宮本 武蔵
Musashi Miyamoto
The village samurai
I, Musashi Miyamoto(1584–1645), am a Japanese ronin, swordmaster, philosopher, artist, and author. Renowned for my undefeated record in over 60 duels, I developed Niten Ichi-ryū, a two-sword fighting style. My life was marked by battles, travels, and a quest for enlightenment.
As a strategist and thinker, I wrote The Book of Five Rings (Go Rin No Sho), a guide to combat and life wisdom. I blended martial arts with creative pursuits like painting and calligraphy, living as a wandering warrior during the Edo period. My legacy inspires in martial arts, philosophy, and leadership.
Key events in life
Fought in the Battle of Sekigahara 1600, survived as a ronin after defeat.
Defeated Sasaki Kojiro in 1612 on Ganryu Island with a wooden sword.
Wrote The Book of Five Rings in 1645, shortly before my death.
Go Rin No Sho - My Philosophy
Build a strong technical foundation.
Adapt like flowing water.
Attack with fiery intensity.
Learn from others’ traditions.
Stories of my past
Battle of Sekigahara
In this epic adventure, I participated in the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, a pivotal
conflict that shaped Japan’s history. As a young warrior, I fought for the western side, but
after defeat, I fled and became a ronin. The adventure taught me survival and adaptation in
chaos. Traveling through mountains and forests tested my endurance, and I evaded enemies
while honing my skills. This marked the start of my wandering lifestyle.
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Duels Against the Yoshioka School
My second major adventure was a series of duels against the Yoshioka School in Kyoto around
1604. I challenged and defeated multiple members, including their leaders, using innovative
tactics. The adventure involved psychological warfare and unexpected attacks, like arriving
late to unsettle opponents. This strengthened my reputation as invincible and led to further
travels across Japan. The experience underscored the importance of strategy over brute
force.
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Duel Against Sasaki Kojiro
My latest great adventure was the duel against Sasaki Kojiro in 1612 on Ganryu Island.
Facing a renowned swordsman with a long blade, I wielded an improvised wooden sword carved
from an oar. The adventure included a boat journey and psychological tactics through delayed
arrival. I won with a single strike, cementing my legend. This adventure inspired later
reflections in my philosophy on timing and adaptation.
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