The Most Famous Samurai, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the Samurai you think is the most famous!

Updated on Apr 30, 2024 07:13

In the tapestry of history, the tales of Samurai warriors stand out for their blend of honor, skill, and valor. Determining who the most celebrated of these warriors are offers not just insight into individual legacies but also reflects broader historical patterns and cultural values. Such rankings help preserve the rich narratives of these figures, ensuring their stories continue to inspire. By participating in voting for the most renowned Samurai, individuals contribute to a communal understanding of historical significance. Each vote not only acknowledges personal heroes but also helps educate others about influential figures in Samurai history. This dynamic record fosters a deeper connection with the past and a greater appreciation for the virtues exemplified by these legendary warriors.

Who Is the Most Famous Samurai?

1

52
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Miyamoto Musashi

Miyamoto Musashi

He is known as the greatest swordsman in Japanese history, having never lost a duel. His book, The Book of Five Rings, is still studied today for its teachings on strategy and philosophy.
Miyamoto Musashi is a legendary samurai warrior and one of the most famous swordsmen in Japanese history. He is often referred to as Japan's greatest swordsman and has become a symbol of the samurai culture. Musashi is renowned for his exceptional skill in swordsmanship and his unorthodox fighting style.

Birthdate: 1584

Deathdate: 1645

Famous Battles: Battle of Sekigahara, Battle of Osaka

Fighting Style: Niten Ichi-ryū (Two-Sword Style)

Written Works: The Book of Five Rings
Miyamoto Musashi in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous duelist
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous swordsman
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Ronin
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular Warrior
2

26
votes
狩野宗秀 (Kanō Sōshū, 1551 - 1601) · Public domain

Oda Nobunaga

One of the most powerful and influential daimyo (feudal lords) in Japanese history. He was a master strategist and helped bring an end to the Sengoku period of civil war.
Oda Nobunaga in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Ronin
3

20
votes

Kanō Tan'yū · Public domain

Tokugawa Ieyasu

The founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years. He was a skilled warrior and politician, and is credited with bringing stability to Japan after centuries of war.
4

17
votes
Unknown · Public domain

Takeda Shingen

A powerful daimyo known for his military prowess and strategic abilities. He is famous for his rivalry with Uesugi Kenshin, another famous daimyo of the Sengoku period.
Takeda Shingen in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous Ronin
5

15
votes
Tosa Mitsusada · Public domain

Date Masamune

A daimyo known for his military achievements and cultural patronage. He is often depicted wearing an eye patch, as he lost an eye in battle.
Date Masamune in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Ronin
6

12
votes

Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Uesugi Kenshin

Another powerful daimyo known for his military prowess and strategic abilities. He was a devout Buddhist and is said to have been a skilled calligrapher.
7

15
votes

Unknown · Public domain

Honda Tadakatsu

A samurai who served under Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was known as "the warrior who surpassed death" due to his many battles and victories.
8

6
votes

Yagyū Jūbei

A famous swordsman who served the Tokugawa shogunate. He is said to have been a master of several different martial arts, including swordsmanship, archery, and spearmanship.
9

8
votes

Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Sanada Yukimura

A samurai known for his bravery and skill in battle. He served under Toyotomi Hideyoshi and later fought against Tokugawa Ieyasu in the Battle of Osaka.
10

8
votes

不明。 · Public domain

Shimazu Yoshihiro

A daimyo known for his military achievements and cultural patronage. He is famous for his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara, which helped secure Tokugawa Ieyasu's position as shogun.

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Ranking factors for famous Samurai

Historical significance

The impact a samurai had on Japanese history and the significance of their actions, such as their involvement in major battles, political influence, or reforms.
Skill and prowess in combat

The samurai's martial abilities and their reputation as a skilled warrior. This includes their success in combat, mastery of various martial arts, and duels.
Loyalty and service

The samurai's loyalty to their lord and their dedication to the Bushido code, which emphasizes honor, integrity, and self-sacrifice. This includes showcasing their loyalty through various acts, such as avenging their lord's death or sacrificing themselves for their cause.
Cultural impact and popular representation

The samurai's influence on Japanese culture, literature, and art, as well as their portrayal in popular media such as films, books, and theater. This factor takes into account their enduring popularity and legacy in modern times.
Legacy and recognition

The samurai's long-term impact and posthumous recognition, such as monuments, memorials, and recognition in historical records or literature.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Samurai. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Samurai is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1377 views
173 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Samurai once every 24 hours. The rank of each Samurai is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous samurai

Samurai, the legendary warriors of Japan, have always fascinated people around the world with their skills, discipline, and honor. These warriors were part of a military class that emerged during the 12th century and continued until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. The samurai were known for their distinctive armor, weapons, and fighting techniques, which made them feared and respected on the battlefield. Throughout history, many famous samurai have left their mark on Japan and the world. From the legendary Musashi Miyamoto to the famous Oda Nobunaga, samurai have become synonymous with courage, loyalty, and martial prowess. But who is the most famous samurai of all time? That's a question that has been debated by historians, scholars, and enthusiasts for years. In this article, we'll explore some of the most famous samurai in history and try to determine who deserves the title of the most famous samurai of all time. From their origins to their greatest achievements, we'll delve into the fascinating world of the samurai and discover what made them so legendary.