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Edo Period Police: Brutality in the Name of Peace

2025-04-23

After Tokugawa Ieyasu unified Japan in the early 17th century, Edo (modern-day Tokyo) became the new capital, ending centuries of civil war. However, crime persisted. The government established a police force composed mainly of samurai, overseen by magistrates and employing various ranks of officers, including the doshin (constables) and yoriki (higher-ranking samurai). While the yoriki enjoyed higher status and better pay, the doshin handled the brunt of daily policing, sometimes resorting to brutal methods like eye-crushing irritants and torture to extract confessions. This system, while effective in maintaining order in a city of over a million, highlights the harsh realities and contradictions of Edo-era justice.

(www.tokyoweekender.com)

History Edo Period Police Torture

The Oda Who Lost, and Lost, and Lost…and Won?

2025-04-17

While Oda Nobunaga struck fear into the hearts of feudal lords during Japan's Sengoku period, another Oda, Ujiharu, became infamous as the weakest daimyo. Ruling strategically important Oda Castle, he lost and regained it nine times. Despite consistently poor military decisions—often ignoring sound advice—his unwavering refusal to accept defeat earned him the moniker “The Phoenix.” His seemingly reckless charges might have been an attempt to prevent sieges and protect his people. Exceptional diplomatic skills and deep loyalty from his retainers and farmers also marked his reign. Ultimately, his refusal to swear allegiance to Toyotomi Hideyoshi cost him his lands, but he survived—a fate arguably better than that of his more famous namesake, Oda Nobunaga.

(www.tokyoweekender.com)

Misc Sengoku period Oda Ujiharu

Japanese Town's 'Ojisan' TCG Bridges Generations

2025-04-07

In Kawara, Fukuoka Prefecture, children are captivated by a unique trading card game (TCG) featuring local middle-aged and older men ('ojisan'). Instead of anime characters, the cards showcase real community members, their skills and contributions forming the card's stats. Created to bridge the gap between generations, the game unexpectedly boosted community involvement. Children actively participate in local events to collect cards and even ask the 'ojisan' on the cards for autographs. Gameplay focuses on skills and real-world contributions rather than simple numerical comparisons; card rarity reflects the 'ojisan's' volunteer work. This handmade TCG not only connects generations but also revitalizes the community.

(www.tokyoweekender.com)

Misc trading card game generational connection

Squid Game's Secret Weapon: The Japanese Film Battle Royale

2025-01-10

Netflix's hit series, Squid Game, owes a debt of gratitude to a lesser-known Japanese cult classic: Battle Royale. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk openly cites the film as inspiration. Based on Koushun Takami's 1999 novel, Battle Royale depicts a dystopian scenario where middle schoolers are forced to fight to the death by a totalitarian government. Its brutal game mechanics and unflinching portrayal of societal darkness heavily influenced Squid Game. The article delves into Battle Royale's origins, exploring the author's dream-inspired concept and director Kinji Fukasaku's infusion of his WWII experiences, transforming the film from a mere bloodbath into a profound social commentary.

(www.tokyoweekender.com)

Game Squid Game Battle Royale Japanese Cinema