Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

 © Fighting Hedgehog 2022
All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without permission from the
author, except as permitted by U.S. law.

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Table of Contents
Introduction................................................ 5 5.4 Reconnaissance in Force............................ 60
1.1 How to use this book.................................. 6 5.41 Scenario Setup............................................. 60

5.42 Special rules, find the weak spot.................. 60

New Rules................................................... 9
2.1 Assassins (New Character).......................... 9 5.43 Victory conditions....................................... 60

2.3 Determining force fate points,

6. Armies of the Sengoku Period............... 63
new options.................................................... 12
6.1 Building your Warband............................. 63
2.3.1 The Tea Ceremony..................................... 12
6.1.1 Character models........................................ 63
2.3.2 Nembutsu Chant........................................ 13
6.12 Warband Options........................................ 65

3. Soldiers and War Gear............................15 6.2 Allied contingents..................................... 67

3.1 Weapon Characteristics............................. 15 6.3 The Samurai Clans.................................... 69
Representing Melee Weapons............................. 15 6.3.1 SHIMAZU................................................... 70
3.1.1 Melee Weapons........................................... 15 6.3.2 OTOMO..................................................... 72
3.1.2 Missile Weapons......................................... 18 6.3.3 CHOSOKABE............................................. 74
3.2 Armor and other equipment..................... 23 6.3.4 MORI......................................................... 76
3.3 Traits.......................................................... 25 6.3.5 ODA/TOYOTOMI/TOKUGAWA.............. 78
3.3.1 Martial Traits............................................... 25
6.3.6 TAKEDA..................................................... 80
3.3.2 Disposition Traits........................................40
6.3.7 UESUGI...................................................... 82
3.3.3 Physical Traits.............................................. 43
6.3.8 HOJO.........................................................84

4. Other tools of War..................................45 6.3.9 DATE.......................................................... 86

4.1 Light Cannon............................................. 45 6.4 Other Factions.......................................... 89
4.2 Hwacha..................................................... 48 6.4.1 IKKO IKKI................................................... 90

6.4.2 IGA WARRIORS......................................... 92

5. Pickup Game Scenarios..........................53
New Scenarios..................................................... 53 6.4.3 WAKO/BANDITS....................................... 94

5.1 Capture the envoy..................................... 54 6.4.4 JOSEON KOREANS................................... 96

5.11 Scenario Setup.............................................. 54 6.4.5 MING CHINESE......................................... 98
5.12 Special Rules, the envoy............................... 54
7. Sengoku Jidai, the time
5.13 Victory conditions........................................ 55
of the warring states.................................101
5.2 River Crossing........................................... 56 7.1 The Onin war.......................................... 101
5.21 Scenario Setup............................................. 56
7.2 The war in the west................................. 102
5.22 Special Rules, searching for fords................. 56
7.3 The Imjin War......................................... 108
5.23 Victory conditions....................................... 56
7.4 The war in the East...................................110
5.3 Break through enemy lines....................... 58
5.21 Scenario Setup............................................. 58 8. Appendix..............................................165
8.1 Weapons Tables....................................... 165
5.22 Victory conditions....................................... 58
8.2 Point System........................................... 166

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 1

Introduction
Welcome CLASH of Katanas! this book, where he takes us through the events
This companion to our award-winning set of from the start of the Onin War in 1467 all the way
rules, CLASH of Spears, will allow you to take to the final days of Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1616.
your games of CLASH to the time of the warring This is unprecedented work by Terje, and we
states in feudal Japan. would recommend the reader to dedicate time
As you will see, all the rules from the core book to this material to learn about the times of the
CLASH of Spears still apply and in fact you need a waring states.
copy of the core book to play CLASH of Katanas. To expand your knowledge of the period
This book expands the core rules by providing beyond what you find in this book, Terje’s prior
new traits, equipment, and rules to represent the books are a fantastic resource.
time of the Samurai and the Ashigaru. Finally, although the Sengoku period covers
To bring this book to you we have worked over a hundred years of Japanese history, you
extensively with many of the resources available will see that we have concentrated in represent-
to most wargamers. There is in fact an extensive ing the style of warfare that was predominant
amount of written material on the period by on the second half of the period after the intro-
many authors that is easily accessible. We have duction of firearms around the mid sixteenth
also relied on the fantastic work done by previ- century.
ous rules authors such as the amazing work done We believe that the period between 1550 and
by Brian Bradford in Killer Katanas and many 1600 allows us to find a good degree of differen-
others. We recognize that, in a way, we are stand- tiation among the main clans, thus providing for
ing on the shoulders of giants. a more colorful depiction of the period.
To take the work further and bring you new We have also chosen to include the Korean
material, we have been lucky to convince Terje and Chinese defenders during the attempted
Solom, an undisputed eminence in the field, to Samurai invasion known as the Imjin war.
join us. Having followed his work over the years We hope that you will have as much fun play-
and read all his books, working with him in this ing CLASH of Katanas as we have had developing
project has been a dream come true. the rules and playing it ourselves.
We consulted with him extensively on aspects This was the final set of rules that we were able
of Japanese warfare, sometimes asking him to to develop together with our father before his
make the leap of faith that is needed when try- passing and as such it holds a very special place
ing to represent history in a wargame. in our hearts.
We also asked him to write for us the great his-
torical background that you will find at the end of

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 1.1 How to use this book
Would you like to know more?
You will need a copy of our core rules CLASH of Throughout the book you will encounter
Spears to use CLASH of Katanas. However, you QR codes that will take you to a selection of
will see that although you will need to consult videos of content creators in YouTube that
the core rule book for any core rules issues, all have taken the time to explore the history
the required traits and special rules for equip- of Sengoku Japan.
ment and armor are included in this book. This content is publicly available and
This is why some traits from the core book it has no direct affiliation to Fighting
might be repeated here so that once you have Hedgehog, with the exception of the
learned the core rules this supplement will be history of the Samurai clans that we have
all you need for most of your Katanas games. done in partnership with The Shogunate, a
In this book you will find new weapons and fantastic dedicated content creator in this
equipment, new traits, new special troop types, field.
new tools of war, new characters and all the Make sure you explore your
required army lists. videos to learn more about
In addition, you will find new additional sce- the period and the key players
narios that can be combined with the original of the fascinating time of the
scenarios in the book to give you up to ten dif- warring states. LEARN
MORE
ferent variants for your pick up games.
Although the lists in this book have not been
tested for balance against ahistorical opponents
from other supplements for CLASH of Spears,
the point system and design philosophy applied
are consistent. This means that from a game
mechanics point of view you should be able
to do ahistorical games if you wish to do it.
Francisco will just close his eyes and pretend it
is not happening.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 2

New Rules

2.1 Assassins (New Character)

Any force can hire up to one assassin. The fol-
lowing rules apply to these special characters.
The army list indicates if both assassin
options are available to your force or if only
the lower level assassin is available. The assas-
sin cannot be the only character in the force,
another character is needed to lead the troops
to battle.
EXAMPLE:
Even when using the rules for allies and
Here you see three “tokens” represented by the innocent
including an allied warband, only up to one farmers. However, one of them indicates underneath
assassin can be included in the entire force. the model’s base that it is the real assassin.

Deployment
At the start of the engagement phase, the assassin At any point just before selecting the next
is deployed on the table through his own deploy- action, the player can reveal the assassin char-
ment counter, and for each assassin deployed the acter replacing the true counter with the model
player deploys two additional scout counters. and removing the scout counters still on the
During the engagement phase treat these table. At that point the assassin acts normally
counters in the same way as any others, however and can choose any actions.
when you need to replace the counters with During the activation in which an assassin has
the corresponding units the player chooses not been revealed by the owning player, all reaction
to reveal three counters, one must be the true attempts by any enemies will suffer a -1 modifier
assassin counter and two others will be any scout to the dice roll.
counters chosen. Of course, the enemy player will An assassin can also be revealed by enemy
not know which counter is which. These counters troops. If at any point any of the counters still
will start the game with no fatigue. on the table are in the open, within 8” of an
Each turn the player can select the counters to enemy unit/character and the counter is the
activate them at the same time without a need closest enemy to that unit or character then
to spend any command points. The counters can the counter is revealed. Either remove it if it is a
only execute move actions, they move 4” and nev- scout or place the assassin. In addition, any time
er gain fatigue for any move actions they do.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 an enemy model ends within 4” of a counter Fields of Blood, simply deploy three tokens,
immediately reveal the counter and replace or one representing the assassin and two dummy
remove as before. Note that in this case since tokens within your deployment zone after all
the assassin is revealed during the enemy acti- troops are deployed. If both sides have assas-
vation phase the assassin will not be able to sins, the player that deployed the first unit
get the -1 reaction modifier against the enemy places their tokens first. After that follow the
next time it activates. same rules as above once the game starts.
The counters can never be attacked through Assassins can always choose to attack
melee or ranged attacks, they must be enemy characters, even if they are not the
revealed first. closest enemy. Assassins can never attach to
If using the alternative deployment rules in units.

SHINOBI CBT RNG GT SAVE EQUIPMENT TRAITS PTS

independent, yoji-gakure,
Master Assassin 3 5 3 7 Additional Hand Weapon deadly strike, off-hand parry, attacks(3) 89
wounds(2)

independent, yoji-gakure,
Assassin 3 5 3 7 Additional Hand Weapon 59
deadly strike, off-hand parry, attacks(2)

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 2.2 Tsukaiban (Messengers)
Samurai armies relied heavily on messengers
known as Tsukaiban. Careful attention was paid
to selecting the best samurai to act as Tsukaiban
knowing that victory or defeat often hinged on
the ability of the Daimyo to relay his commands
effectively to his generals.
Tsukaiban should be represented by a mount-
ed samurai. It was very characteristic for the
Tsukaiban to wear a “horo” to the battlefield. A
type of characteristic “inflatable” balloon on
their back, but some of them like those belong-
ing to Takeda’s messenger corps simply wore a
characteristic sashimono (back flag) identifying
them as Tsukaiban.
If the army list allows you, your force may
include up to one Tsukaiban per character
have no fatigue, they still gain an action token,
level 4 or above at a cost of 10pts per Tsukaiban.
to be able to send the attached Tsukaiban.
The Tsukaiban must start the game attached
If a character to which the Tsukaiban is
to a level 4 or level 5 character.
attached is killed, then the Tsukaiban is
During the player’s activation phase, when
eliminated, has no other effect in the game
the player chooses to rest a character with an
and do not count it as a casualty for break
attached Tsukaiban, the player may also choose
point purposes.
to move the Tsukaiban and attach it to any other
When moving the Tsukaiban between char-
friendly character on the table. The player may
acters, if there are enemy units within 8”of
immediately transfer any number of command
either character involved, the player must roll
points from the resting character to the charac-
a D6. On a result of a 1 the Tsukaiban was killed
ter to which the Tsukaiban has now attached.
or captured by the enemy and is removed from
The Tsukaiban remains attached to the new
the table. The Tsukaiban has no effect on break
character until moved again using the
points and is not counted as an additional
same procedure. A character with an attached
casualty.
Tsukaiban can choose to rest even if they

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 2.3 Determining force fate points, 2.3.1 The Tea Ceremony
new options. If a force includes a Geisha, the warband leader
In the CLASH of Spears core rulebook we intro- can choose to attempt the Tea Ceremony.
duced two ways in which a player can try to A Samurai that demonstrates proficiency in the
gain additional fate points before the battle. See Tea Ceremony will greatly impress his troops and
section 9.2 of the CLASH of Spears rulebook. The they will march to the battlefield with the cer-
following section adds a few additional options. tainty that victory is the only possible outcome
Each army list will indicate which options are when following their leader.
available to your force as not all these options can However, the Tea Ceremony is a sophisticated
be chosen by all warbands. ritual and there is always a chance of failure and
Every force has the option of giving a rousing embarrassment. If the Samurai lord fails while
speech as explained in the core rules, when anoth- executing the ritual his troops will enter the bat-
er option is available this option can be selected tlefield a bit more unsure of their fate.
instead of giving the rousing speech just before To perform the Tea Ceremony,the force must
the battle. This has the same effect as before on include a Geisha. The Geisha will not enter the
the engagement phase yet the impact on the force battlefield, but the model will be placed on the
fate points might be different. side of the table.
When you perform the Tea Ceremony
before the battle roll a D6 and consult the
following table

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 ROLL EFFECT

The ceremony is flawless, your lord

has performed a ceremony worthy of
6
remembrance, your force gains two fate
points

The ceremony is performed successfully,

3-5
your force gains a fate point

The execution is acceptable, but your

2
warriors are not impressed

A major mishap has occurred, and your

1 troops are unsettled, your force loses a
fate point

2.3.2 Nembutsu Chant

Sohei monks would often take time to conduct
special chants known as Nembutsu. Observing
the ritual or hearing the chants even from afar
can have quite an effect on enemy soldiers. This
can lead to a loss of confidence on the outcome
of the struggle ahead.
If you choose to perform the Nembutsu chants
before the battle roll a D6 and on a roll of 5+ the
enemy force will lose one fate point.
You may not choose to perform the Nembutsu
chants when facing an Ikko Ikki army.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 3

Soldiers and War Gear

3.1 Weapon Characteristics

Representing Melee Weapons Additional Hand Weapon
Due to the type of encounters represented in (initiative 1, save mod 0)

CLASH of Katanas, it would not be uncommon Soldiers can be armed with an additional or sec-
to have groups of soldiers with mixed weapons. ondary hand weapon to be used on the off-hand.
The following categories provide the rules for A typical example of this was the combination
units where we can identify a specific weapon of using the katana on the primary hand and
as the dominant weapon. For example, a unit the shorter wakisashi on the off-hand this com-
armed with Katanas could be represented with bination was commonly referred to as daisho.
models mostly armed with Katanas but a few of Although the combination itself does not have
them could have different weapons. In general, if any special rules, troops might have martial
more than half of the models in a given unit can traits that enable special skills when using
be seen to have a specific weapon the unit can be this combination.
considered to be armed with that weapon. There
is also a mixed weapons category that can be Mixed Weapons
used to represent troops where the unit is armed (initiative 2, save mod 0)
with a variety of weapons with not one specific
This category is used to represent units of troops
weapon being dominant.
armed with a mix of weapons. The unit does
not have a dominant type of weapon and these
3.1.1 Melee Weapons soldiers will each leverage their individual weap-
ons to the best of their ability.
Hand Weapons
(initiative 1, save mod 0) We assume that when using mixed weapons,
many members of the unit will have long weap-
This category includes all standard single-hand-
ons granting this category an initiative of 2, and
ed weapons used by troops, the most common
we give them a save modifier of 0.
in Japan being the katana. All troops are
assumed to carry at least some kind of hand
weapon unless otherwise stated.

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 Heavy Weapons combat of earlier times, it was natural for the
(initiative 1, save mod -2) Yari to become a common choice of weapon.

This category includes heavy double handed Although this type of spear can be used one
weapons used on foot such as the Nodachi, handed, in Japan it was more common to be used
Odachi, Tetsubo and others. with both hands.

