How to Become a Samurai

A Samurai is a Japanese warrior who adheres to a strict code of honor and pledges fealty to his noble lord. Today, the formal role of Samurai has disappeared since the Japanese feudal system is defunct, but the values and traditions still pertain. Follow these steps to become a modern day Samurai.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Learn bushido, or the warrior's code. Bushido is the most central element to being a samurai. It governs the samurai's way of life, fighting and daily life. Bushido teaches ethical conduct in all situations, humility and ultimate respect for the samurai's master.

2. Understand the history of the samurai. The samurai is a part of the Japanese cultural tradition that evolved over hundreds of years. Especially important are the Heian Period, when the samurai grew in strength and prominence, the Azuchi-Momoyama Period, when a caste system was implemented, and the Edo Period, during which the caste system was crystallized and eventually abolished.

3. Become a weapons expert. The samurai were masters of a number of weapons, including bows and arrows, spears and guns. The most sacred weapon, though, was the sword. Becoming an expert Japanese swordsman today is more about learning form and discipline, so pursue this study with a master.

4. Conduct yourself nobly. The samurai's overarching purpose was to support the system of values that his lord represented. The most critical part of being a samurai, therefore, is to protect the values that you pledge to uphold as a samurai and to do the right thing, despite personal risk, whenever possible.