Step into the World of Miura Anjin on Japan’s Izu Peninsula
For fans of the Emmy-winning drama Shogun, Japan’s Izu Peninsula offers a unique opportunity to step into the real-life story that inspired the character Anjin-san. While the show captivated viewers with its tale of samurai-era Japan, the true story of Miura Anjin—the first Western samurai—is deeply rooted here in Ito. Join us as we explore Miura Anjin’s remarkable journey, his connection to Izu, and how you can experience this legacy firsthand on our SHOGUN & Samurai Tour.
The Real Anjin-san: From English Navigator to Miura Anjin, the Samurai
In the year 1600, William Adams, an English navigator, arrived in Japan and became one of the first Westerners granted the title of samurai. Known in Japan as Miura Anjin, he gained the trust of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who awarded him samurai status and a place to call home. Adams adapted to Japanese life, learning the language and embracing samurai customs. Today, the city of Ito in Izu celebrates Miura Anjin’s story more than anywhere else in Japan, making it a must-visit destination for fans of Shogun and Japanese history alike.
Explore the World of Miura Anjin: Walk the same coastlines and visit the historical sites in Ito where Miura Anjin’s legacy lives on. The Izu Peninsula is where history and the Shogun series meet.
Experience the Real History: SHOGUN & Samurai Tour
To fully appreciate the lives of Miura Anjin and Japan’s first Shogun, join us on the SHOGUN & Samurai Tour. This tour covers the beginning and end of Japan’s samurai era, exploring the stories of Minamoto Yoritomo, the first Shogun, and Miura Anjin, Japan’s first foreign-born samurai. Though separated by centuries, Yoritomo and Anjin’s legacies come together in the scenic city of Ito, where you’ll discover how they helped shape Japan’s history.
Miura Anjin’s Legacy in Ito: Learn the story of William Adams, the English navigator who became a samurai. On this tour, you’ll visit key sites connected to Anjin’s story, hearing tales of his relationship with Tokugawa Ieyasu and his unique integration into Japanese society.
Otonashi Shrine: Begin the journey at Otonashi Shrine, a site dedicated to Minamoto Yoritomo. This historic shrine honors Yoritomo’s rise to power as the first Shogun, and walking these grounds connects you to the beginning of Japan’s samurai legacy.
Tokaikan: During the lives of both Yoritomo and Miura Anjin, Ito was renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Our tour concludes at Tokaikan, a historic ryokan that captures the essence of Japanese luxury from the Taisho Era and represents Ito’s longstanding cultural heritage.
Explore the stories of Japan’s first Shogun and first foreign samurai: Step into the past with our SHOGUN & Samurai Tour, an unforgettable journey through Izu’s samurai history.
Shogun vs. Reality: Anjin-san’s True Journey Through Japan
Shogun brought Miura Anjin’s story to life on screen, but exploring the Izu Peninsula uncovers the true history behind the character. While the series dramatized Anjin’s life, Izu’s sites allow you to experience the authentic story. Learn about the real Miura Anjin, the key differences between history and Shogun, and the impact of both Minamoto Yoritomo and William Adams on Japan’s samurai era.
Our SHOGUN & Samurai Tour dives into these historical details, blending the narrative of the Shogun series with Izu’s true samurai heritage. Ideal for history enthusiasts and Shogun fans alike, this tour combines the fictional world of Shogun with real samurai history.
Why Izu is the Ideal Destination for Shogun Fans and Samurai History Buffs
The Izu Peninsula offers more than just historical tales; its scenic coastlines, hot springs, and vibrant cultural landmarks make it a perfect getaway for Shogun fans and history lovers. On our guided tours, you’ll uncover hidden gems, from ancient shrines to quiet coastal trails, while learning the fascinating stories that shaped Japan’s past.
Plan Your Journey to Japan’s Samurai Era
Ready to walk in the footsteps of Miura Anjin and experience the world of Shogun? Join our SHOGUN & Samurai Tour for an unforgettable journey through Japan’s samurai legacy.