These weapons require the use of both hands The Yari and other similar spears have no save
and although it is longer than traditional hand modifier and have an initiative of 3.
weapons it is unwieldy and hence it is given an
Cavalry Long Spear
initiative of 1. The great momentum that can
(initiative 3, save mod 0)
be leveraged with these heavy weapons means
that enemies attacked in melee will suffer a -2 This category includes the long cavalry spears
save modifier. used mainly by mounted Samurai. The cavalry
Yari was not used as the couched lance of the
Thrusting Spear European knight but instead was used with
(initiative 3, save mod 0) more fluid movements that suited the Samurai
Thrusting Spears, generally known as Yari, warfare style.
quickly became dominant weapons in Japan. The Cavalry Yari has an initiative of 3 and has
They were easy to produce and as troops adopt- no intrinsic save modifier.
ed combat drills related to group combat as
opposed to the heroic individualistic style of

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Pike Polearms
(initiative 4, save mod 0) (initiative 2, save mod -1)

Over time as the Yari became the common This category includes long weapons that are
weapon of the Ashigaru, Daimyos realized that shorter than spears or pikes. Most of these
there was great value in increasing the length weapons can be used for thrusting or hacking
of their spears. Because of this, during the as in the examples of glaives, halberds or the
Sengoku period the Yari changed considerably typical Japanese weapon known as Naginata,
in length. Rather than creating a complex set of but other long blade weapons such as the
rules for the different lengths we have accept- Nagamaki will also be included in this cate-
ed the fact that in general during this period gory for practical purposes and differences in
Ashigaru were increasingly armed with longer use will be addressed with the corresponding
Yari that were closer to a pike than a thrusting martial traits.
spear and was referred to as Nagae Yari. We will The longer reach of these weapons grant
classify these weapons as Pikes them an initiative of 2, which will affect spe-
The Pike requires the use of both hands, yet cific traits as indicated on the relevant section
the Japanese combat was more fluid in style and they will apply a -1 save modifier against
than the European drill for this weapon. the enemy.
The Pike is unwieldy and because of this
troops in loose order will rather switch to their
secondary hand weapon.
The Pike has an initiative of 4 and confers no
save modifier. When troops armed with Pike
are engaged in melee while in loose order,
count them as armed with hand weapons
instead, unless otherwise indicated by traits or
special rules.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 3.1.2 Missile Weapons

Representing missile weapons

When representing troops with missile weap-
ons, we expect to see the majority of the models
armed with the weapon in question since this
is clearly the role that has been assigned to this
group of soldiers. More than half the models in
the unit must have the missile weapon in ques-
tion for the unit to be considered to be armed
with these weapons.

War Bow
(close range 8”/ long range 20”, save mod 0 up
to 4”, +1 beyond 4”)

Prior to the introduction of firearms by

Portuguese traders, the bow was the preferred
missile weapon in Japan. Archery was a skill
that required developed technique and thus
not easy to master. Even after the appearance
of firearms the bow continued to be used to
provide cadence of fire while firearms were War Bow (mounted)
reloaded, at least until effective rotational fire (close range 4”/ long range 16”, save mod 0 up
tactics were widely adopted. to 2”, +1 beyond 2”

This category will include all War Bows Although the Samurai were renowned as
generally used by Samurai and Ashigaru with mounted archers, by the time of the Sengoku
proper training. period, combat styles had change and it was
⿓ Troops armed with War Bows use the no longer that common to see the mounted
Shoot action when attacking with their Samurai with Yumi. However, it would still be
missile weapons. possible to encounter them, particularly in skir-
⿓ The War Bow of the period has a short mish actions.
range of 8” and a long range of 20”. ⿓ When used by troops with the mounted
⿓ War Bow attacks have a save modifier of trait, War Bows have a close range of 4”
0 against troops within 4” and +1 save and long range of 16”.
modifier against troops beyond 4” ⿓ These troops use the Mounted Shoot
action when using their missile weapons.

⿓ War Bow attacks have a save modifier of

0 against troops within 2” and +1 save
modifier against troops beyond 2”

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Bow ⿓ Troops armed with Crossbow use the
(close range 8”/ long range 16”, save mod +1) Shoot action when executing missile
attacks, however they ignore the +1
Some troops may be armed with lighter bows, Fatigue modifier and only gain fatigue as
commonly used for skirmishing and other sim- indicated from the fatigue table.
ilar roles.
⿓ After a shoot action with Crossbows the
⿓ Bows have a short range of 8” and a long unit gains an unloaded token, it takes a
range of 16” and troops will benefit from ready action to remove the unloaded token.
a +1 save modifier when attempting sav- The unit cannot Shoot again until the
ing throws against these missile attacks. unloaded token is removed.
⿓ Troops armed with Bows use the Shoot
action when attacking with their mis-
sile weapons.

Sling
(close range 8”/ long range 12”, save mod 0 up
to 4”, +1 beyond 4”)

Slings were not very common in Japan during

this period yet they were not absent and were in
fact used by some soldiers.
⿓ Slings have a short range of 8” and a long
range of 12”.

⿓ Slings have a 0 save modifier up to 4” but

any targets beyond that range gain a +1
save modifier.

⿓ Troops armed with slings use the Shoot

action when attacking with their mis-
sile weapons.

Crossbow
(close range 8”/ long range 16”, save mod 0 up
to 6”, +1 beyond 6”)

The crossbow was not widely adopted in Japan

but it was in use by some troops in the Korean
peninsula during the Samurai invasion. This cov-
ers heavy crossbows that have better penetration
power and are easier for troops to master than
the bow.
⿓ The Crossbow has a short range of 8” and
a long range of 16”

⿓ The Crossbow attacks have a save modi-

fier of 0 against troops within 6” and +1
beyond 6”

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 Repeating Crossbow
(close range 6”/ long range 10” save mod +1)

Some Chinese troops were armed with a cross-

bow that could be fired a few times before need-
ing to reload the darts. These weapons were not
as powerful as the crossbow but allowed faster
shooting cadence.
⿓ The Repeating Crossbow has a short
range of 6” and a long range of 10”.

⿓ The Repeating Crossbow attacks have a

save modifier +1.

⿓ Troops armed with Repeating Crossbow

use the Shoot action when executing mis-
sile attacks, however they ignore the +1
Fatigue modifier and only gain fatigue as
indicated from the fatigue table.

⿓ After a shoot action the unit gains an

unloaded token, it takes a ready action
to remove one unloaded token. The
unit may shoot as long as the number of
unloaded tokens is less than 3.

Arquebus ⿓ The Arquebus has a short range of 8” and

(close range 8”/ long range 16”, save mod 1 up a long range of 16”
to 8”, 0 beyond 8”
⿓ The Arquebus attacks have a save modi-
The arquebus was introduced to Japan by fier of -1 against troops within 6” and 0
Portuguese traders and quickly became a favorite beyond 6”.
weapon in Japan. It was better able to penetrate ⿓ Troops armed with Arquebus use the
armor and it was much easier to train troops to Shoot action when executing missile
use them than it was to train them in the use of attacks, however they ignore the +1
the bow. The Japanese arquebus was commonly Fatigue modifier and only gain fatigue
known as Teppo. as indicated from the fatigue table.
Although it had considerable range, accuracy After a shoot action with Arquebus the unit
dropped dramatically after the first 50 to 60 gains two unloaded tokens, for
yards, and it took extra time to reload. As always, each ready action that the unit
in CLASH we define the range of the weapon not executes, they may remove one of
by the maximum potential range but by the com- the unloaded tokens. The unit can-
mon use effective range of the weapon. not shoot again until all unloaded LEARN
MORE
tokens are removed.

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 Early Firearms The shooting models can trace line of sight
(close range 8”/ long range 12”, save mod +1 up over any interposing friendly units as the bomb
to 6”, 0 beyond 6”)
throwers are trained to lob grenades in support of
This category includes early type of firearms that friendly troops. No model may trace line of sight
were used by some troops that didn’t have access that goes over more than 3” of high area terrain.
to the European style arquebus that was becom- When doing a shoot action do not follow the
ing dominant in Japan. normal shoot action rules and instead use the fol-
⿓ They have short range of 8” and a long lowing procedure.
range of 12” The attacking player rolls two to-hit dice per
model in the attacking unit. The to-hit target
⿓ Attacks have a save modifier of -1 against
targets up to 6” and 0 against targets depends on the number of models in the target
beyond 6”. unit instead of the ranged stat of the attacking
unit as indicated on this table:
⿓ Troops armed with Early Firearms use
the Shoot action when executing mis-
sile attacks, however they ignore the +1 # MODELS IN TARGET TO-HIT TARGET
UNIT NUMBER
Fatigue modifier and only gain fatigue as
indicated from the fatigue table. 1-4 models 6+

5-8 models 5+
⿓ After a shoot action the unit gains two
9+ models 4+
unloaded tokens, for each ready action
that the unit executes, they may remove No modifiers apply.
one of the unloaded tokens. The unit can-
not Shoot again until all unloaded tokens
are removed.

Grenades
(close range 6” long–, save mod -1 )

This category includes all rudimentary early

hand thrown grenades.
A unit with grenades needs to execute a ready
action to prepare them before they can use
them. The unit executes the ready action and
gains a ready token next to them to indicate
that they can now use their grenades.
A unit with a ready token that executes any
action other than a shoot action, immediately los-
es the ready token. If a unit with a ready token fails
an activation test, the unit loses the ready token.
A unit with a ready token can declare a shoot
action against any enemy in line of sight within 6”,
there is no long range for grenades.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 If at least of one of the bomb throwers has Any enemy or friendly units hit by grenades
to trace line of sight over friendly troops, any must test morale as usual.
ones rolled, after relevant re-rolls, will result Units in close order forced to test morale
in one grenade hit to the friendly unit over must roll an additional D6 just as if they had
which line of sight was traced, if more than received an additional casualty.
one unit the enemy chooses a single unit that If a bomb throwers unit with a ready token
will be affected. is engaged in melee, the grenades explode
If the bomb throwers do a shoot action affecting both units. Each unit will suffer a
while they accumulate two or more fatigue number of to-hit rolls equal to the number of
points any ones rolled, after any relevant models in the unit with the ready token.
re-rolls, will hit the bomb thrower unit. If Use the table above to determine the to-hit
tracing line of sight over friendly troops the number, each player rolls for the hits to the
ones will only affect the bomb throwers and opponent’s unit. Hits are applied before the
not the interposed friendly units. melee, and any morale effect
You can always choose to have some models of those hits are accounted for
not shoot to avoid tracing line of sight over during the morale test at the
friendly troops or over high area terrain. end of the combat. SEE
EXAMPLE
Grenade hits have a -1 save modifier

22
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 3.2 Armor and other equipment
The following section outlines the types of
armor available to the different soldiers you will
encounter in CLASH of Katanas.
Just like in the core rules the saving throw is
calculated by subtracting the armor points of
the type of armor from 7.
Although you might mix a few types of armor
among members of a unit, more than half the
models in the unit must have the armor correct-
ly represented for the unit to benefit from the
corresponding save stat.

Partial Armor
(armor points 1)

This armor includes the lightest type of armor

worn on the battlefield. It would include just
the pectoral armor that could be used by ban-
dits or some leather protection worn under
clothes. Also, some lightly armored Ashigaru
will be classified as wearing partial armor.
Improved Armor
(n/a)
Full Armor
(armor points 2) Any of the prior types of armor can be granted
Over time, as Daimyo took notice of the impor- the characteristic of “improved armor”. This
tance of having well equipped Ashigaru, it characteristic indicates additional reinforce-
became common to provide a full set of armor ment of the type of armor generally done by
covering torso, arms, legs and the typical head incorporating metal plates or similar improve-
cover, the jingasa. This category also includes ments to the underlying armor.
other types of metal armor covering most of the Having “improved armor” allows the player to
body which was also in use during the period. re-roll any rolls of 1, before applying any mod-
ifiers, as long as the attack against which they
Enclosed Armor are attempting the saving throw does not have a
(armor points 3) negative save modifier.
The model still considers the saving throw
Samurai armor is universally recognized, very
stat when consulting the fatigue chart, the
sophisticated and characteristic to the period.
re-roll benefit has no impact on this chart.
Samurai in complete armor protecting the
The “namban” armor implemented later in
full body, including cuirass, greaves, sleeves,
the Sengoku period will fall under this category.
helmet, etc. are included under the enclosed
armor category.

23
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 EX AMPLE as 5+ for fatigue, a unit with 5+ save stat counts as
A Samurai equipped with Improved 4+ for fatigue and so on.
Enclosed Armor suffers two hits from a A unit in close order can deploy the pavises
Teppo attack 11 inches away. The Teppo by executing a ready action, place the pavises in
attack has a 0 save modifier at this range so front of the unit.
the improved armor characteristic applies. A unit with deployed pavises gains a +1 to
The player rolls a 1 and a 5, which would their saving throw against any missile attacks
normally result in one wound, but due to from enemies to their front. In addition, while
the improved armor the player re-rolls the the unit has any unloaded token the player may
1 and gets a 4 thus saving both hits. re-roll any 1s rolled on saving throws, reflecting
If the attack had been at 8 inches or less the additional protection gained while troops
the model would have suffered one wound are reloading.
since the improved armor re-roll does not
Units with deployed pavises never get the cov-
apply against any attacks with a negative
er benefit from linear obstacles.
save modifier such as the -1 for the Teppo
A unit with deployed pavises can execute a
up to 8 inches.
ready action to shoulder the pavises.
A unit in loose order with deployed pavises
gains no benefit from the pavises and must
Shield
execute a form close order action to regain
(armor points 1)
the benefit.
This category covers all different shields of dif- If a unit with deployed pavises executes a
ferent sizes that are too large to be considered move, attack or all-out attack action, the pavises
bucklers but are not as large or as strong to clas- are destroyed and removed from the table.
sified as heavy shield. If a unit with pavises, is engaged in hand to
hand combat the pavises are destroyed.
Pavises
(1 armor point against missile attacks when A unit can abandon the pavises for free at
deployed) the start of any move, attack or all-out-attack
action, the pavises are destroyed and removed
Missile troops can carry large shields known as
from the table.
pavises, or Tate for the Japanese.
A unit equipped with pavises starts the battle
with the pavises shouldered. While a unit has
pavises shouldered it may not do any shoot
actions and it always counts as if their save stat
was one point lower for fatigue, so a unit with a
saving throw of 6 with shouldered pavises counts

24
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 3.3 Traits rules, as long as all the models in the unit are
fully in open terrain.
The following traits describe the special rules
that apply to troops in CLASH of Katanas. In addition to this, troops with this trait that
wish to do a Form Close Order action as a reac-
Some traits from the CLASH of Spears rule-
tion when they have an active enemy within 8”
book might be repeated for sake of providing
do not need to be in command range to react,
the complete list but some might be slightly dif-
nor do they need a CP to react. They do, however,
ferent to represent characteristics of the period,
need to do a reaction test as usual. A character
so make sure to read them in detail.
in command range can spends CPs as usual to
improve the odds of success.
3.3.1 Martial Traits
Finally, these troops never gain fatigue for
Aimed Shot executing a form close order action, even when
(loose order, af fects shooting) the fatigue table would indicate otherwise.

