The Takeda Clan is led by Takeda Shingen, whose territory is located in the Kai Province, roughly corresponding to present-day Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan.

    Takeda Shingen is a cunning and ruthless veteran, considered one of the strongest Daimyo in Japan. He amassed great wealth from the gold mines within his territory, gradually becoming one of the most influential Daimyo.

    Takeda Shingen is known as the "Tiger of Kai." His army includes the fearsome Red Cavalry, also known as the "Akazonae," who are renowned for their invincibility. All of his troops wear red armor, creating a striking image that leaves a deep impression on their enemies. Most opponents find it difficult to withstand the cavalry's charges.

29. #29Hideyoshi, Hideyoshi Clan

    Keys: Hashiba Hideyoshi, Hideyoshi, Hashiba, Toyotomi Hideyoshi

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    Hashiba Hideyoshi originally started as a commoner under the Daimyo Oda Nobunaga. Due to his talent, he gradually rose through the ranks under Oda Nobunaga's leadership.

    While serving Oda Nobunaga, Hideyoshi became a samurai and was nicknamed "Monkey" by Nobunaga. He was well-liked by Nobunaga for his intelligence and capabilities, eventually becoming one of Nobunaga's top generals.

    Hideyoshi was extremely patient, constantly seeking opportunities for advancement. After the Honnō-ji Incident in 1582, he managed to seize power over the Oda Clan through a series of strategic meetings, turning the Oda Clan's forces into his own.

    In 1583, he constructed Osaka Castle, the largest castle of its time. By 1585, he had become the Imperial Regent (Kampaku) and in 1587, he received the surname "Toyotomi," renaming himself Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He became the de facto ruler of Japan, although he never assumed the title of Shogun.

    Compared to Tokugawa Ieyasu, Toyotomi Hideyoshi is an expert in building, defending, and besieging castles, but he is less skilled in open-field battles.

30. #30Oda, Oda Clan

    Keys: Oda Nobunaga, Oda Clan, Oda

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    Oda Nobunaga is one of Japan's most famous and powerful Daimyo, leading the Oda Clan. Ambitious and driven, he aimed to unify Japan and become its ruler.

    Nobunaga's territory was in Owari Province, roughly corresponding to the western part of present-day Aichi Prefecture. He was allied with another Daimyo, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and Toyotomi Hideyoshi was his subordinate, whom he nicknamed "Monkey."

    Nobunaga had a highly advanced strategic mindset and was extremely bold in his military tactics. He was the first to grasp the practical use of the teppou (firearm) and was almost the only Daimyo to do so at that time. He extensively equipped his troops with teppou, having more than 500 firearms, and developed the three-line volley fire tactic. In this tactic, soldiers were arranged in three rows, with the first row firing, the second and third rows reloading. Wooden palisades and chevaux-de-frise were placed in front to block cavalry charges. This method significantly reduced the interval between shots, allowing for rapid and continuous firing, making it deadly against cavalry.

    Nobunaga's principle was "Tenka Fubu", which means "Bringing the whole Japan under military rule." He believed that with a large number of soldiers guarding all of Japan, rebellions could be suppressed, leading to peace.

31. #31Tokugawa, Tokugawa Clan

    Keys: Tokugawa, Tokugawa Clan, Tokugawa Ieyasu

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    Tokugawa Ieyasu was one of the most influential Daimyo of the Sengoku period. He was the leader of the Tokugawa Clan and an ally of Oda Nobunaga. Having been childhood playmates, Ieyasu and Nobunaga had a strong foundation of trust, and their alliance persisted until Nobunaga's assassination in the Honnoji Incident and the subsequent takeover of the Oda Clan by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. After this, Hideyoshi became Ieyasu's primary adversary.

    Ieyasu's domain was located in the vicinity of Mikawa Province.

    Ieyasu was a highly potential, cunning, extremely intelligent, and adept strategist. In 1603, he was appointed Shogun by the Emperor, establishing the Edo Shogunate (also known as the Tokugawa Shogunate).

