Welcome to the Samurai Archives, an on-going effort to create an extensive database on the Internet for all interested in this fascinating piece of human history. This page deals with the military aspects of Old Japan, and as such devotes considerable space to the warriors themselves, along with descriptions of battles and various other 'militant' topics. Yet, given Japan's dynamic history, we could hardly confine ourselves to such a narrow view without diminishing the depth and sheer pagentry of our subject . The heart of the page will continue to be the warriors, but with every effort being made to round out our picture.
   We have and will continue to make every effort to make sure that the information we post is accurate - and will not hesitate to change any mistakes that come to our attention. Where possible, Japanese sources are used - and even these we endeavor to double-check. Nonetheless, inevitably mistakes will be made or reprinted - readers are heartily encouraged to let us know! Moreover, we would be delighted to answer any questions or just hear from fellow lovers of Japanese history. We do not view history or learning as something to be jealously guarded but rather as a gift to be shared with all who seek it.

Special Thanks: Amako Mitsuo, Rick Noelle