These troops are masters in the use of the bow, allowing Bushmaster
them to take extra time to improve their shooting. (af fects morale and saves in high ter rain)

When these troops perform a Ready action, These warriors are experts in the use of terrain,
place a Ready token or maker next to them skillfully melding with it when needed and feeling
to indicate that they have taken the Ready conf ident in their natural environment.
action. This token remains there until the
Troops with the
unit completes an action or rest/rally at which
Bushmaster trait that
point it is removed.
have to take a morale test
If a unit with this token next to them exe-
while all the models in
cutes a shoot action against an enemy unit in
the unit are in high area
close range, the unit may reroll any misses.
terrain may re-roll any 1s
Ashigaru Drill rolled, before apply-
(af fects Pike rules and form close order action) ing any modifiers.
These troops
Ashigaru pike drill differed from its western counter-
gain a +1 save
part. Japanese doctrine required its Ashigaru to remain
modifiers
flexible, capable of quickly moving around the battlefield
against mis-
and fighting in a looser formation. While also be able to
sile attacks
quickly close ranks to repel enemy charges.
while in
Troops with this trait still count as using the high area
Pike while in loose order and are not forced to terrain.
use a hand weapon, as indicated by the Pike

25
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Charge Deadly Strike
(requires Attack action in loose order armed (af fects enemy combat response)
with cavalr y long spear, af fects Attack mechan-
ics,enemy saving throw and morale) These fighters can choose to take extra time before
striking a blow while they enhance their weapons by
This is a loose order cavalry charge that can still be
adding poison or simply waiting for a critical vulnera-
effective if the enemy has lower initiative weapons.
ble time for the enemy.
A mounted unit in loose order with cavalry
When choosing to do an Attack action, the
long spears executing an attack action against
player can indicate that the trait will be used,
an enemy with lower weapon initiative gains a
this must be announced before the defender
-1 save modifier to their hits.
selects any combat response.
Combined Arms When using deadly strike, if the enemy player
(requires Attack action and mixed weapons, chooses counterattack as a combat response, the
af fects to-hit rolls)
counterattack takes place first, after the counter
Theses troops are used to fighting in groups with attack wounds are applied if the attacker is still
mixed weaponry and have developed effective melee alive, then conduct the attack.
techniques to leverage the strengths of each weapon Any models with the wounds(x) trait will suffer
when attacking. two wounds instead of one for each unsaved hit
When executing an Attack action, or when from an attacker using the deadly strike trait.
selecting Defend as a combat response, troops
Extra Equipment (X)
with this trait may re-roll any to-hit rolls of 1
(af fects equipment usage)
before applying any relevant modifiers.
Sometimes troops carry equipment that cannot be
used simultaneously—for example, double handed
weapons and shields, bows and shields, javelins and
thrusting spears, etc. This trait is required in such
circumstances and defines how the extra equipment
is used.
When troops carry equipment that cannot be
used at the same time (i.e., bows and shields), we
need to identify what equipment is in use by the
troops at each point in the battle.
This also applies when troops carry more than
one type of weapon (other than hand weapons).
A typical example of this is some cavalry units
that can act both as missile troops armed with
javelins but may also switch to a close combat
cavalry spear.
We will always assume that the equipment
indicated in parentheses next to the trait is
the equipment that is not ready to be used

26
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 at the start of the battle. It could be strapped to Furikaeshi
the backs of the soldiers, or there could be any (naginata defensive technique, requires defend
& loose order while not in high area ter rain,
alternative way of carrying this equipment. af fects defend mechanics)
These troops can switch to their alternative
equipment by announcing they are doing so Experts in martial use of the Naginata have mastered
while executing a move action or by doing a the furikaeshi strike, a whirling blade defensive
ready action. When they switch to use the extra sequence that prevents enemies of closing in, or can
equipment, place an extra equipment token next get them killed in the process!
to the unit. While the unit has this token, the To benefit from this trait the troops must be
equipment in the parentheses next to this trait in loose order and none of the models can be in
is the one in use by the troops. Any other equip- high area terrain. When selecting defend as a
ment not compatible with it is strapped or placed combat response you have the option of using
aside and cannot be used. this skill instead of rolling to cancel enemy hits.
The troops can remove the Extra Equipment If the skill is used, then the enemy must take
token again by executing another Ready action a grit test before rolling to hit, applying any
or while doing a Move action as before relevant modifiers. The player may add an addi-
tional D6 to increase the chance of success if the
Extended Nagae-Yari attackers are more than double the models in
(requires pike) the unit with Furekaeshi.
These troops carry a longer version of the ⿓ If the test is failed they may only roll half
Nagae-Yari and train to excel in their use. the total number of attacks they would
normally roll, round up.
When fighting against other troops with
weapons with the same initiative (initiative ⿓ If the test is passed they may roll their
4), this unit counts as having weapons with normal number of attacks.
higher initiative. In either case, the attacker to-hit rolls will
suffer a -1 to hit. In addition, each 1 rolled by the
Form Up!
attacker, before applying any modifiers or using
(requires mounted)
any trait re-rolls, will result in a hit caused to
These mounted warriors are trained in fast maneu- the attacker! After accounting for the self-in-
vers to close ranks when needed. flicted hits, relevant trait re-rolls still apply and
When a unit with the mounted trait and this could result in additional attacking hits but not
trait executes a move action while in loose order additional self inflicted hits.
in which no models move more than 4” the unit These hits will benefit from the -1 save mod-
can immediately execute a form close order ifier from the naginatas but will not cause the
action for free once the move action is finished. attacker to have to test morale. The number of
This still counts as a move action for all purpos- hits suffered by the attacker can never exceed
es but the forming close order action is execut- the number of attacks from the defending unit,
ed as indicated in the rules. any excess hits are ignored.
The combat response still counts as defend, so
the unit gains an action token but will not gain
fatigue, and the defender is the one that must
retreat after the melee.

27
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 EX AMPLE:
Gushing Wounds
(requires all- out attack and double handed
A unit 6 models unit attacks a 5 models weapon, enemy morale)
defender unit that chooses to use the
Furikaeshi trait. The attacker passes the A vicious opponent armed with a heavy weapon
initial grit test and must now roll 6 dice and attacking in a frenzied manner will cause
to hit looking to score with 5+ due to the -1 sig nif icant impact on the morale of the enemy
modifier. that can obser ve the terrible wounds inf licted by
The attacker rolls, 1,1,2,4,4,6. One hit is
the enemy.
scored on the enemy and the attacker suf- When executing an all-out attack, for each
fers two self-inflicted hits. The attacker has defender’s saving throw roll of 1, before
a trait that allows them to re-roll 1s, so the applying any modifiers but after any possible
two 1s are rolled again resulting on a 1 and re-rolls, the defender must add 1D6 to the
a 5. Another hit is scored by the attacker required morale tests, just as if an additional
(note that the re-roll of 1 has no effect since wound had been received.
only initial 1s cause self-hits).
The total result in the attacker suffer-
ing two hits, and the defender suffering
two hits. Note that the self inflicted hits
suffer a -1 save modifier due to the enemy
Naginata but they do not force the attacker
to test morale.

Guerrilla
(requires loose order, af fects enemy morale)

Some troops excel in ambushing enemies by taking

advantage of concealment and terrain. These ambush-
es generally have negative impact on enemy morale.
If troops with this trait initiate an Attack or
All Out Attack action from high area terrain,
then the enemy must add a D6 to any morale
tests resulting from the melee. The unit only
needs to be in the area terrain when they start
the action, but all the models in the unit must
start in such terrain.
Troops with the Guerrilla trait always treat
rough terrain as open terrain and broken
terrain as rough terrain when consulting the
fatigue chart when executing Attack, All Out
Attack, Throw or Shoot actions.

28
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Harinezumi or “Hedgehog”
(requires counter attack in close order and Pike,
af fects counter-attack mechanics)

Spear fighting doctrine in the east teaches active

rather than passive defense. Trained pikemen could
deliver deadly coordinated counter attacks on incom-
ing enemies to prevent them from ever closing in.

This trait is applied when a unit in closed

order armed with Pikes is the defender in a
melee against an opponent with lower initiative
weapon. If the defender selects counter-attack
as a combat response, instead of rolling the
same number of dice as the attacker, the player
may roll up to two times the number of attacks
of the attacking unit but not exceeding the
defending unit attacks.
In addition, these attacks are resolved before
the attacker gets to roll to-hit, and so any casu- Kuridashi
alties resulting from this counterattack are (naginata of fensive technique, requires Attack
action in loose order while not in high area ter-
removed immediately and don’t get to contrib- rain and af fects enemy counter-attack)
ute dice to the attacker’s roll.
This is a combat technique used by trained naginata
Heavy Strike fighters in which the weapon is projected forward to
(Requires heav y weapons) maximize the reach of the attack and the projection
of force.
These troops specialize in attacking with double
handed weapons such as the tetsubo. To apply this trait the unit must execute an
attack action while none of the models are in
A unit that selects defend as a combat
high area terrain and the unit is formed in
response against an enemy with the heavy
loose order. If the unit executes an attack action
strike trait will suffer a -1 modifier to their
against an enemy with weapons of lower initia-
defend rolls.
tive and the enemy selects counterattack as a
In addition to this, if the attacking unit chose
combat response, they must apply a -1 modifier
to do an All-Out-Attack against a unit that
to the counter attacking to-hit rolls.
selected Defend as combat response, the defend-
er will have to roll an additional D6 in morale.
Even if the attacker scores no hits, or if all
hits are blocked, the defender must still roll
for morale with one D6 due to this trait. This
also applies if the defender chooses to use the
Furikaeshi trait, as it is used in lieu of defend.

29
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Mandarin Duck
(af fects reaction)

The Chinese general Qi Jiguang implemented a

special t ype of for mation with mixed weapons
and trained in small units combat tactics. These
troops were armed with a mix of spears, swords
and shields, firearms, and coordinated their actions
against the enemy. In the army list you will encoun-
ter the prof iles for these mixed units which you
can represent with a unit of f irearm soldiers and
a melee unit with a mix of sword and shield foot
soldiers and spear soldiers.

A unit with the Mandarin Duck trait that has

another unit with the Mandarin Duck trait an
in loose order,at a range of 2” or less and wants
to react when an enemy unit within 8” announc-
es an action can attempt the following special
reaction.
The reacting unit may attempt to react by
moving through the friendly unit with the
mandarin duck trait. The unit may move up to
6” but at least the first model moved must do so
through the friendly unit with mandarin duck.
The unit attempting this reaction does not
need a CP, nor does it need to be in command
range, to attempt this reaction. However, a reac-
tion test is required as normal and a character
within command range could spend a CP to
improve the odds of the reaction test as usual, if
desired.
In addition to this, when a unit with the man-
darin duck trait needs to retreat from melee and
the retreat is blocked by a friendly unit with the
mandarin duck trait, the blocking friendly unit
can move up to 1” to make room for the retreat-
ing unit.

30
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Massed Charge will roll their attacks first, and only sur-
(requires Attack action in close order armed viving enemies will get to strike back.
with cavalr y long spear, af fects Attack)
⿓ The enemy will suffer a -1 modifier to all
This is a close order cavalr y charge to break and saving throws.
overrun enemy lines by sheer impact.
⿓ If the enemy unit has to make a morale
A unit with the Massed Charge trait that test as a result of this melee, then they
will add an additional D6 to their
executes an Attack action while in loose
morale test dice, just as if they had suf-
order gains the same benefits as indicated by
fered an additional casualty.
the Charge trait. When a mounted unit with
However, if the enemy unit has weapon initiative
Massed Charge executes an attack in close
three or higher, then apply the following effects
order, they can execute an 8” move, as long
instead:
as this move is done in straight line in the
facing direction without any turns or shifts, ⿓ Both the attacker and the defender will
thus ignoring the 4” movement restriction for suffer a -1 modifier to all saving throws.
mounted units attacking in close order. ⿓ If the enemy unit must take a morale
In addition, if attacking in close order with test as a result of this melee, then they
cavalry long spear against enemies with weapon will add an additional D6 to their
initiative two or less,, they will gain the follow- morale test dice, just as if they had suf-
fered an additional casualty.
ing benefits:
⿓ If the enemy unit selects Counterattack
as a combat response, the attacking unit

31
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Mounted
(af fects various)

These are cavalr y troops. Different types of cavalr y

will have additional traits according to their dif-
ferent roles.

The following rules apply to mounted troops:

⿓ Mounted troops move 8” in loose order in
open terrain.

⿓ Mounted troops in close order cannot

move more than 4” when doing Move,
Attack or All-Out Attack actions

⿓ When mounted troops must retreat from

melee, they retreat 3” rather than just 1”.
Although they retreat 3”, the unit will only
gain fatigue if they cannot retreat 1” from
the enemy due to terrain or other troops.

⿓ Enemies shooting at mounted suffer a -1

modifier to their to-hit rolls when shoot-
Momentum
(requires pole arms in open ter rain, af fects ene-
ing at a mounted unit that is active and
my on defend response and saving throw) in open terrain (i.e., when shooting as a
reaction). This reflects the additional dif-
These warriors use their polearms to project momentum ficulty of hitting enemy mounted troops
making it diff icult for enemies to parr y the attack. while they are maneuvering.

This trait applies when an attacker selects ⿓ Infantry armed with initiative 0 or 1 weap-
Attack while all the attacking models are fully in ons, fighting active mounted troops in the
open, suffer a -1 to their defend or to-hit
open terrain and armed with pole weapons.
rolls. This is due to the advantageous com-
Any attacker to hit rolls of 6, before apply- bat stance of the mounted warrior. Note
ing any modifiers, will result in an additional that this only applies to active mounted
-1 save modifier. troops; if mounted troops are caught
In addition to this, if the defending unit selects flat-footed and attacked by an active ene-
defend as their combat response they will suffer my, this does not apply.
a -1 to their defend rolls. ⿓ If mounted troops go into rough terrain,
all previous rules and all other traits that
benefit mounted troops, like charge or
others, no longer apply and any missile
weapons are treated as the infantry ver-
sion of that weapon. We assume the troops
either dismount or at least cannot lever-
age their mounts to gain the advantages
they get while in open ground.

