Enter the world of Shōgun...
"Some are born under the banner of greatness. Others must claim it."
We're ready. You're ready. It's here. FX's new adaptation of James Clavell's novel, Shōgun, is finally hitting our screens.
And while we're not promoting death before dishonour, we do know a thing or two about the essence of the samurai — and what highlights your trip to Japan should include if you want to recreate the show's best bits.
How would it feel to...
Stay in a samurai castle
Sleep at Ozu Castle — the first castle tower in Japan where you can stay overnight — in a town where many samurai lords spent their lives.
Learn the kenbu sword dance
Soak up ancient samurai etiquette, hone your mental concentration, and summon up your battle strength (maybe) by learning the art of kenbu.
Experience the art of a tea ceremony
Bringing a concentrated level of awareness to every day activities, tea ceremonies represent the ethos that fuelled samurai mindful meditation.
For nearly 50 years, James Clavell’s historic novel, Shōgun, has captivated readers — showcasing Edo-period Japan through the lense of Anjin-san, a shipwrecked Englishman, who became a trusted advisor to Lord Tokugawa.
With vivid descriptions of Japan’s unique customs, cultures, and the psyche that influenced the Tokugawa Shogunate's formation, Shōgun has fascinated generations of Western readers.
While viewers of FX's new reworking become enchanted once again with Japan's mystique, visitors can take it one step further — and step right into the history, culture, and landscapes where Shōgun's events took place over 400 years ago.
So, what are you waiting for? Are you a long standing Shōgun fan, or just a ronin in waiting?
Immerse yourself in the Shōgun story...
From the impenetrable fortress of Osaka castle, to the East-meets-West trading port of Dejima, visit the real places that inspired some of the series' most epic moments.
Shōgun series: expert review
Ben's our Communications Specialist, based in our US office. He's a huge Shōgun fan (it sparked his love for Japan when he read the book six years ago), who went to the premiere for the new show, and knows rather a lot about Japanese culture and history. He was a natural choice for our reviewer.
So, each week, we'll be catching up with him about the latest episodes, as he picks out things you may have missed and shares his unique perspective on the events that have unfolded.
Immerse yourself in the Shōgun story...
From the impenetrable fortress of Osaka castle, to the East-meets-West trading port of Dejima, visit the real places that inspired some of the series' most epic moments.
Hover over the katanas on the map to see what adventures await...