Glossary: Miyamoto Musashi

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Miyamoto Musashi (宮本武蔵)
1584 - 1645

Also known as: Takezou Shinmen, Bennosuke Miyamoto, Niten Douraku

One of the most famous samurai in Japanese history, who became legendary for his swordsmanship. He fought and won over 60 duels, one of which was with the prominent swordsman Kojirou Sasaki at the age of 28. Kojirou was Musashi's long-time rival and considered his most challenging opponent. A duel was arranged between them for April 13, 1612, to which Musashi arrived more than three hours late in order to psychologically unbalance his opponent. When he finally showed up, Kojirou famously said, "I've been waiting for you, Musashi!" Musashi won the duel with an oversized wooden sword.