    Tokugawa Ieyasu is a master of field battles, though he is less adept at siege and castle defense compared to Hideyoshi.

32. #32Daughters

    Keys: Daughters of Daimyo, Daughters, Daughter

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    The daughters of daimyo are often used as political tools. They are considered adults around the age of fourteen. A daimyo would choose a suitable commander as her husband, and the commander who marries the daimyo's daughter would be elevated to become part of the daimyo's family.

    Sometimes, daughters are used to forge alliances with other daimyo. The daimyo would marry his daughter to another daimyo or to the son of another daimyo. This would quickly establish a friendly and close relationship between the two daimyo, potentially forming a military alliance.

    If a daimyo has no sons, his eldest daughter might be raised as a son. She would be taught martial arts, governance, and tactics, preparing her to possibly inherit the daimyo's family and power, becoming the new leader in the future.

33. #33Son

    Keys: Son, Sons of Daimyo, Sons

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    The sons of daimyo are given special attention and are seen as potential heirs and military commanders. They are trained in various disciplines, including etiquette, archery, swordsmanship, leading troops, tactics, and governance.

    At the age of 15, daimyo sons are considered adults. They don armor and join their fathers on the battlefield, commanding the daimyo's troops as generals.

    Upon the daimyo's death, the eldest son typically inherits everything. This includes titles granted by the emperor, the current army, stipends, territories, and retainers, thus becoming the new daimyo.

34. #34Honor

    Keys: the Honor of a Daimyo, Daimyo's honor, Honor, Dignity

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    A daimyo values honor and reputation above all else. Their honor and reputation encompass their good deeds, the titles granted by the emperor, and their power. If a daimyo loses all honor, they are likely to commit seppuku.

    In addition to valuing their own honor, a daimyo also respects the honor of their enemies and subordinates, avoiding slander or insults toward other daimyo.

    If someone insults a daimyo, the daimyo may demand that the person commit seppuku, unless the offender is also a daimyo.

    If a daimyo is captured by the enemy and all hope of rescue is lost, they are likely to request the right to commit seppuku. The enemy would typically grant this request, providing the necessary setting and a Kaishakuhito, allowing the captured daimyo to preserve their dignity and honor to the end.

35. #35Ships

    Keys: Warships, Ships

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    Japanese warships are made of wood and have a square shape with no sharp prow. They are relatively small and have a shallow draft, making them suitable for coastal navigation but not for open sea voyages. Due to these characteristics, Japanese warships typically stay within sight of the shore during their travels.

36. #36Cannon

    Keys: Japanese Cannons, Catapults, Cannons

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    Japan does not use ballistae; instead, catapults are the primary siege weapons. These catapults hurl flaming bombs or stones to damage enemy castles and walls. Cannons were first introduced to Japan by the Portuguese. After their introduction, the Japanese learned to manufacture and produce cannons domestically. Despite their powerful impact, cannons have a shorter range and are unreliable, with a risk of bursting upon firing. Consequently, the armies of various daimyos generally prefer not to use cannons.

37. #37Kaishakunin

    Keys: kaishakunin, Kaishaku

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    In Japan, a kaishakunin is the person responsible for beheading someone who is about to commit seppuku (ritual suicide). Because seppuku is extremely painful, those who perform it almost always request a kaishakunin.

    The kaishakunin is usually a person trusted by the one committing seppuku, or they may be directly appointed. The role requires a high level of swordsmanship skill, as a failed beheading could cause even greater pain to the person. This is a common occurrence.

38. #38Japanese shield

    Keys: Shield, Shields

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    Shields were rarely used in Japan. The only type of shield they employed was a large rectangular wooden shield, effective against teppou (firearms) and arrows. These shields were usually fixed to the ground as part of a defensive position and were seldom carried.

    Additionally, the Japanese used a type of round shield made by bundling several bamboo sticks together. These large shields were typically used in defensive battles, but attackers would also carry them while approaching enemy walls during sieges to block enemy projectiles.

