Welcome to the chaotic brilliance of Oda Nobunaga - 織田信長 (1534–1582), a Sengoku-period (戦国時代) daimyo (大名) who turned Japan’s fractured landscape into the groundwork for a unified nation. Known as the “Demon King” for his ruthless ambition, Nobunaga didn’t just play the game—he rewrote the rules with blood, steel, and a dash of genius. From a minor lord in Owari (尾張) to a warlord feared across the land, his story is one of unrelenting drive and epic showdowns. Let’s explore his legacy—and bring home some of that Nobunaga swagger with exclusive gear from Samurai Market!
The Rise of a Relentless Visionary
Born in 1534 at Nagoya Castle (名古屋城) in Owari Province (modern-day Aichi - 愛知県), Nobunaga inherited a small domain from his father, Oda Nobuhide (織田信秀). As a young man, he was dubbed the “Fool of Owari” for his eccentric behavior—think wild outfits and skipping etiquette lessons. But when his father died in 1551, Nobunaga grabbed the reins of the Oda clan with flair, famously tossing incense at the funeral altar to signal he’d do things his way. He spent years crushing internal rivals, sharpening his claws for the battles ahead.
"The Battle of Okehazama" by Utagawa Yoshitora
His breakout moment came in 1560 at the Battle of Okehazama (桶狭間の戦い). Outnumbered 10-to-1, Nobunaga ambushed a massive army in a rain-drenched gorge, using a decoy camp and a surprise strike to claim victory. This wasn’t luck—it was strategy, and it put him on the map. From there, he stormed toward Kyoto, capturing it in 1568 and ruling from his lavish Azuchi Castle (安土城) by 1579, a fortress that screamed power and innovation.
A Warlord Ahead of His Time
Oda Nobunaga and his "Tenka Fubu" warrior seal
Nobunaga wasn’t just a fighter—he was a disruptor. He armed his ashigaru - 足軽 (foot soldiers) with matchlock guns, turning traditional samurai warfare on its head. At Nagashino (長篠) in 1575, his firearm squads obliterated cavalry, proving he could adapt and dominate. He also opened free markets in his lands, fueling his war chest and keeping his troops ready to roll. His motto, “Tenka Fubu” - 天下布武 (The Realm Subjected to Military Might), summed up his vibe: resistance was futile, and he’d burn down anything—or anyone—in his path.
A Fiery Finale
The Incident at Honno-ji, depicted by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, is shown here in this 'Kyoto Shijo Night Attack Scene.' It was created in the first year of Genji (1864). The scene portrays Oda Nobunaga, positioned at the far right, being threatened with a spear by enemy soldiers.
(Source: ŌTA MEMORIAL MUSEUM OF ART)
Nobunaga’s reign ended in 1582 at Honno-ji (本能寺) Temple in Kyoto. Betrayed in a sudden uprising, he was trapped with no way out. True to form, he set the temple ablaze and took his own life, bowing out as dramatically as he’d lived. By then, he’d unified half of Japan, leaving a legacy of iron will and bold moves that still captivates us today.
9 Oda Nobunaga-Named Treasures from Samurai Market
Ready to channel Nobunaga’s fearless spirit? Here are 11 products from Samurai Market with “Oda Nobunaga” in the title—perfect for fans of the Demon King! (Note: USA customers, expect a 20-25% import fee due to new policies—details at checkout.)
Japanese Sword Scissors Oda Nobunaga model with Gift Box
- Japanese Sword Scissors - Sengoku Warlords Edition (Oda Nobunaga Model) - Cut with precision using these Nobunaga-themed scissors, blending history with everyday flair.
- KATANA Kitchen Knife: Oda Nobunaga Model - Conquer your kitchen with this stainless steel blade, inspired by Nobunaga’s cutting-edge legacy.
- Deluxe Iaito: Oda Nobunaga (Heshikeri) - Practice Iaido (居合刀) with this unsharpened zinc alloy blade, a nod to Nobunaga’s famed Heshikiri (へし切) sword.
- A-Type: Oda Nobunaga Armor Replica - Display Nobunaga’s battlefield style with this detailed miniature armor set.
- B-Type: Oda Nobunaga Armor Replica - Another stunning armor piece capturing Nobunaga’s iconic presence.
- Shinobiya Original T-Shirt: Oda Nobunaga - Wear his legacy proud with this 100% cotton tee, perfect for casual samurai vibes.
- Shinobiya Original T-Shirt: Oda Nobunaga CLEARANCE USA - A discounted version of the Nobunaga tee, exclusive for USA fans.
- Silk Hand Fan: Oda Nobunaga - Stay cool with this elegant fan featuring Nobunaga’s traditional design.
- Japanese Sword Scissors: Oda Nobunaga Model with Gift Box - Elevate your cutting game with these stylish, stainless steel scissors, embodying the precision and power of Oda Nobunaga, Japan’s iconic unifier.
Nobunaga’s Enduring Fire
Oda Nobunaga didn’t just fight wars—he forged a new Japan with grit and vision. His story inspires us to push limits and seize the day, Demon King-style. Swing by Samurai Market to grab these Nobunaga-named treasures and keep his fierce spirit alive—because who wouldn’t want a slice of that legacy?