32
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Mounted gunnery When executing an Attack action in loose
(requires mounted and arquebus/early firearms) order against an enemy within 2” distance, if
the attacking unit has more models than the
These troops are trained to use their arquebus or
defender, the attacker may re-roll any to-hit
early firearms while mounted, however it does
rolls of 1, before applying any modifiers.
require a steady stance.
In addition to this, the enemy will add a
Despite having the mounted trait, these
D6 to any morale test they might be required
troops armed with firearms always use the
to test due to this melee, just as if it had
infantry version of the weapon and use stan-
received an additional casualty.
dard shooting instead mounted shooting. This
reflects the mounts having to remain still while
Overhead Shot
the rider is shooting. (requires missile weapons and close order, affects
Shoot action mechanics)
Norikuzishi or “Ride and Destroy”
(requires mounted, close order and cavalry long spear These missile troops are trained to shoot their mis-
and affects attack) siles in a curved ballistic trajectory allowing them
to shoot over friendly troops to provide support.
These mounted warriors specialize in frontal charges
This type of shooting is highly inaccurate and hence
against the enemy to disrupt their formation.
these troops will use this technique while in close
When this unit executes an Attack action order to maximize the effect of the bulk volley rather
in the open while in close order the player may than the individual marksmanship of the soldier.
re-roll any 1s on the to-hit rolls before applying
When executing a Shoot action while in
any modifiers.
close order, these troops can shoot over
Off Hand Parry friendly troops within 4”. As long as at least
(requires defend in loose order and off-hand weapon one of the shooting models must trace line
or shield, affects defend rolls) of sight over the friendly unit, the enemy is
Some soldiers train in the use of a weapon with considered to be at long range for this shoot
their secondar y “off-hand” to parr y enemy blows. action. Alternatively, you can choose not to
have those models participate in the shoot-
While in loose order, if these troops select ing action and perform a direct shooting
Defend as their combat response, they may action by following the standard rules with
re-roll any rolls of 1 and 2 before applying the remaining models.
any modifiers.
Parry Riposte
Overwhelm (requires loose order against enemy in loose order,
(requires Attack in loose order from a distance of 2” affects defend)
or less, affects to-hit and enemy morale)
These soldiers can quickly transform a defensive
While the Samurai would always look for the honor action into a counterattack.
of individual combat, other soldiers less concerned
with these matters were eager to take advantage This trait takes effect when troops select
of situations where they could over whelm their defend while in loose order against an enemy
opponents with numerical superiority. also fighting in loose order. For each enemy

33
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 hit canceled by the defend response, the defend-
ing player rolls a D6, each result that matches
or exceeds the combat stat of the defender will
cause a hit on the attacker. The attacker never
takes a morale test due to these hits.

Rain of Blows
(requires All- Out-Attack and additional hand
weapon, af fects to-hit rolls)

Soldiers properly trained in the use of additional

hand weapons can easily over whelm opponents
by a continuous succession of hacks and blows.

When a unit with rain of blows executes an

All-Out-Attack action they may re-roll any 1s
and 2s rolled in the to hit roll before applying
any modifiers.

Rotational Fire
EX AMPLE
(requires close order and Teppo, af fects unload-
ed counters) A Teppo unit with 13 models is formed in
a valid close order formation by placing
Troops with this drill are trained to discharge their 5 models in the f irst rank, 5 models in the
weapons and switch places with a rear rank so that second rank and 3 models in the third rank.
the next rank fires while they recharge their weapons. When the unit shoots, they may only count
This allows to maintain a constant cadence of fire 5 models when determining the number
over time. of models that can shoot, but it will gain

Troops with this trait formed in close order 0 fatigue and 0 reload tokens, the f irst

may choose to only count the models in the reload is canceled by the second rank and

front rank when determining the number of the second reload is canceled by the third

models that can fire. When doing this the unit rank. The third rank still counts since 3

does not gain any fatigue for the shoot action models is more than half the number of

even if the fatigue table indicates they should. models in the f irst rank.

In addition, for each rank after the first, the

unit will negate one of the reload markers
gained, as long as that rank has at least half the
number of models in the front rank.
Troops with this trait never gain fatigue Troops with this drill can still
when doing a form close order action, even form in close order even if they
when the fatigue table indicates they should. are within 2” of a linear obstacle
and parallel to it. LEARN
MORE

34
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Shields up! Skirmish Specialist
(requires unit not in high area ter rain) (requires loose order, af fects save, grit, reaction)

These troops are used to temporar ily closing Although in CLASH all troops operate in skirmish order
shields when under missile attacks to improve at one time or another, troops with the skirmish specialist
their protection. traits are expertly trained for these kinds of low-level
actions. This allows them to maintain superior tactical
A unit with this trait, with no models in high
awareness and are harder to pin down. On the flip side,
area terrain, may declare they are using this
these troops can lose confidence quickly in a melee against
trait when they are chosen as a target of a mis-
heavier troops when things turn south.
sile attack. The unit gains an action token and
receives the following benefits: Troops with the Skirmish Specialist trait gain a
⿓ Troops gain a +1 save modifier +1 to their save rolls when being attacked with
any kind of missile weapons while in loose order.
⿓ Troops may re-roll any 1s, before apply-
Troops in loose order with this trait that wish
ing any modifiers, on saving throws
unless the attack has a negative save to do a Move action as a reaction when they have
modifier, -1, -2, etc. an active enemy unit within 4” do not need to be
in command range to react, nor do they need a
The unit must gain an action token to earn this
character to spend a CP for them to react. They
benefit for this specific attack. The unit can use
do, however, need to do a reaction test so a char-
this trait each time attack as long as they can con-
acter in command range could still spend a CP to
tinue to gain action tokens. Gaining these action
increase their odds of passing that reaction test.
tokens does not result in the unit gaining any
additional fatigue so you do not need to consult When troops with the Skirmish Specialist trait
the fatigue table. since this is neither a reaction have to test morale due to a melee combat while
or an action, just a trait benefit. at least some of the models in this unit are in
open terrain, they add an additional D6 to any
morale test dice pool, just as if they had suffered
an additional casualty, unless the enemy troops
are themselves skirmish specialists.

Sharpshooter
(requires missile weapon, af fects shoot action)

These soldiers can take extra time to pick targets

when shooting to improve aim.

When these troops perform a Ready action,

place a Ready token or maker next to them to
indicate that they have taken the Ready action.
This token remains there until after the unit
performs an action or rests/rally, at which point
the token is removed.
If a unit with this token next to them executes
a shoot action they add +1 to their to-hit rolls.

35
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Tate Specialist
(requires pavise and af fects morale)

These troops are used to f ighting with the pavise

(or Tate) and feel conf ident when deployed to the
battlef ield with them.

While these troops have deployed pavises and

are in close order, if called to take a morale test
as a result of missile attacks from enemies to
their front they may re-roll any 1s and 2s in the
morale test before applying any modifiers.

Uteya or “Thrust”
(requires Attack action in loose order in the
open and any t ype of infantr y spear or pike,
af fects enemy counter attack)

This is the standard form of attack that would be

used with troops using spears or pikes with both
hands to maximize range and transfer of energ y to
the enemy making it dif f icult with for opponents
with shorter weapons to counter-attack.

When executing an Attack action in loose

Troops with this trait can still form in close order
order while all attacking models are in open
even if they are within 2” of a linear obstacle and
terrain at the time of the melee, against ene-
parallel to it.
mies armed with lower initiative weapons; if
A unit formed in close order in three ranks or
the enemy selects counter-attack as the combat
more will not get any benefit from the volley rule.
response, any 1s rolled by the counter-attacking
This represents the specific training related to the
player, before applying any modifiers but after
fire doctrine that will result in an effective volley.
any re-rolls, will count as additional hits caused
While troops in more ranks might be able to put
by the attacker.
the same volume of fire we will assume that this
Volley volley is not coordinated enough to produce the
(requires close order and Arquebus, af fects ene- effect of the two rank or one rank volley.
my morale)

The effective use of the Teppo can have signif icant

psychological impact on the enemy. To achieve this
a careful f ire doctr ine is required where troops
deliver the full volley in unison.

When troops with the volley trait execute a shoot

action while in close order, enemy targets must
add an additional D6 to any morale tests required,
just as if they had suffered an additional casualty.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Wall of Spears can indicate that they will use the Yoji-gakure
(requires close order af fects hold) trait, this must be announced before the enemy
selects any combat response.
These troops close ranks and hold their g round
against enemies with shorter weapons. When using this trait, the enemy will suffer a
-2 to any counterattack to hit rolls. The attacking
When a unit with the Wall of Spears formed in troops gain an unloaded token and cannot use
close order, selects hold as a combat response the trait again until they spend a ready action to
against an enemy with lower initiative weapons, remove the unloaded token as the warriors pre-
modify the hold response as follows: pare their special implements for their next use.
⿓ The defender rolls a number of D6 equal
to half the enemy attacks rounded
up, not exceeding the total number of
attacks of the defending unit applying
any modifiers.

⿓ Every result matching or exceeding the

Combat of the defending unit will cause
one hit on the enemy.

⿓ The enemy immediately rolls the corre-

sponding saving throws and any unsaved
hits cause wounds as usual, and the
enemy removes the corresponding casu-
alties. Those models are removed before
they get a chance to attack.

⿓ The attacker does not to take a morale

test due to these hits or casualties.

Yoji-gakure
(af fects enemy combat response

These war r iors use dif ferent weapons such as

shuriken, smoke bombs and other implements to
distract or over whelm an enemy.

When doing an attack action against a char-

acter or a unit with fewer models than the
attacker’s total number of attacks, the player

37
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 3.3.2 Disposition Traits
Brotherhood/Sisterhood
Allies (af fects morale)
(af fects force break test results)
These f ighters are united in spirit and training,
These are allied troops, and they might hesitate
drawing on their faith and each other to face the
if things get tough.
horrors of battle with serenity. They’ve trained their
When testing for force break test, if you roll at spirits and bodies to find solace in each other, and
least one failure, then all your troops with this continue f ighting in face of exhaustion and pain.
trait gain an action token, so they will start next
When troops with this trait are required to take
turn as if they had already executed their first
a morale test, they re-roll an results of 1 as long
action.
as the current number of models in the unit is
more than twice the number of dice rolled for
the test, e.g. the unit would need to be 7 models
strong for a 3 dice test, not counting any dice
added by commanders spending CPs to increase
the odds as explained in the core rules
In addition to this, the unit will only suffer
one wound for each fatigue point
above six instead of the normal two
wounds indicated by the rules.

LEARN
MORE

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Determined
(af fects grit tests)

These soldier s have natural resilience to the

horrors of battle resulting in superior drive and
determination.

When these troops are required to take any tests

against the Grit stat, they can ignore any fatigue
modifiers for that test.

Duty-bound
(af fects morale)

These soldiers have a high sense of commitment

and they feel honor-bound to their leaders, making
more relentless and committed when f ighting
close to them.

If this unit is attempting to do a reaction test

while the active unit is within 8” of a friendly
level 4 or 5 character, they may re-roll any failed When a player fails one or more of the dice rolls
rolls. on a force break test, all troops with the Fickle
Level 4 and level 5 characters can use com- trait must do an allegiance test. The player must
mand points to improve the odds of this unit’s roll a D6 for each unit with this trait and con-
morale test resulting from melee as indicated sult the following table.
on page 28 of the CLASH of Spears rulebook, Any friendly or enemy characters can try to
even if the character is not attached to the unit. influence this roll. Before rolling the dice, any
If this unit is exterminated in melee combat, friendly or enemy characters can spend any
friendly units within 8” of the unit that exter-
minated these troops must test morale as indi- ROLL EFFECT

cated on page 28 of the CLASH of Spears rules, The unit has changed sides and will now
be controlled by the enemy player going
instead of the 4” range for seeing friendly troops forward.
exterminated. The number of models required to
1 or less cause a break point calculated at the
start of the game for each side do not
Fickle change, and any models killed from
the unit that has changed sides will
(af fects break test results) not contribute to “casualties for break
points” from either side.
Some troops tend to change allegiance when things The unit gains 3 action tokens, this means
appear not to be going well, and it means that 2-4 that they will not be able to activate next
turn.
commanders will have to keep an eye on them
The unit gains 1 action token, this means
5 or
when the situation gets dire. more
that the unit will only be able to execute
up to two additional actions next turn.

41
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 command points that they might have left to applying any modifiers, unless the test was due
influence the test of a unit they have within to melee with troops with the Honorable trait.
their command range. These troops also observe a high honor code
Any command points spent by enemy char- and failing to observe this code can weigh
acters will result on a -1 modifier to the die roll, heavily on their psyche. When troops with this
and any command points spent by friendly trait engage in melee against an enemy that has
characters will result on a +1 modifier to the die the honorable trait and currently accumulates 3
roll. action tokens, the attacking unit will lose their
The enemy player must spend any command honorable trait for the reminder of the battle.
points they want to spend first, followed by the
Independent
player that currently owns the testing unit.
(af fects activation mechanics)
The player that owns the troops required to
test can decide in which order to take the tests if These troops have a natural initiative that allows
more than one unit is affected. them to act on their own. They can still be com-
manded, but often they’ll be in situations where
Furor they are expected to act independently.
(requires loose order, af fects All- Out Attack)
Troops with the independent trait do not
These troops have a naturally aggressive disposition. require a command point to activate or to react,
When a unit with the furor trait executes an All- if they currently don’t accumulate any action
Out Attack and triggers an enemy morale test, tokens. Activation and reaction tests are still
then the enemy will have to add an additional required and can be influenced by CPs as nor-
D6 to their morale test dice, just as if they had mal. When attempting a reaction without the
suffered an additional casualty. use of CPs, if the reaction is failed the unit gains
an action token, unless the unit is benefiting
Honorable from the skirmish specialist trait. CPs can still
(af fects morale test and fatigue ef fects) be use to activate or react if needed.

Honorable troops adhere to a strict code of conduct. Iron Will

They feel contempt of lesser warriors, whether they (af fects fatigue ef fect)
be friend or foe, and will be less af fected by their
actions or threats. But will treat equal f ighters These troops can sustain additional fatigue before
with respect and withhold from exploiting unfair giving up the f ight.
advantages. Troops with this trait are not eliminated when
Troops with this trait do not need to take a the accumulated fatigue is more than twice the
morale test when an enemy unit within 4” number of models remaining.
destroys a friendly unit in melee unless that If a model with this trait is attached to a unit
friendly unit also has the Honorable trait. They and the unit gains fatigue exceeding twice the
do still need to take morale tests for seeing char- number of remaining models, not counting this
acter models die. model, remove the other models, and leave the
In addition to this, troops with the Honorable model with this trait alone where he stands.
trait may re-roll 1s in morale tests, before

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Ruthless already accumulates 3 action tokens, this action
(requires all-out attack, af fects saving throw incurs no fatigue for obvious reasons.

