Michael Smathers

The shinobi are legendary in Japanese history for their skills in subterfuge and stealth; one name, in particular, rings out when discussing ninjas: Hattori Hanzo.

The katana and longsword have been the subject of endless debates about which sword is “better.” Let’s break the question down more carefully.

Japan has been Buddhist throughout most of its history, but before Buddhism there was Shinto. Merging these beliefs created Shinbutsu-Shugo, the religion of Medieval Japan.

The mythologies of the world each have their own creation myths. These are the foundational myths of Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan.

Women had more power in feudal Japan than one might expect. These warrior women took part in history-defining events on the battlefield and off.

HEMA is often used as an example of experimental archaeology. Practicing with the guidance of old manuscripts, modern scholars have recreated lost sword art.

Miyamoto Musashi is one of the most famous Japanese swordsmen of all time because of his unconventional approach to martial arts. Here we explore his work and mindset.

Countless stories feature shinobi, the saboteurs, spies, and assassins of ancient Japan. They embellished their own legends, so let’s separate fact from fiction.