Colorful Past
Onna-musha
Onna-musha were formidable female warriors who fought alongside samurai and other combatants in Japan.
One notable Onna-musha from the Heian period (12th century) was Tomoe Gozen, a prominent ally of the Minamoto clan. Tomoe famously commanded three hundred samurai at the Battle of Genpei, where she achieved a remarkable victory against two thousand warriors.
Tomoe's legend is celebrated in the epic The Tale of the Heike, which chronicles the struggle between the Taira and Minamoto clans during the Genpei War (1180–1185). In this epic, she is portrayed as a "remarkably strong archer and swordswoman, a warrior worth a thousand, ready to confront a demon or a god, whether mounted or on foot. She handled unbroken horses with superb skill, rode down perilous descents unscathed, and was always sent out as Yoshinaka's first captain. Equipped with strong armor, an oversized sword, and a mighty bow, she performed more deeds of valor than any of his other warriors."
Hangaku Gozen, a rival of Tomoe, was a notable ally of the competing Taira clan. Renowned for her leadership and bravery, Hangaku led samurai into numerous battles wielding the naginata and was also a distinguished archer.
Note: Gozen was not a name but a title similar to "Lady."
Non-native retainers
During the tenth to nineteenth centuries, it may be surprising to learn that non-native individuals served as retainers and samurai under various daimyo and shogun, given Japan's geographic isolation. Both played crucial role in providing administrative and military services to their lords.
These non-native retainers and samurai hailed from various parts of the world, including China, Korea, Africa, and Europe. One notable example is Yasuke, a retainer of Lord Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke was of African origin, most likely from Mozambique, though some scholars suggest other possible origins, including Ethiopia or Sudan. Lord Nobunaga appointed Yasuke as his Weapons Bearer, and in 1582, Yasuke played a key role in defending his lord against attacking forces.
Yamabushi
Japanese ascetic hermits who adhere to a blend of Shinto, Taoist, and Buddhist practices. These ascetics live a rigorous lifestyle focused on spiritual growth through severe physical and mental disciplines in the mountains. Typically, they are identified by their white robes, head coverings, and conch shells, which are used both in rituals and for long-distance communication.
While primarily known as spiritual practitioners, Yamabushi also played a significant role as warrior monks (sōhei) in medieval Japan. They were involved in various military conflicts, leveraging their knowledge of the terrain and guerrilla tactics to blend spiritual practices with martial prowess.
One renowned Yamabushi was Saitō Musashibō Benkei (1155-1189), a legendary warrior monk who served the famous samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Known for his strength and unwavering loyalty, Benkei's efforts during the siege of Hiraizumi were crucial in delaying the attacking forces and protecting his lord.
Yamabushi still exist today. Although their traditional practices and roles have evolved, their presence endures, particularly within Japan’s spiritual and cultural contexts. The continuity of Yamabushi traditions into the modern era highlights the resilience and adaptability of this ancient practice, addressing contemporary spiritual and psychological needs.