These troops are more vicious when they can see Remove the character from the table and
the enemy faltering. count it as a casualty as if it had been killed by
the enemy. No friendly troops are required to
When executing an all-out-attack action against take a morale test due to the death of this char-
an enemy that currently accumulates more acter, they are in fact inspired by this honorable
fatigue than this unit, all hits gain a -1 save act. Note that a character might need to take
modifier. this dramatic action to deny the enemy the
opportunity to kill the character themselves
The Old Ways
and gain a head token or to avoid triggering
(af fects morale break points)
morale tests for nearby friendly troops.
These warriors still obser ve a traditional warfare
code dating from the time of the Gempei wars and 3.3.3 Physical Traits
are bound by classical samurai traditions Physical traits represent exceptional physical
When a character with this trait kills an enemy characteristics of the troops.
character with the same trait in hand-to-hand
Attacks (X)
combat, the owning player can immediately
add an action token to this model to decapitate These soldiers have superior combat capabilities
the enemy character and earn a “head token”. compared to other troops. This allows them to
Adding this action token is not an action itself execute additional attacks in melee.
and no fatigue is gained, nor can it be interrupt- Models with the Attack (x) trait contribute a
ed by the enemy. Of course, this is not possible if higher number of attacks when deciding the
the character has already accumulated 3 action total number of attacks that the unit can use for
tokens. any of the melee combat mechanics described
Players accumulate head tokens through the in the rules.
game and at the end of each turn the side that
has fewer head tokens suffers a -1 to the dice roll Wounds (X)
if forced to take a force break test.
These soldiers are very resilient and can sustain
If a character with this trait starts an action additional wounds before they are taken out of
within 4” of an enemy character with the same action.
trait and ends their action more than 4” from
Models with the Wound (x) trait are only
any enemy character with this trait, friendly
removed once they have sustained a number of
units or characters with line of sight to the ene-
wounds equal to the x number.
my character and within 10” must immediately
Wounds that are not enough to kill the model
take a 1D6 morale test.
are simply marked next to the model with a cor-
A character with this trait can execute a spe-
responding counter.
cial action called seppuku, ritual suicide. It is
an action so this cannot be done if a character

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 4

Other Tools of War

4.1 Light Cannon

Although cannons and heavy artillery were
usually reserved for assaulting castles and forti-
fications, some armies did bring light versions
of artillery to the battlefield.
The light cannon costs 64 points, this does not
include the points for any crew. Crew options
will be available in the army list.
When determining your force classification
each crew will count as two rare models, but the
cannon model itself is ignored. For example, a
Turning in place
cannon with two crew counts as four rare mod-
A cannon can be turned in place to face any desired
els. Cannons are never grouped in units, each
direction. Unlike moving, the cannon can turn
cannon and crew are a unit of their own.
even if only one crew member remains.
For all other game purposes, the crew are con-
Turning the cannon counts as a regular move
sidered just as any other model and the cannon
action, without the additional fatigue indicated
is simply part of their equipment.
above.
Movement
Shooting
To move a light cannon, a crew of at least two is
As long as one crew member remains a light
required, if only one crewman remains it cannot
cannon shoots using the shoot action, however
be moved.
they ignore the +1 Fatigue modifier and only gain
The cannon may be moved up to 2” by the
fatigue as indicated from the fatigue table. After
crew executing a move action but this action
a shoot action the cannon gains three unloaded
will incur an additional +1 fatigue beyond what
tokens. Each ready action executed by the crew,
is indicated in the fatigue chart. This may be a
removes one unloaded token. If only one crewman
move in any direction and the cannon may end
remains then each ready action that removes an
up in any desired facing.
unloaded token will result in gaining one fatigue
The cannon cannot enter or move over rough
point.
or broken terrain, nor can it be moved over lin-
When doing a shoot action the player must
ear obstacles.
choose to shoot either solid shot or case shot.

45
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Solid shot that characters can be a target even if they are
The light cannon attacks all the units in a not the closest enemy.You may not ignore units
straight path along the direction of the facing or characters at a different elevation
going through the center of the model up to a Roll 1D6 per model in the target unit up to a
range of 48”. Characters are always ignored if maximum of 12D6. Each roll of 5+ will cause a hit
in the aiming path, their situational awareness on the target unit, all normal modifiers apply
allows them to duck. except that the shield overlap trait is ignored. If
A unit that is attacked will suffer 1 to-hit-roll a unit being attacked is in close order apply a +1
per every four models or fraction thereof i.e. 1 modifier to the to-hit roll thus looking for a tar-
die up to 4 models, 2 dice from 5 to 8 models, get number of 4+.
and so on. All hits gain a -1 save modifier to the target and
Each roll of 4+ will cause a hit on the target if the target is forced to take morale test add an
unit, all normal modifiers apply except that the additional D6 to the test just as if an extra casual-
shield overlap trait is ignored. If a unit being ty had been received.
attacked is in close order apply a +1 modifier to
the to-hit roll thus looking for a target number of The Light cannon in melee
3+. No other modifiers apply. The light cannon cannot execute attack or all-out
attack, however if attacked in melee by an enemy
All hits gain a -3 save modifier to the target.
the crew will fight and can adopt any valid com-
If the first unit in the shooting path is forced to
bat response. Independently of the melee results
take a morale test, the player must add an addi-
or combat response, unless the light cannon is
tional D6 to the test just as if an extra casualty
eliminated the attacker must always retreat.
had been received.
The cannon may shoot over targets at different Eliminating the light cannon
elevation on the same straight line, observing the Any melee and missile attacks against the light
LOS rules detailed in CLASH of Spears (page 24), cannon are always resolved against the crew.
however when shooting at a target at a different Once the last crew members is killed remove
elevation only the target unit is hit, other units the cannon from the table.
in the path are not hit. The target unit suffers the
additional D6 for morale as explained above. Light cannons during the engagement phase
Any terrain that blocks line of sight interrupts During the engagement phase assign the light
the shooting path, and any units further down cannon a deployment token as you would to oth-
the path are not hit. For example the shooting er units. The light cannon never provides scout-
path will not go through two edges of high area ing tokens no matter what armor the crew has.
terrain, and thus any units behind interposing The cannon’s deployment counter is used nor-
woods will not be affected by the solid shot mally just like other counters; however, you may
not enter or move through rough/broken terrain
Case Shot or cross obstacles. When replacing the token
The light cannon attacks the first unit or char- with the light cannon the unit gains one fatigue
acter in line of sight and in a straight path along for each move taken after the first one, e.g two
the direction of the facing going through the cen- fatigues if the cannon did three moves.
ter of the model up to a range of 8”. This means

46
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Example of solid shot attack
A cannon wishes to shoot at enemy troops.
The cannon unit has no action tokens and no
fatigue, so it gets activated without the need of a
CP or the need to do activation test.
As a first action the player turns the cannon in
place to aim at two enemy units. One of the ene-
my units attempts to react but fails the reaction
test.
The cannon now shoots, and the player declares a
solid shot attack.
First in the path is a character, but his situational
awareness allows him to duck and he is ok.
The next unit is a six-man Ashigaru unit in loose and 6. Two hits are scored. After two failed saving
order, so 2D6 are rolled looking for 4+. The rolls throws, two models are removed. The unit must
are 3 and 5, so one hit is scored. After a failed roll a 3D6 test, one D6 plus 2D6 due to the two
attempted saving throw, one model is removed. casualties. The player fails two of the dice rolls
The unit must test morale with 3D6, one D6 plus and the unit gains two fatigues, and it is forced
one for the casualty and one more for being the into open order and is stalled.
first unit in the path hit by the cannon. The unit The cannon gains 3 unloaded markers and the
fails one of the three dice and gains one fatigue. owning player declares a third action. The enemy
Next is a nine-man Ashigaru unit in close order, does not attempt any reactions. The cannon does
so 3D6 are rolled looking for 3+. The rolls are 1, 3 a ready action and removes one unloaded marker.
The activation is over.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 4.2 Hwacha
During the Imjin war Korean forces would some- Shooting
times utilize an early type of light rocket/arrow At the start of the game place 5 ammo counters
launcher called Hwacha next to the Hwacha. When the unit executes a
The Hwacha costs 58 points, this does not ready action it gains a ready counter and the play-
include the points for any crew. Crew options er must transfer a desired number of ammo count-
will be available in the army list, all crew gain the ers and place them on top of the ready counter to
Independent trait for free. indicate how much ammo will be used.
When determining your force classification If the next action that the Hwacha executes is
each crew will count as two rare models, but the not a shoot action or if the unit does not execute
Hwacha model itself is ignored. For example, a a shoot action before the end of turn the ready
Hwacha with two crew counts as four rare models. token and ammo counters are removed and the
Hwachas are never grouped in units, each Hwacha ammo is wasted.
and crew are a unit of their own. When the Hwacha executes a shoot action, it
For all other game purposes, the crew are con- does not observe an arc of fire, the player selects
sidered just as any other model and the Hwacha is a target unit in a straight path in the direction
simply part of their equipment. it is currently aiming and within a range of 20”.
The Hwacha must be able to trace line of sight
Movement to the target, however it may trace line of sight
To move a Hwacha a crew of at least two is over any units in the aiming path that are more
required, if only one crewman remains it cannot than 4” away from the target. As usual, char-
be moved. acters cannot be targeted unless they are the
The Hwacha may be moved up to 2” by the crew closest visible enemy.
executing a move action but this action will incur When the Hwacha shoots apply the fatigue
an additional +1 fatigue beyond what is indicated table but do not count the additional +1 from
in the fatigue chart. This may be a move in any the shoot action.
direction and the Hwacha may end up in any
The attacker rolls one to-hit roll per model up to
desired facing.
a maximum of twelve rolls.
The Hwacha cannot enter or move over rough
To the determine the to hit target for the roll use
or broken terrain, nor can it be moved over lin-
the following table instead of the ranged stat of
ear obstacles.
the crew:

Turning in place
A Hwacha can be turned in place to face any AMMO POINTS REQUIRED TO HIT
SPENT ROLL
desired direction. Unlike moving, the Hwacha
can turn even if only one crew member remains. 1 6+

Turning the Hwacha counts as a regular 2 5+

move action, without the additional fatigue 3 4+
indicated above. 4 3+
5 2+

48
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Apply a -1 to hit roll if attacking a unit beyond ammo counters, if failed the Hwacha gains one
4”, and an additional -1 if attacking a unit ammo counter.If a ready action is executed
beyond 8” for a total of -2. while only one crew remains only add one
Apply a -1 to hit if line of sight was traced over ammo counter.
any units in the aiming path. The Hwacha may never add ammo counters
Do not apply any fatigue modifiers to the to-hit above five, any excess is ignored.
roll, other to-hit modifiers apply as normal.
The Hwacha in melee
Any hits receive a +1 save modifier.
The Hwacha cannot execute attack or all-out
The Hwacha has significant impact on enemy attack, however if attacked in melee by an
morale. A unit that needs to take a morale test enemy the crew will fight and can adopt any
must add 1D6 as if they had received an addi- valid combat response. Unless the Hwacha is
tional casualty. eliminated, the attacker must always retreat
after melee independently of fatigue gained or
Reloading
combat response chosen.
When a Hwacha with two or more crew mem-
bers executes a ready action roll a test against
the grit stat, if passed the Hwacha gains two

49
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Example of Hwacha attack
The Hwacha activates to shoot at the enemy,
with no need of CPs or test since it accumu-
lates no action tokens or fatigue at this time.
As a first action the player turns to aim.
The enemy attempts to react and fails.
The player now indicates that the Hwacha
does a ready action and will use all 5 ammo
tokens, placing a ready token and putting all
ammo token on top of it.
The enemy attempts to react but fails.
Now the Hwacha shoots, the player chooses
to shoot at the second unit in the path.
The player rolls nine D6, one per model, dice, 1D6 + 3D6 for casualties +1D6 for Hwacha.
looking for 4+; 2+ for 5 ammo spent, -1 for over Fails two and gains 2 fatigues.
4” and -1 for tracing line of sight over another
The Hwacha has done three actions and has
unit. The player rolls, 1,2,2,3,4,4,5,5,6 scoring 5
no ammo tokens remaining
hits!
so it will not be able to shoot
The enemy attempts 5 saving throws, 5+ for again until it spends some ready
full armor and a +1 modifier from the Hwacha actions regaining ammo tokens.
makes it a 4+. The player saves 2 of the hits and SEE
EXAMPLE
3 models are removed.
The enemy must then test morale with 5

Eliminating the Hwacha The Hwacha never provides scouting tokens no

Any melee and missile attacks against the matter what armor the crew has.
Hwacha are always resolved against the crew. The Hwacha’ s deployment counter is used
Due to the Hwacha’s bulkiness the crew counts normally just like other counters; however, you
as in cover against all missile attacks. may not enter or move through rough/broken
Once the last crew member is eliminated terrain or cross obstacles. When replacing
remove the Hwacha model from the table. the token with the Hwacha the unit gains one
fatigue for each move taken after the first, eg.
The Hwacha during the engagement phase Gain two fatigue points if three moves were exe-
During the engagement phase assign Hwacha cuted during the deployment phase.
a deployment token as you would to other units.

50
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 51
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 5

Pickup Game Scenarios

New Scenarios Table size

The following scenarios expand the selection Just like in the CLASH of Spears core rulebook,
available in the core CLASH of Spears rulebook, all the additional scenarios in this book are
section 10 Pickup Game Scenarios designed to be played on a 4’x4’ table, but you
When selecting which scenario to play you can can easily adjust them to a 4’x3’ table by remov-
roll a D10 and consult this new expanded table: ing 6’ from each table side adjusting the victory
conditions and scenario placement; and deploy-
ing your deployment counters at the table edge.
ROLL SCENARIO

1-2 This is my Land! Army selection and standard games

3 Foraging Duty You will notice that the armies in CLASH of
4 Pre-Battle Scouting Katanas are slightly more expensive in points.
5 Force Projection This is a result of the fact that we use a unified
6 Retrieval point system across periods and these armies
7 Capture the Envoy rely less on light troops than those armies cov-
8 River Crossing ered in the previous books.
9 Harass and Disrupt Because of this, and based on playtesting,
10 Reconnaissance in force we recommend using 1000 points for standard
games rather than the 900 pts recommended in
the core rulebook. This will allow players to have
more flexibility when building their armies.
NOT E: This is of course just our recommendation;
It appears that in the scenar ios in the core rule- players should know that we have found CLASH
book it was not made explicit who must place the to work well with armies ranging from 600 pts
deployment counters f irst. all the way to 2000 pts per side.

This is not ver y critical given the fact that what the
counters represent is unknown to your opponent
but in all scenarios the player that won the coin toss
during the “Determine Force Fate Points” step ( see
9.2 of CLASH of Spears) must place all their tokens
f irst and then the other player does the same before
moving on to the engagement phase.

