Japanese Fighting Heroes: Warriors, Samurai and Ronins
About
From the demon-killing Minamoto no Yorimitsu to the immortal poet Ono no Komachi, find out about the fascinating world of Japanese warriors and folk-heroes. Japanese mythology is filled with stories of larger-than-life characters that shaped the landscape of Japan. They are the folk heroes who slayed monsters, fought in epic battles and reflected the most complicated emotions of the people who created them.
Through a mix of essays, short stories and anecdotes, Japanese Fighting Heroes follows the lives of samurai, warriors, outliers and iconoclasts who forged their own paths. Legendary fighters like the demon-killing Minamoto no Yorimitsu, philosophising samurai Miyamoto Musashi, and the One-Eyed Dragon Date Masamune. Creative heroes like the father of Japanese short stories Ryunosuke Akutagawa, the immortal poet Ono no Komachi, the hilarious Sei Shonagon and her insight into human nature. Trailblazers who broke down barriers like the feminist Hiratsuka Raicho, the statesman Fukuzawa Yukichi, the photographic genius Hiroshi Hamaya.
These Japanese folk heroes led fascinating lives that provide insight into our own through the principles and practices they lived by. They struggled with universal ideals of honor, duty, courage and kindness, helping them transcend their culture. Whether you’re looking to learn about Japanese history, fall down a philosophy rabbit hole or pick up new mental health habits, these heroes can teach us timeless lessons. Japanese Fighting Heroes captures the essence of what it means to be human in any culture.
Praise for this book
"For the reader with a general interest, [Jamie Ryder] has managed to unwrap a little an intriguing, complex and fascinating culture and quite obviously relishes the subject matter to the extent that the chapters feel like delightfully prepared beckoning treats which may potentially open a gateway to a further, more in-depth, exploration."
"I wasn't sure I would like this book as I suspected it might be a bit too niche. A lot has been written about the way of the samurai etc, and with some notable exceptions, often not of the greatest quality. Jamie's book flows really well. It is full of fascinating insights into Japan and its history and characters. The title is misleading in that the book features many more characters than samurai warriors, enthralling as they may be.
There is a wonderful, fascinating chapter on Akira Kurosawa. Scientists, authors, actors, a photographer, designers all feature and Jamie brings them to life in a thoughtful easy-to-read manner.
If you're planning a trip to Japan (or not for that matter) this is close to essential reading. It really gets under the skin of Japanese culture."
"If you’re interested in the folklore of Japan, it’s culture, history, or Japanese mythology, Japanese Fighting Heroes is a must-read. But even if you’re not a Japan enthusiast, there’s still plenty to gain from this book. The stories are engaging, the lessons are timeless, and the writing is accessible without being simplistic. Ryder’s ability to connect ancient myths to modern life makes this book relevant for everyone.
For me, the real value of this book lies in its ability to inspire reflection. Each chapter left me thinking about how the values embodied by these heroes can be applied to my own life. Whether it’s Musashi’s discipline, Tomoe Gozen’s resilience, or Sen no Rikyu’s appreciation for simplicity, there’s a lesson in this book for everyone."