39. #39Duel

    Keys: Challenges, Duel, Duels, Challenge

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    general or high-ranked samurai could attempt to challenge enemy general during battle, which was considered honorable.

    When a general charged into the enemy ranks during a battle or led the assault into an enemy castle during a siege and decided to duel, he would loudly announce his name, rank, and allegiance, and challenge the enemy commander or general to face him. This was seen as a formal duel request. At this point, no one would attack him with arrows or teppou (firearms); instead, they would come forward to duel.

    If an enemy general accepted the challenge, everyone, friend or foe, would make space for the duel until a winner was decided. The victor would then behead the defeated opponent as a display of honor and to intimidate the enemy.

40. #40Family crest

    Keys: Family Crest, Clan crest

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    Each daimyo has their own family crest, and the retainers also possess their unique crests. These crests typically consist of simple symbols or patterns, and some may include kanji characters. The family crests are printed on the daimyo's clothing and banners as symbols of their identity.

41. #41Flag

    Keys: Teppou, soldiers, flag, Yari, banner, Archers, back flag, Units, Cavalry, soldier, ashigaru, Musketeers, back flags, Spear, army, Bodyguards

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    Back flags hold significant importance in battle as they are the primary means of identifying friend from foe at a distance and boosting morale. Typically, back flags feature a white background with the daimyo's crest in black or gold.

    In rare instances, samurai may write on their back flags instead of displaying the daimyo's crest. Writing their name on the flag indicates a desire to attract the enemy's attention or to signal an intention for revenge. Sometimes, they will inscribe the name of an enemy general they have defeated as a mark of honor. Apart from Horo samurai and messengers, all others will have back flags tied to their backs.

42. #42Jinbaori

    Keys: war, general, battle, Jinbaori

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    The jinbaori is a garment symbolizing status and rank. It resembles a sleeveless and open-fronted coat, adorned with family crests and patterns. High-ranking samurai or retainers of the daimyo wear the jinbaori during wars, signifying their status and granting them the privilege to participate in military councils.

43. #43Koku

    Keys: Koku, measure, measurement

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    A koku is a unit used to measure economic power, with 1 koku equating to 52.5 kilograms, the amount of rice needed to sustain one adult man for a year. When a fief (stipend) reaches 1,000 koku, the retainer is obligated to mobilize 12 soldiers for their lord during wartime. This obligation scales accordingly with the amount of koku.

44. #44Horo

    Keys: horo samurai, elite, elite samurai, daimyo, horo, cavalry, horos, war

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    A horo is an ornamental accessory worn by elite samurai, typically equipped only by the mounted elite guard of a daimyo during wartime.

    The horo consists of a fabric with intricate patterns, wrapped around a circular bamboo frame, resembling a large, round decoration mounted on the samurai's back. Only the most elite samurai bear the horo, and as they ride, it inflates with the wind, making it highly visible.

    The horo primarily serves as a symbol of status and rank, but it also provides protection against arrows shot from behind.

45. #45Ashigaru

    Keys: soldiers, soldier, war, samurai, army, wars, Ashigaru

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    Ashigaru are an essential component of the army. In peacetime, they serve different high-ranking samurai under the same daimyo as their servants or subjects. During wartime, they are gathered and unified under the daimyo's command.

    A daimyo can quickly expand their army's numbers with ashigaru, but since they are not professional soldiers, the ashigaru units are disbanded after the campaign ends. As a result, the same ashigaru might serve different families in different battles. The discipline of the ashigaru directly impacts their combat effectiveness and the risk of disorder or retreat.

    Some daimyo would order certain individuals to wear back flags without actually participating in the battle. This tactic is used to make their forces appear larger than they are, thereby intimidating the enemy.

46. #46Battle Process

    Keys: skirmish, engagement, battle process, battle, warfare, combat, war, combat methods, samurai, wars

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    At the beginning of an engagement or skirmish, the two armies first exchange volleys of arrows and teppou (matchlock firearms). Following this, masses of ashigaru with long spears clash, using an overhead striking method rather than thrusting. They continue this until one side is exhausted.