53
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 deployment counters first. During the deploy-
5.1 Capture the envoy
ment phase any deployment counter that ends a
An important personality is crossing move within 14” of the envoy token is locked as
through this area and two opposing they are detected by the envoy escort.
forces are trying to capture this envoy
for political reasons.
5.12 Special Rules, the envoy
The envoy token represents an important per-
sonality crossing the table with a dedicated
bodyguard.
The envoy is accompanied by four body
guards, you may place the models next to the
token or simply record with a die on the envoy
when they are killed in battle.
They are equipped with full armor and hand
weapons and have a combat stat of 4, never take
morale tests or gain any fatigue.
At the start of the end phase the envoy token
moves 8” forward along the road but must stop
5.11 Scenario Setup if the move would get the token within 1” of any
Place a road crossing the table from one side models that are at least partially occupying the
edge to the other. Players then choose opposite road ahead. This movement is reduced by 4” if
sides of the table and proceed to add terrain the bodyguards accumulated any action tokens
according to the terrain set up rules in CLASH during the turn.
of Spears. No terrain can be placed overlapping If the token ever touches the opposing side
the road. edge, then it is removed from the table.
For this scenario you will need a model or The opposing forces need to defeat the body-
token representing the envoy and the escort. We guards and capture the envoy.
recommend a token that can roughly fit in a 3” Any unit/character can execute attack or all-
square base. out-attack actions against the envoy token, but
After both players have placed their deploy- nobody can do missile attacks against the envoy
ment counters and just before either player token. They would not risk hurting the envoy.
takes the first engagement turn roll a D6, if the When attacked, the bodyguard will always
total is odd place the envoy token on the road so choose defend as a combat response and gain
that the front of the token is at 8” from the west an action token, however the attacker always
table edge looking east. If the total is even, place retreat unless the body guards are exterminat-
the token looking west so that the front is 8” ed. If the envoy token has already executed 3
from the east table edge. actions, the bodyguard will select hold.
The deployment phase takes place at dawn, As soon as the last bodyguard is killed, replace
the player that won the coin toss during the the envoy token with a single figure represent-
“Determine Force Fate Points” places all their ing the envoy in base-to-base contact with the

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 unit that defeated the bodyguards. the end of the turn then remove the envoy from
Any unit/character in contact with the envoy the table (an escort will carry the envoy back to
can capture the envoy by executing a ready action the Daimyo). At the end of any turn in which the
if the unit is on foot, or two ready actions if the envoy has been removed from the table in this
unit is mounted. Place the envoy model with that manner the game ends and the opponent force
unit or character. breaks. The side that extracted the envoy wins a
If the unit/character currently holding the envoy major victory.
captive is exterminated, place the envoy in base- If at the end of a turn both sides need to take a
to-base contact with the unit that exterminated break test, and one side has captured the envoy,
them. A character escorting the envoy can be then only the other side must take the break test.
attacked in melee even if it is not the closest ene- The game ends when a side breaks or when the
my, as everyone is aware of the envoy’s presence. number of turns ends as per the Game Length
Nobody can execute missile attacks against a unit rules in CLASH of Spears.
or character escorting the envoy. If a side breaks the opponent wins a major victo-
ry. If the envoy was being escorted by the side that
5.13 Victory conditions broke, it is assumed that the enemy recaptures the
At the end of each turn add the break points for envoy during the pursuit.
casualties for each side. If the game ends with no sid e breaking add the
In addition to the break point for casualties a breakpoints from casualties and if a side currently
side that currently has the envoy captured by one has the envoy captured then add two more break
of their units/characters puts an additional break points to the opposite side.
point on the enemy for that turn. The side with fewer break points wins a minor
If the unit/character that has captured the envoy victory if the difference is one break point or a
is within 12” of the side own table edge, then the major victory if the difference is two or more
enemy gains an additional break point for a total break points.
of 2. If they have the same number of break points
If the unit/character that has captured the the side with control of the envoy wins a minor
envoy is in contact with their side’s table edge at victory, else the game is a draw.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 “Determine Force Fate Points” places all their
5.2 River Crossing
deployment counters first. Due to the morning
Two enemy forces are trying to get a mist all counters will count as In Cover and so
foothold across a river. This could be the detection range is reduced to 16” instead of the
prelude to a larger battle or simply a spe- standard 20”.
cial action aimed at gaining strategical
Any deployment counter that ends an engage-
terrain advantage in the context of an
ment move within 6” of the river is automati-
ongoing campaign.
cally locked as they have entered the area were
both commanders expect to encounter enemy
forces.

5.22 Special Rules, searching for fords

Troops can explore the river to find additional
fords to facilitate crossing. When a unit/charac-
ter ends a move action in contact with the river
edge and within 4” of one of the objective mark-
ers the player that owns that unit/character
must roll a D6. On a roll of three or less no ford
is present, simply remove the objective marker.
If the player rolls four or more then a ford has
been found, place a ford terrain piece centered
5.21 Scenario Setup
on the objective counter that should be at least
Place a river crossing the middle of the table
3” wide. The ford is considered rough terrain.
from east to west as seen on the scenario map, a
The roll for detecting a ford cannot be affected
road crossing the center of the table from south
by fate points, since the roll is not against the
to north, and a bridge at the center of the bat-
troops stats.
tlefield. The River should be at least 4” wide. The
bridge should be at least 3” wide.
Players choose sides and add terrain according 5.23 Victory conditions
to the terrain set up rules in CLASH of Spears. At the end of each turn add the break points for
No terrain piece can be placed overlapping the casualties for each side.
river. In addition to the break point for casual-
The river is considered broken terrain. ties, each side will accumulate victory points
depending on how many units have crossed the
Place two objective markers as indicated on
river.
the map. These objective markers show the pos-
sible location of fords that could be discovered At the end of each turn consider how many
during the battle. units of each side have crossed the river. The
units must have at least 3 models and must
The deployment phase takes place at dawn,
be entirely on the opposite side of the river.
the player that won the coin toss during the

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Evaluate these conditions at the end of each
turn and add the following to the break points
from casualties:
⿓ If the enemy has more units than you
that have crossed the river you add +1 to
your break points total.

⿓ If the enemy has crossed the river with

two or more units, then you add +1 to
your break points total.
Both conditions could apply simultaneously
for a +2 to your total break points, however
these are not accumulated from turn to turn
and must be re-evaluated each turn to see if
they still apply.
Armies take force break tests as usual but if
both sides need to take a break test, only the
side with fewer units across the river must test.
If both sides have the same number of units
across the river, they both test.
At the end of turn 5 if no side has broken
check to see if another turn is played as indicat-
ed on section 9.5 of the CLASH of Spears book.
The game ends when a side breaks, and the
opponent earns a major victory.
If at the end of the last turn of the game no
side has broken count the total number break
points including those for having crossed the
river as indicated before.
The side with fewer break points wins a minor
victory if the difference is one break point, or
a major victory if the difference is two or more
break points.
If both sides have the same number of break
points the side with more units across the river
wins a minor victory, else the game is a draw.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Deployment counters must be placed in the
5.3 Break through enemy lines
respective shaded areas as seen on the scenario
In this scenario two opposing forces
map.
have been tasked with disrupting the
enemy line.
5.22 Victory conditions
This could be an important logistics
Your main objective is to threaten the objective
or communication line for the enemy.
markers on your opponent side of the table and
By projecting the reach of your threat to
the center objective marker.
harass the enemy line you could force
An objective marker is considered threatened
the enemy to alter their battle plan or
when you have a unit of at least 3 models within
sacrifice the initiative.
4” of the objective, irrespective of any enemy
The objective is to break through the
forces in the area.
enemy line while preventing them from
At the end of each turn add the break points
doing the same to you thus forcing the
for casualties for each side.
opposing army to react and commit
additional resources to this area. In addition to the break point for casualties
count the number of objectives that each side is
threatening.
The side threatening fewer objectives will
gain additional break points for that turn. If the
difference is 1 objective, they gain 1 break point,
if the difference is 2 or more then they gain 2
break points.
These conditions are evaluated each turn and
those break points don’t accumulate and can
change from turn to turn as the battle condi-
tions change.
You can only threaten the objective markers
in your opponent’s side of the table or the one at
5.21 Scenario Setup the center of the table.
Before setting up terrain place two objective
Armies take force break tests as usual but if
markers 16” away from each table side and 12”
both sides must test and one side is threatening
away from the northern table edge, the same on
more objectives that the other only the side
the southern table edge and one objective mark-
threatening fewer objectives must test.
er at the center of the table.
At the end of turn 5 if no side has broken
Players then select sides and add terrain
check to see if another turn is played as indicat-
according to the terrain set up rules in CLASH of
ed on section 9.5 of the CLASH of Spears book.
Spears. When placing terrain, you may not place
If a side breaks the other side earns a major
any terrain overlapping any of the objective
victory.
markers.
If no side breaks and the final turn is over
The deployment phase takes place at dawn,
count the break points at the end of the final

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 turn as explained before for other turns. The
side with fewer breakpoints wins the game, if
the difference is two or more break points, then
it is a major victory, if it is 1 then it is a minor
victory.
If the sides are tied in break points, the side
threatening more objective wins a minor victo-
ry, else the game ends in a draw.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 5.4 Reconnaissance in Force impassable terrain overlapping any of the
objective markers.
Two enemy warlords have reached a
stalemate situation with the armies fac- The deployment phase takes place at
ing each other. dawn, the player that won the coin toss
during the “Determine Force Fate Points”
Both sides have deployed probing forc-
places all their deployment counters first.
es that are trying to find a weakness in
Deployment counters must be placed in the
the enemy line.
respective shaded areas as seen on the sce-
Your objective is to prevent the enemy
nario map.
from discovering and threatening that
weak spot behind your lines while try-
ing to find your opponents weakness. 5.42 Special rules, find the weak spot
As soon as any of your units of at least 3 mod-
els ends their action within 8” of either of the
objetive markers on the enemy side of the
table, your opponent must reveal if it is the
real objective or the dummy marker and the
dummy marker is removed from the table.

5.43 Victory conditions

Your main objective is to threaten the objective
markers mid table and those on your oppo-
nent’s side of the table.
An objective marker is considered threat-
ened when you have a unit of at least 3 mod-
5.41 Scenario Setup els within 4” of the objective, irrespective of
Before setting up terrain place two objec- any enemy forces in the area.
tive markers 16” away from the table sides At the end of each turn add the break
and mid table. points for casualties for each side.
Players then select sides and place two In addition to the break point for casu-
additional objectives 14” from their table alties count the number of objectives that
edge directly aligned with the mid table each side is threatening.
objective markers.
The side threatening fewer objectives will
One of the objective markers they place is gain additional break points for that turn.
real and the other one is secretly marked as If the difference is 1 objective, they gain 1
a dummy objective. The player placing the break point, if the difference is 2 or more
objective knows which one is which but the then they gain 2 break points.
opponent does not.
These conditions are evaluated each turn
Add terrain according to the terrain set and those break points don’t accumulate
up rules in CLASH of Spears. When placing and can change from turn to turn as the
terrain, you may not place any broken or battle conditions change.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 You can only threaten the objective mark- If a side breaks the other side earns a
ers in your opponent’s side or the ones mid major victory.
table. If no side breaks and the final turn is
Armies take force break tests as usual over count the break points at the end of
but if both sides must test and one side is the final turn as explained before for other
threatening more objectives that the other turns. The side with fewer breakpoints wins
only the side threatening fewer objectives the game, if the difference is two or more
must test. break points, then it is a major victory, if it
At the end of turn 5 if no side has broken is 1 then it is a minor victory.
check to see if another turn is played as If the sides are tied in break points the
indicated on section 9.5 of the CLASH of side threatening more objective wins a
Spears book. minor victory, else the game ends in a draw.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6

Armies of the Sengoku Period

6.1 Building your Warband 6.11 Character models

All forces in CLASH of Katanas must fol- We have used standard ranks that were used in
low either the Muster Warband or Ad-Hoc common hierarchies across different armies of
Warband organization according as indicate in the period. The titles for different ranks would
the core rules. vary from force to force depending on their orga-
nization and hierarchical structure so these are
A warband must always include at least one
used as a guidance.
character level II or higher and the number of
characters in the warband can never exceed
the number of line units in the force.

Leaders for Samurai clans except for the Otomo clan

CHAR AC T ER CBT RNG GRIT CP CR SAVE EQUIPMENT TRAITS PTS

Wounds(3), Attacks(3), Iron Will, Honorable,
Lvl 5 Taisho 3 5 3 5 10” 4+ Enclosed Armor The Old Ways
158

Wounds(3), Attacks(2), Iron Will, Honorable,

Level 4 Kumigashira 3 5 3 4 10” 4+ Enclosed Armor The Old Ways
128

Wounds(2), Attacks(2), Iron Will, Honorable,

Level 3 Kogashira 3 5 3 3 8” 4+ Enclosed Armor The Old Ways
98

Level 2 Veteran Warrior 3 5 3 2 8” 4+ Enclosed Armor Wounds(2), Iron Will, Honorable, The Old Ways 68

Armor Options:
⿓ Remove armor (-5 pts per model), 7+ save stat

⿓ Downgrade to partial armor (-3 points per model), 6+ save stat

⿓ Downgrade to full armor (-2 points per model), 5+ save stat

⿓ Make armor improved (+1 pts per model)

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 Leaders for the Otomo clan, and all other factions

CHAR AC T ER CBT RNG GRIT CP CR SAVE EQUIPMENT TRAITS PTS

Lvl 5 Commander 3 5 3 5 10” 5+ Full Armor Wounds(3), Attacks(3), Iron Will 154

Level 4 Officer 3 5 3 4 10” 5+ Full Armor Wounds(3), Attacks(2), Iron Will 124

Level 3 Captain 3 5 3 3 8” 5+ Full Armor Wounds(2), Attacks(2), Iron Will 94

Level 2 Veteran Warrior 3 5 3 2 8” 5+ Full Armor Wounds(2), Iron Will 64

Armor Options:
⿓ Remove armor (-3 pts per model), 7+ save stat

⿓ Downgrade to partial armor (-1 points per model), 6+ save stat

⿓ Upgrade to enclosed armor (+2 points per model), 4+ save stat

⿓ Make armor improved (+1 pts per model)

Weapon and trait options available to

all factions You may purchase one missile weapon for your
You may purchase only one of the following character, however if you do that and you have
weapons for your characters: purchased a melee weapon then you must pur-
chase the “extra equipment trait:”
⿓ Long Spear (+1 pts per model)
⿓ Arquebus (+3 pts)
⿓ Polearm (+2 pts per model)
⿓ Warbow (+3pts)
⿓ Heavy weapon (+2 pts per model)
⿓ Extra Equipment(X) (+1pts)
⿓ Additional hand weapon and off-hand
parry trait (+1pts per model)
A character may be mounted on a horse to gain
the mounted trait (+ 4pts per model), but then
you may not arm them with Heavy weapon.

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 6.12 Warband Options

Musicians (15pts)

You can attach a musician to one of your char- Tsukaiban (10 pts) – messenger-
acters, the musician will use a drum (Taiko) or If the army list allows it, you may include up to
the Conch Shell (Horagai). The model remains one Tsukaiban per each level 4 or level 5 char-
in base-to-base contact with the character and acter in your force. The Tsukaiban follows the
extend the command range to 16” but only to rules presented earlier in this supplement.
activate units. When checking command range
Geisha (15 or 20 pts)
to attempt a reaction use the command range of
If the army list allows it, you may include up
the character ignoring the effect of the musician.
to one Geisha in your force. If your force has
The musician is never targeted,
a Geisha, you’ll be able to perform the Tea
nor can they fight, and is removed
Ceremony at the start of the battle. If you have a
if the character model is elimi-
painted model to place on the side of the table
nated from the game without any
LEARN you can purchase a Geisha for 15 pts, if you don’t
additional effect. MORE
you may still purchase a Geisha, but it will cost
Standard Bearer (15 pts) you 20 pts.
You can attach a standard bearer to a character,
Portable Buddhist Shrine (10 pts)
this could be a Nobori or a Jirushi.
If the army list allows it, you may purchase
The model remains in base-to-base contact
a portable shrine or a large banner with a
with the character at all times. If a character
Goishun (handwritten shrine seal). The shrine
with an attached standard bearer attempts to
was brought to war to unnerve the enemy sol-
rally a unit within command range the play-
diers who knew that it was considered blasphe-
er may re-roll any dice that failed to recover
my to engage in violence in the presence of the
fatigue in the attempt.
shrine, unless of course you were a member of
The standard bearer is never targeted, nor the Ikko Ikki.
can they fight, and is removed if the character
The shrine model must be placed within 6” of
model is eliminated from the game without any
your table edge. If your force includes a portable
additional effect.

