In 'Samurai Trails: A Chronicle of Wanderings on the Japanese High Road' by Lucian Swift Kirtland, readers are transported to the feudal era of Japan through a vivid exploration of the country's high roads. Kirtland's exquisite prose captures the essence of the Japanese landscape and culture, immersing readers in a world of samurais, temples, and zen gardens. The book is a blend of travelogue, historical account, and personal reflection, offering a unique perspective on Japan's rich history and traditions. Kirtland's attention to detail and lyrical writing style make this book a captivating read for anyone interested in Japanese culture and history. As readers follow the author's journeys on the high roads, they are treated to a compelling narrative that sheds light on a fascinating period in Japan's past. Lucian Swift Kirtland's deep fascination with Japanese history and culture shines through in 'Samurai Trails', making it a must-read for history enthusiasts, travel buffs, and anyone with a love for beautifully crafted storytelling.

Along the Samurai's Route, with its 9 maps and more than 200 ophotographs, invites the reader to go on a journey into the geography and history of Japan. Dare to travel the Land of the Rising Sun with the help of an experienced martial artist who will act as a guide, while recounting the incredible experiences of his journey. Following the life of the famous warrior Miyamoto Musashi, the author will discover the iconic places of samurai culture and its most deeply rooted traditions. This book is a journey back in time where he shares his experiences in sacred places such as temples, shrines, castles, museums, cemeteries, forests, battlefields, and even the climb of mythical Mount Fuji. This inspirational adventure, which started as a dream and took many years to prepare, places the reader, both neophyte and experienced, closer to the culture of this mysterious country.

This biography of the first foreign-born samurai and his journey from Africa to Japan is “a readable, compassionate account of an extraordinary life” (The Washington Post). When Yasuke arrived in Japan in the late 1500s, he had already traveled much of the known world. Kidnapped as a child, he had ended up a servant and bodyguard to the head of the Jesuits in Asia, with whom he traversed India and China learning multiple languages as he went. His arrival in Kyoto, however, literally caused a riot. Most Japanese people had never seen an African man before, and many of them saw him as the embodiment of the black-skinned Buddha. Among those who were drawn to his presence was Lord Nobunaga, head of the most powerful clan in Japan, who made Yasuke a samurai in his court. Soon, he was learning the traditions of Japan’s martial arts and ascending the upper echelons of Japanese society. In the four hundred years since, Yasuke has been known in Japan largely as a legendary, perhaps mythical figure. Now African Samurai presents the never-before-told biography of this unique figure of the sixteenth century, one whose travels between countries and cultures offers a new perspective on race in world history and a vivid portrait of life in medieval Japan. “Fast-paced, action-packed writing. . . . A new and important biography and an incredibly moving study of medieval Japan and solid perspective on its unification. Highly recommended.” —Library Journal (starred review) “Eminently readable. . . . a worthwhile and entertaining work.” —Publishers Weekly “A unique story of a unique man, and yet someone with whom we can all identify.” —Jack Weatherford, New York Times–bestselling author of Genghis Khan

Step back into old Japan with this fascinating travelogue of the famous Kiso Road, an ancient route used by samurai and warlords The Kisoji, which runs through the Kiso Valley in the Japanese Alps, has been in use since at least 701 C.E. In the seventeenth century, it was the route that the daimyo (warlords) used for their biennial trips—along with their samurai and porters—to the new capital of Edo (now Tokyo). The natural beauty of the route is renowned—and famously inspired the landscapes of Hiroshige, as well as the work of many other artists and writers. William Scott Wilson, esteemed translator of samurai philosophy, has walked the road several times and is a delightful and expert guide to this popular tourist destination; he shares its rich history and lore, literary and artistic significance, cuisine and architecture, as well as his own experiences.

Issues for Jan 12, 1888-Jan. 1889 include monthly "Magazine supplement".