    Then, high-ranking samurai enter the fray, seeking out opponents. When they engage, they announce their names, ranks, and allegiances before attacking each other.

47. #47Food

    Keys: breakfast, dinner, sushi, radish, food, vegetables, ramen, lunch, birds, meat, rice, deer, lamb, beef, chicken, pork, millet

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    During the Sengoku period in Japan, extreme poverty meant that typical, refined Japanese foods like sushi and ramen were virtually non-existent. Rice, whether in the form of millet or regular rice, was highly prized. Millet was the staple for the poor, who often had a simple breakfast of millet rice and boiled carrots, a meager and monotonous meal. Some impoverished individuals had never even seen regular rice.

    Even the noble classes did not fare much better. Their breakfast typically consisted of rice, a small fish about two fingers wide, pickled radish, boiled wild vegetables, and miso soup—a modest meal considering rice was a precious commodity used even as currency in Japan. Thus, millet and radishes were the most common foods.

    Despite being an island nation, seafood was rare on the table, accessible only to the wealthy. For most farmers, ensuring a full meal meant relying on millet, radishes, and sometimes foraging wild vegetables in the mountains. Survival often hinged on securing enough food.

    Many farmers, too poor to afford regular meals, managed only two a day: breakfast and lunch. To avoid hunger at night, nearly everyone, from daimyo to their retainers, would retire early.

    Given the scarcity of rice, it was even used as an incentive for recruiting soldiers. Salt, similarly rare, was a luxury even many daimyo hadn't tasted.

    Due to its scarcity, rice became a criterion for recruiting soldiers among daimyo. Salt was also exceedingly rare, with many daimyo never having tasted salted dishes. Meats such as chicken, deer, beef, lamb, and pork—common livestock—rarely appeared on Japanese tables because Buddhism and Shintoism viewed eating meat as a defilement that could lead to hell. Only the lowest classes were less subject to these restrictions, while aquatic products and fish were exempt from this governance.

    During times of war, all available rice within a domain was allocated for soldiers' rations. They would mold rice into portable rice balls, sometimes stuffing them with pickled plums if the family could afford it, or wrapping them in seaweed to keep hands clean.

48. #48Drinks

    Keys: sake, make tea-infused rice, wine, matcha, beverages, Alcohol

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    In Japan, there were almost no beverage choices, with only tea and alcohol available. All Japanese alcohol is rice wine, known as sake, which is very rich and light, with no other types of alcohol.

    During the Warring States period, tea consisted of matcha and loose leaf tea. Matcha is made by adding hot water at the right temperature to matcha powder in a bowl and whisking it with a tea brush. It has a sweet yet bitter taste and a green color.

    Loose leaf tea is brewed from regular tea leaves. A popular practice in Japan is making tea-infused rice, where tea is poured over millet or polished rice and consumed together.

49. #49Snacks

    Keys: Desserts, food, dessert, snacks, snack

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    Desserts and snacks in Japan are mostly related to rice, primarily consisting of bean paste buns, rice cakes, and glutinous rice dumplings. These are common peasant foods available at markets near feudal lords' castles or small roadside shops, and they are not expensive.

    Glutinous rice dumplings are rice-based foods threaded onto bamboo skewers, typically coming in various colors such as green, red, black, and white, with a slight sweetness.

    Another type of dessert is candied chestnuts, which are made from chestnuts and sugar—both of which are extremely scarce, often accessible only to the emperor.

50. #50Sado

    Keys: Sado, matcha

    Enabled · After character · Order 10 · 100%

    Entry settings

    The tea ceremony, or "sado," is a solemn and ritualistic activity in Japan. Every aspect, including movements, types of tea, utensils, and postures, is highly refined, making it a sophisticated practice. The tea used in the ceremony is matcha, and the process emphasizes tranquility, stability, and precision. From the moment tea is prepared until it is consumed, every action is considered part of the ceremony. Many castles and homes have dedicated tea rooms specifically for this purpose, and samurai are not allowed to bring their swords into the tea room.

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