Assasins (59 or 89 pts)

Any force may include up to one Assassin. This
limit applies to the force overall, so you cannot
increase the number of assassins through the
use of allied warbands.
If you are building an Iga/Koga force you can
either include an Assassin or a Master Assassin.
You may not purchase any equipment for
the Assassin or Master Assassin, they come
equipped as indicated in Chapter 2 of this book.

65
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 shrine you may re-roll the result when attempt- Soothsayer (15 or 20pts)
ing the Nembutsu Chants. If the army list allows it, you may purchase a
If an enemy model ends up in base-to-base soothsayer for your force. If your force includes a
contact with the shrine, remove the shrine from Soothsayer you may re-roll the result of consult-
the table. This has no effect on the game as at ing the omens before the battle.
that point the fate will be determined in the The Soothsayer never joins the battle remain-
battlefield and not in the spiritual world. ing in the rear ranks with the support staff. If
you have a painted Soothsayer model that you
Sake rations (10 pts) can place next to the table you can purchase the
If the army list allows it, an enterprising war- Soothsayer for 15 pts. If you don’t have a painted
lord might choose to make sake rations avail- Soothsayer model you can still include it in your
able to their warriors to better predispose them force but it will cost you 20 pts.
before giving a Rousing Speech.
If you purchase sake rations for your force you
may re-roll the result when attempting to give a
Rousing Speech.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.2 Allied contingents ⿓ All the models in the allied warband
When building a force for CLASH of Katanas gain the trait Allies.
you can employ allies from other lists indicat- ⿓ Characters from the core warband can
ed on the alliance table below. If two oppos- command units and characters from
ing sides have chosen the same ally, you can the allied warband but must spend an
simply assume that different vassals of the additional CP to do so and vice versa,
main clan are supporting opposing sides at unless the allied warband is from a list
indicated as close allies, in which case
this moment in time.
the additional CP is not required as
explained on page 119 of the CLASH of
M AIN FORCE ALLIES
Spears rulebook.
Chosokabe Toyotomi, Iga

Date Toyotomi, Iga

Hojo Takeda, Uesugi, Oda/Tokugawa, Iga

Mori Ikko Ikki,Toyotomi, Iga, Wako/Bandits

Oda/Tokugawa Hojo, Iga (close allies)

Otomo Toyotomi, Iga

Takeda Uesugi, Hojo,Iga

Date, Mori, Chosokabe, Otomo,

Toyotomi
Uesugi,Iga

Ikko Ikki (close allies), Hojo,

Uesugi
Toyotomi,Iga

Shimazu Iga, Toyotomi

Iga warriors Wako/Bandits

Wako/Bandits Iga, Mori

Ikko Ikki Uesugi, Mori

Ming Chinese Joseon Korean (close allies)

Joseon Korean Ming Chinese (close allies)

The allied warband must follow all the

rules for an independent warband, so it must
include at least a level II character, may not
have more characters than line units in the
force and must adhere either to the Muster or
Ad-Hoc warband structure.
⿓ For the whole force to be considered
Muster, both the core warband and the
allied warband must be Muster Warbands.

⿓ Your force cannot include more than

one assassin, so if your core warband
includes an assassin you may not
include one in your allied warband.

67
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Japan circa 1570-1580

HONSHU

SHIKOKU

KYUSHU

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3 The Samurai Clans
The following army lists represent a selection If you aim to represent Samurai armies of the
of the troop types available to some of the most end of period, around the time of Sekigahara,
prominent clans during the Sengoku Jidai. or during the attempted invasion of Korea and
Each clan is characterized by fundamental China, the Imjin War, you could choose to build
warfare doctrines associated with that clan. forces using the Oda/Tokugawa/Toyotomi list as
However, over the Sengoku period most clans this reflects the type of force to which most of
evolved in style of warfare so that by the time of the clans evolved over time.
Sekigahara in 1600, most armies had adopted
similar doctrines and troop types.
We have roughly aimed to represent the clans
as they might have looked in the later period
of the age of the Warring States, after the wide-
spread adoption of the teppo but before the
standardization mentioned above.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.1 SHIMAZU
During the Sengoku Jidai the Shimazu clan
saw great expansion, eventually coming to
dominate most of the island of Kyushu under
the leadership of Shimazu Yoshihisa. As they
clashed with the Otomo clan, after their initial
success, they were pushed back to Satsuma prov-
ince but only after Otomo Sorin found support
from Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s invasion of Kyushu.
The Shimazu participated in the invasion of
SHIMAZU Korea during the Imjin war and would join the
western army under Ishida Mitsunari during
SPECIAL OP T IONS: the battle of Sekigahara. A clan with a long
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas- tradition, tracing origins to the Minamoto clan,
sin; your force can also include a the Shimazu would continue to shine as one of
Geisha. During pre-battle scout- the most renowned Samurai clans for years to
ing your commander can either come.
Give a Rousing Speech or if your
The Shimazu were among the first clans to
force includes a Geisha, you may
engage in trade with Europeans and they ben-
perform the Tea Ceremony.
efited greatly from that trade. They were also
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to early adopters of European firearms, as such
each level 4 or level 5 your force will have great access to well-trained
character in your force
Teppo Ashigaru and even Teppo Samurai. Still,
for 10pts each.
to be successful, a Shimazu commander will be
LEARN sure to support their teppos with strong melee
MORE
infantry and cavalry.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 SHIMAZU LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Levy Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Pike Partial Armor Harinezumi, Uteya 12

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Levy Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor 12

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist, Volley 16

Options: add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Skirmish Specialist, Aimed Shot
Yumi Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Overhead Shot
17
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Milites 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Aimed Shot, Honorable 23
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Rain of Blows, Honorable,
Daisho Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 21
Hand Weapon Off-Hand Parry
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 26
(mounted)
Options:-

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Honorable, Form Up, Massed
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Charge
Options:-

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Rain of Blows, Honorable, Off-Hand
Hatamoto Daisho Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 23
Hand Weapon Parry, Duty Bound, Iron Will
Options: remove armor (-5pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Arquebus Enclosed Armor Honorable 22

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2 pts)

71
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.2 OTOMO
The Otomo clan was one of the most renowned
clans in the island of Kyushu since before the
time of the Mongol invasions.
During the Sengoku period Otomo Sorin
would become the most prominent Daimyo. He
initially engaged in conflict with the Mori clan,
successfully pushing them back from the north-
ern side of Kyushu.
Now in control of most of the island, conflict
OTOMO with Shimazu was inevitable. However, this
time it was Shimazu that would prevail and
SPECIAL OP T IONS: come to dominate, and it was only later in 1587
⿓ Your army may include 1 assassin, that Otomo would regain a position of power,
your force can also include a now as supporters of Toyotomi Hideyoshi as he
Geisha. During pre-battle scout- took control of Kyushu.
ing your commander can either
The Otomo was another clan to embrace
Give a Rousing Speech or if your
contact with Europeans traders, Otomo Sorin
force includes a Geisha you may
perform the Tea Ceremony. converted to Christianity changing his name
to Otomo Francisco, and Portuguese allies even
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to
supported the clan’s war against the Mori.
each level 4 or level 5
character in your force
for 10pts each.

LEARN
MORE

72
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 OTOMO LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Ful Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: downgrade to Partial Armor (-1 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Levy Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor Volley 13

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley 16

Options: downgrade to Partial Armor (-1pt)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 17
Options: downgrade to Partial Armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, furor 23

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined Arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade to Full Armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Furor 22
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Massed Charge, Form Up 25
Spear
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Teppo Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Arquebus Enclosed Armor Mounted, Mounted Gunnery 26
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Aimed Shot 22

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved
European Mercenaries Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 6+ Arquebus Volley, Rotational Fire 21
Partial Armor
Options: remove armor ( -3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Rain of Blows, Off-Hand Parry,
Hatamoto Daisho Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 23
Hand Weapon Brotherhood, Duty Bound, Iron Will
Options: upgrade to Improved Enclosed Armor (+1 pts), remove armor (-5pts)

73
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.3 CHOSOKABE
The Chosokabe clan became the dominant
power in the island of Shikoku during the age
of the Warring States under the leadership of
Chosokabe Motochika.
In 1585 Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s forces invaded
the island and the Chosokabe became vassals
of Hideyoshi.
The Chosokabe later supported Toyotomi’s
invasion of Kyushu and would also join the
CHOSOKABE invasion of Korea in 1592-1598.
At the battle of Sekigahara they joined the
SPECIAL OP T IONS: western army. After this campaign they lost
⿓ Your army may include 1 assassin, their position of power and went into decline.
your force can also include a
Your more traditionalist Chosokabe force
Geisha. During pre-battle scout-
will still look for Yumi Ashigaru to provide
ing your commander can either
the backbone of your army. Your Ashigaru and
Give a Rousing Speech or if your
force includes a Geisha you may Samurai are well trained but less armored than
perform the Tea Ceremony. their mainland counterparts, so you will need
to take advantage of their speed and flexibility
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to
to be effective.
each level 4 or level 5
character in your force
for 10pts each.

LEARN
MORE

74
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 CHOSOKABE Line Troops
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Pike Partial Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 15
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 16
Options: add pavises (+2 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot,
Proficient Yumi Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Aimed Shot
19
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor Volley 15

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Ruthless
Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Honorable
22
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable,
Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Thrusting Spear Full Armor Ruthless
21
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Milites 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Aimed Shot, Honorable, Parry Riposte 22
Options: add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Form Up, Massed Charge,
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Honorable
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 26
(mounted)
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Naginata Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 25

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Mounted Naginata Mounted, Honorable, Duty Bound,
Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Iron Will
27
Hatamoto
Options: -

75
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.4 MORI
Legend tells that Mori Motonari called his three
sons, gave each of them an arrow and asked them
to snap it. He then handed them three arrows
together and asked the same, this time they could
not do it, thus showing to his sons that while they
stayed united they could not be broken.
During the Sengoku period the Mori became
the dominant clan on western Honshu led by
the great Daimyo Mori Motonari. Inevitably they
MORI clashed with the Oda clan as Nobunaga sought to
become unifier of all Japan.
SPECIAL OP T IONS: Since the campaign in Miyajima in 1555 the
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas- Mori had developed their navy and had cultivat-
sin, your force can also include a ed ties with local allied pirates. They would effec-
Geisha. During pre-battle scouting tively leverage this aspect of warfare when they
your commander can either Give supported the Ikko Ikki in their war against Oda
a Rousing Speech or if your force
by providing naval power and maritime trade to
includes a Geisha you may perform
the uprising armies.
the Tea Ceremony.
Your Mori force will have access to pirate allies
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to each
and some troops normally used in naval encoun-
level 4 or level 5 character
ters but that could be used in support of your
in your force for 10pts each.
standard Ashigaru and Samurai troops.

LEARN
MORE

76
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 MORI LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Leavy Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor 12

Options: upgrade to full armor (+1 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley 16

Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Guerrilla, Combined Arms, Ruthless,
Pirates Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Mixed Weapons Partial Armor Fickle
12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 17
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Sohei Monks Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Brotherhood, Allies, Furikaeshi, Furor 21
Options: downgrade armor to partial armor (-1 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Arquebus Enclosed Armor Honorable 22

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Rain of Blows, Honorable, Off-Hand
Hatamoto Daisho Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 23
Hand Weapon Parry, Duty Bound, Iron Will
Options: remove armor (-5pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Fire Bomb Throwers Rare 4+ 5+ 3+ 6+ Grenades Partial Armor 21

Options: upgrade to full armor (1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Massed Charge, Honorable,
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Form Up
Options: -

77
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.5 ODA/TOYOTOMI/TOKUGAWA
The Oda clan started the period as a minor clan in the
Owari province. After the head of the clan, Nobuhide
passed in 1551, his son Nobunaga became the ruling
Daimyo. Nobunaga would soon demonstrate his mili-
tary genius defeating a much larger invading Imagawa
army at Okehazama in 1560. As he grew in stature at
the heart of Honshu he sought to unify Japan under his
rule. Nobunaga had to face many enemies, neighboring
clans such the Azai and the Asakura, the Takeda and
ODA/TOYOTOMI/TOKUGAWA Uesugi and also local rebellions such as the one in the
Iga province or the Ikko-Ikki uprisings. After emerging
SPECIAL OP T IONS: victorious from these conflicts, he pushed west, but it
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas-
was then that he was betrayed by one of his generals,
sin, your force can also include a Akechi Mitsuhide and took his own life at the Honno-
Geisha. During pre-battle scouting ji temple. Mitsushide’s victory was short lived when
your commander can either Give Toyotomi Hideyoshi, another general of Nobunaga
a Rousing Speech or if your force returned to avenge his master. Hideyoshi then continued
includes a Geisha you may perform the unification efforts of Nobunaga. Hideyoshi was to
the Tea Ceremony. perish of illness after an ill-fated campaign to invade
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to each Korea and this time it was another of Nobunaga’s gener-
level 4 or level 5 character als, Tokugawa Ieyasu, who rose to continue Nobunaga’s
in your force for 10pts each. dream. Ieyasu would eventually defeat the followers of
the late Hideyoshi at the battle of Sekigahara to finally
LEARN achieve the elusive unification and establish a new sho-
MORE gunate. This list applies to the armies of all three of the
unifiers. It is based on the military doctrine developed
by Oda, characterized by well trained Ashigaru.

