
Hi,guys.I will write about what “Samurai” is today.Since Samurai is usually used as one of the characters in Anime or Manga,you may have heard about it somewhere in your life.When I ask the question to foreigners “what is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Japan?”,they usually answer “SAMURAI””Cherry blossoms””Mt.Fuji” and so on.So let me tell you about samurai today.
①What is Samurai ?
Samurai have existed as Japanese professional warriors holding their own swords from 794-1876(The HEIAN~MEIJI).They were basically serving feudal lords or people of their higher position to protect them all the time. In order to be a Samurai,they had to learn Military arts and the policy of “BUSHIDO” that means the ethical code of the Samurai emphasizing absolute loyalty to their masters.Especially the BUSHIDO is really important for them,but it’s contents depend on the feudal lords they serve.In general,the following policies are in common for any Samurai.
・Take responsibility for your behaviors
・Sacrifice your life for your master
・Be prepare to give up your life once you made a mistake
Some say that above policies such as staking their own life were related to “SEPPUKU”and”HARAKIRI” that mean suicide by ritual disembowelment practiced by the Japanese samurai to avoid a disgraceful execution.
*Let me introduce the famous proverbs Samurai always used
・A samurai’s word is as solid as a rock
・A noble-minded person will never lose his or her pride even in poor circumstances.

②What is Japanese sword?
Japaneses swords are famous and known throughout the world for their sharpness and strength.In the Edo-period,swords were believed that is the soul of the Samurai,who wished to possess those of the highest quality.Therefore,techniques to produce blades of superior quality were pursed and developed at that time.Blades of Japanese swords exhibit beautiful tempered patterns.They have longer hilts than Western swords and a metal piece called a TSUBA,or a sword guards,at the base of the hilt to knock away an opponent’s sword and to protect the owner’s hands.

③Do Samurai still exist in Japan?
I don’t think they still exist in Japan due to developed weapons right now.But I know the place called Samurai Dojo that you are able to learn how to use Japanese swords or study actual their histories in Tokyo. If you are interested in it ,you should visit. https://samurai-kamui.com/dojo/?lang=en
Thank you for taking your time and read this article.