78
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 ODA/TOYOTOMI/TOKUGAWA LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Harinezumi, Overwhelm 12

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill,
Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Extended Nagae-Yari
17
Options: Downgrade to Partial Armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Proficient Nagae-Yari Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill,
Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Extended Nagae-Yari
19
Ashigaru
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley, Rotational Fire 17

Options: Add Pavises (+2 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Proficient Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley, Rotational Fire 19
Options: Add Pavises (+2 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 17
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pt)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot,
Proficient Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor aimed shot
20
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Honorable 22

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Form up!, Honorable, Massed
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Charge
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 26
(mounted)
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Heavy Strike, Honorable, Duty Bound,
Hatamoto Tetsubo Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Heavy Weapon Enclosed Armor Iron Will
24
Options: remove armor (-5pts)

79
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.6 TAKEDA
From his seat at the heat of Honshu, the “Tiger of
Kai” is poised to strike.
For many years Takeda Shingen has honed
his army and skill through battle with his most
respected enemy, Uesugi Kenshin. But now,
as the upstart Oda Nobunaga seems intent on
marching on the capital, the Takeda clan will
raise to stop him, and in the process maybe
secure the Shogun mantle for himself!
TAKEDA
The Takeda armies are feared across Japan.
SPECIAL OP T IONS:
Their demon cavalry, early in transitioning from
horse archery to lance formations, have mas-
⿓ Your army may include 1 assassin, your
tered Norikuzishi, the massed lancer charge,
force can also include a Geisha. During
capable of breaking through the enemy like a
pre-battle scouting your commander can
either Give a Rousing Speech or if your tanto knife through rice cakes.
force includes a Geisha you may perform Your force will need to be balanced, just
the Tea Ceremony. like the Wind, Forest, Fire and Mountain in
⿓ You may attach 1 Tsukaiban to each level 4 Shingen’s motto. A good commander will use
or level 5 character in your force for 12pts well trained Ashigaru to strengthen the core of
each. Takeda’s Tsukaiban are renowned the army while a well-timed cavalry charge will
for their quality and bravery. A Takeda often lead the path to victory.
player may re-roll any 1s
rolled when forced to roll a
D6 due to enemy units with-
in 4” of characters involved
LEARN
in the transfer of CPs. MORE

80
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 TAKEDA LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley 16

Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 17
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Massed Charge, Honorable,
Mounted Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 27
Spear Form Up, Norikuzishi
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Honorable, Aimed Shot 23
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 26
(mounted)
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Naginata Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 25

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Mounted Hatamoto Mounted, Honorable, Duty Bound,
Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Iron Will
27
Samurai
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Onna Bugeisha Rare 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Mounted, Honorable, Determined 22
Options: Downgrade armor to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable,
Onna Bugeisha Rare 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Determined
20
Options: Downgrade armor to partial armor (-1pts)

81
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.7 UESUGI
During the Sengoku Jidai the Uesugi clan
became one of the most renowned clans due to
the many battles fought between their Daimyo,
Uesugi Kenshin, and Takeda Shingen; a struggle
between Heaven (Kenshin) and Earth (Shingen).
During this time, the two lords fought repeat-
edly in the central province of Shinano, which
limited to the north with Kenshin’s base prov-
ince of Echigo and to the south with Shingen’s
UESUGI base of Kai.
Uesugi Kenshin was a great strategist and
SPECIAL OP T IONS: skillful military leader, something he demon-
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas- strated brilliantly in such battles as the 4th
sin, your force can also include a Battle of Kawanakajima in 1561 against Shingen
Geisha. During pre-battle scouting or the battle of Teodorigawa in 1577 were he mas-
your commander can either Give terfully defeated an invading army under Oda
a Rousing Speech or if your force Nobunaga.
includes a Geisha you may per-
A Uesugi force relies on the solid building
form the Tea Ceremony.
blocks of standard Samurai armies with well
⿓ You may attach 1 trained and equipped Ashigaru, supported by
Tsukaiban to each level fierce Samurai. It is not uncommon to encoun-
4 or level 5 character in
ter allied warrior monks ready to join the ranks
your force for 10pts each. LEARN of Kenshin, himself a renowned Buddhist who
MORE
dedicated his life to protecting his territory and
keeping in check the expansionary ambitions of
neighboring Daimyos.

82
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 UESUGI LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts), upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Proficient Nagae-Yari
Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 18
Ashigaru
Options:

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley 16

Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 17
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Sohei Monks Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Furor, Furikaeshi, Brotherhood 21
Options: downgrade armor to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Honorable, Aimed Shot 23
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Honorable, Form Up, Mounted, Massed
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Charge
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Honorable, Mounted 26
(mounted)
Options:-

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Monks Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Brotherhood, Volley 21

Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Mounted Hatamoto Mounted, Honorable, Duty Bound,
Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Iron Will
27
Samurai
Options: -

83
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.3.8 HOJO
The later Hojo clan, not to be mistaken with the
earlier Hojo clan of the pre-sengoku era, was
established on the eastern Honshu province of
Izu by Ise Shinkuro, who would posthumously
be known as Hojo Soun when his son Ujistuna
chose to claim the Hojo name.
From Izu, Shinkuro would expand his sphere
influence over the Kanto region and establish
his capital in Odawara.
HOJO Shinkuro’s son, Hoju Ujistuna would clash
with the Takeda and the Uesugi in his effort
SPECIAL OPTIONS to expand Hojo borders. Ujistuna’s son,
⿓ Your army may include 1 assassin, Ujiyasu, would continue his father military
your force can also include a legacy engaging in alliances and wars with
Geisha. During pre-battle scout- both Uesugi and Takeda! Later Ujiyasu’s son,
ing your commander can either Ujimasa, expanded the borders further after
Give a Rousing Speech or if your
an alliance with the Tokugawa. However, when
force includes a Geisha you may
Hideyoshi sought to unify Japan, Ujimasa
perform the Tea Ceremony.
would resist, leading to the siege and defeat of
⿓ You may attach 1 Odawara in 1590, and the capitulation of the
Tsukaiban to each level later Hojo Clan.
4 or level 5 character in
A Hojo force will be a tough warband with
your force for 10pts each.
LEARN access to numerous cavalry and troops spe-
MORE cialized in the use field defenses. Under your
banner the iconic name of Hojo may rise again
in Japan!

84
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 HOJO LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts), upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Full Armor &
Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Volley, Tate Specialist 19
Pavises
Options: Remove Pavises and Tate Specialist ( -3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 14
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Furikaeshi, Kuridashi, Honorable 23

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Thrusting Spear Enclosed Armor Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable 22
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Mounted, Honorable, Form up, Massed
Mounted Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 26
Spear Charge
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined Arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade armor to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 26
(mounted)
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Naginata Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Mounted, Honorable 25

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Aimed Shot Honorable 23
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Rain of Blows, Honorable, Off-hand
Hatamoto Daisho Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Enclosed Armor 23
Hand Weapon Parry, Duty Bound, Iron Will
Options: remove armor (-5pts), make armor improved (+1pts)

85
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 DATE

SPECIAL OP T IONS:

⿓ Your army may include 1 assassin,

your force can also include a
6.3.9 DATE
Geisha. During pre-battle scout-
The Date clan was one of the most prominent
ing your commander can either
Give a Rousing Speech or if your clans in northern Japan. Although they did not
force includes a Geisha you may pursue the ambitions of other neighboring
perform the Tea Ceremony. clans, they were able to defend their territory
and retain relevance during the period. With
⿓ You may attach one Tsukaiban
to each level 4 or level 5 the rise of Data Masamune, known as the one-
character in your force eyed dragon, after the loss of an eye due to an
for 10pts each. early disease, the Date increased their standing
and wealth, eventually becoming supporters of
LEARN Tokugawa Ieyasu.
MORE
Date Masamune was able to provide his troops
with superior armor and was an early adopter of
modern armor aimed to improve survivability
against firearms. You will lead to battle a heav-
ily armored warband, of headstrong warriors
and aggressive Samurai armed with the best
armor a Daimyo can buy!

86
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 DATE LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Support Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Hand Weapon Partial Armor 9

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts); upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Overwhelm 12
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Nagae-Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 16
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Proficient Nagae-Yari
Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Pike Full Armor Harinezumi, Uteya, Ashigaru Drill 18
Ashigaru
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley 16

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ashigaru Milites 4+ 5+ 5+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 15
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved
Naginata Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+* Polearms Furikaeshi, Honorable, Furor 24
Enclosed Armor
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined Arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade armor to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved
Yari Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+* Thrusting Spear Uteya, Harinezumi, Honorable, Furor 24
Enclosed Armor
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved
Nodachi Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+* Heavy Weapons Gushing Wounds, Honorable, Furor 24
Enclosed Armor
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved
Yumi Samurai Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+* War Bow Honorable 23
Enclosed Armor

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Cavalry Long Improved Mounted, Honorable, Form Up, Massed
Mounted Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+* 27
Spear Enclosed Armor Charge
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Improved Harinezumi, Honorable, Duty Bound,
Hatamoto Yari Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+* Thrusting Spear 25
Enclosed Armor Iron Will, Uteya
Options: -

87
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.4 Other Factions
During the time of the warring states we encoun-
ter many other belligerent factions that make an
appearance and help shape this tumultuous time.
Most prominent were the peasant uprisings led
by Buddhist Monks, also know as the Ikko Ikki,
these uprisings resulted as a reaction form inde-
pendent leagues in opposition of the power of the
Daimyos.
There is also the case of the independent defend-
ers of the Iga and Koga provinces who mounted
opposition against the Oda clan until they were
subjugated.
Given the scale of actions represented in CLASH
of Katanas it is also appropriate to introduce
bands of bandits or pirates that would raid villages
or coasts not only in Japan but also in Korea and
China.
Finally, we have the Korean and Ming Chinese
forces that mobilized against the attempted
Japanese invasion known as the Imjin War from
1592 to 1598.
The forces provide ample opportunities for
wargamers to enjoy the period using armies other
than those of the traditional Samurai Clans.

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

 in self-governed and spiritually minded com-
munities, under the protection of fighting
monks.
As Japan is thrown into chaos, these commu-
nities have risen in “single minded revolts”, the
IKKO IKKI Ikko Ikki.
The Ikko Ikki army is formed by large num-
SPECIAL OPTIONS
bers of highly motivated but poorly equipped
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas- peasants, supported by expertly trained and
sin. During pre-battle scouting
usually fanatical warrior monks.
your commander can either
Give a Rousing Speech or per- While generally less armored than Samurai
form Nembutsu Chants. You warbands, an Ikko Ikki force will make up for
may purchase a portable that in zeal and skill.
Buddhist Shrine for 15pts But it is not just religion and zeal that makes
to improve your odds for the Ikko Ikki dangerous. Monks were some of
the Nembutsu Chants. LEARN the first in Japan to recognize the value of a
MORE
novel foreign technology, the teppo. Especially
due to its effectiveness in the hands of relatively
untrained peasants, as opposed to the tradition-
6.4.1 IKKO IKKI
al Japanese bow that required years of training.
For centuries Samurai lords have ruled Japan
So they soon acquired and learned to produce
with an iron fist. Peasants have been expected
these coveted weapons themselves.
to work the land and fight the battles of their
lords without hope of advancement or respite
from the island’s inclement weather. But not all
accept this fate, and many have formed together

90
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 IKKO IKKI LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Peasants Civis 5+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Mixed Weapons Overwhelm 7

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Followers Civis 5+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Mixed Weapons Partial Armor Overwhelm, Furor 12

Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Followers with Yari Civis 5+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Wall of Spears, Furor 12
Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Followers with Teppo Civis 5+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor Volley 13

Options: remove armor (-2pts), add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Monks Milites 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ Arquebus Full Armor Volley, Brotherhood 21

Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), add pavises (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Naginata Monks Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Brotherhood, Furor, Furikaeshi 21

Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Sisterhood, Furor, Furikaeshi,
Nuns Milites 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Determined
20
Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Followers with Bow Milites 5+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Bow Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist 12

Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined Arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Naginata Monks Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Mounted, Brotherhood 23

Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mounted Yumi Monks Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ Full Armor Mounted, Brotherhood 24
(mounted)
Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Tetsubo Monks Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Heavy Weapons Full Armor Brotherhood, Furor, Heavy Strike 21
Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Monks Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ War Bow Full Armor Brotherhood, Aimed Shot 21
Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Nuns Rare 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Brotherhood, Determined, Mounted 22

Options: remove armor (-3pts), downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

91
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.4.2 IGA WARRIORS
As Japan became increasingly fragmented due
to the constant wars between the Daimyos, the
inhabitants of the Iga province saw the perfect
opportunity to break free from domination
expelling the local shugo (governor) in 1577.
The region thus became independent of the
feudal system, and the fighters of this region
successfully repelled invasion attempts in 1578
and 1579. These fierce warriors excelled in espi-
IGA WARRIORS onage and guerrilla tactics eventually giving
birth to the legend of the ninja.
SPECIAL OPTIONS They were finally subjugated by Oda
⿓ Your army may include up to one Nobunaga in 1581.
assassin, or one master assassin.
The fighters of Iga rely heavily on the use of
⿓ During pre-battle scouting your terrain and guerrilla warfare and can be an
commander can either Give a effective mercenary force for other Daimyo. For
Rousing Speech or if your force example, Hattori Hanzo, whose family originat-
includes a Geisha you may per- ed from Iga, would become Tokugawa Ieyasu’s
form the Tea Ceremony.
personal bodyguard, always on alert against any
assassination attempts or betrayals.
The inhabitants of Iga were just one example of
LEARN
MORE other similar local uprisings of the period, this
list can be used to represent other rebellions such
as the Higo rebellion and many others.

92
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 IGA LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Scouts & Spies Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Hand Weapon Bushmaster 10

Options: upgrade to mixed weapons (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guerrillas Civis 4+ 5+ 3+ 6+ Mixed Weapons Partial armor Combined arms, guerrilla 16

Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yari Ashigaru Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Thrusting spear Partial armor Wall of spears, Uteya 14
Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guerrillas with Yumi Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ War Bow Partial armor Guerrilla, bushmaster 16
Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guerrillas with Sling Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Sling Partial armor Guerrilla, Bushmaster 15

Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guerrillas with Teppo Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Partial armor Guerrilla. bushmaster 16

Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ji-Samurai Milites 4+ 4+ 3+ 5+ War Bow Full armor Guerrilla, Aimed shot, Bushmaster 22
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), remove armor (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Additional Off-hand Parry, Rain of Blows Guerrilla,
Daisho Ji-Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Full armor 20
Hand Weapon Bushmaster
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), remove armor (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mixed Weapons Ji-Samurai Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Mixed Weapons Full armor Guerrilla, Combined arms, Bushmaster 20
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts), remove armor (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed armor Combined arms, Ruthless, Fickle 20
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Naginata Samurai Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full armor Mounted 22

Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Guerrilla, Combined Arms, Ruthless,
Bandits Rare 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Mixed Weapons Partial armor Fickle
12
Options: -

93
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.4.3 WAKO/BANDITS
16th century Japan is a harsh land, where birth
and caste define your life by a strict codebook. Yet,
whether by fate or choice some men and women WAKO/BANDITS
will always choose to break those rules. Banditry
is an option, but a dangerous one with ruthless SPECIAL OPTIONS

Samurai lords in the waiting. Korea and China ⿓ Your army may include one assas-
on the other hand are more attractive targets for sin. During pre-battle scouting
those bold enough to brave the open sea. your commander can give a
Rousing Speech, other options
For years pirates, have plagued the waters
are not available. You may pur-
between Japan, Korea and China. Now, with Japan chase Sake Rations for your army
in chaos, those same pirates, as well as local ban- to increase the odds of success
dit warbands, can find fortune by taking sides in while giving a Rousing Speech.
the wars of Japan itself.
A wako or bandit force will be lightly armored
but very lethally armed. With great access to
arquebuses from trading and looting, pirates and
bandits can be dangerous sharpshooters. Veteran LEARN
thugs excel at guerilla warfare and ruthlessly will MORE
exploit disadvantaged enemies. A savvy leader
will have to make great use of terrain to maximize
their strengths.
But don’t be fooled, elite landless Samurai will
many times join or even lead these unruly bands
making them dangerous to even the most disci-
plined enemy!

94
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 WAKO/BANDITS LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Rabble Civis 5+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Mixed Weapons Overwhelm, Allies 7

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Rabble with Yari Civis 5+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Thrusting Spear Wall of Spears, Overwhelm, Allies 8
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Bandits Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Mixed Weapons Guerrilla, Ruthless, Combined Arms 11

Options: add partial armor (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Teppo Bandits Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Arquebus Ruthless, Bushmaster 12

Options: add partial armor (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Marksmen Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Arquebus Sharpshooter, Ruthless, Bushmaster 15

Options: add partial armor (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Bandit Archers Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Bow Bushmaster, Ruthless, Aimed Shot 14

Options: add partial armor (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Veteran Bandits Milites 3+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Mixed Weapons Partial Armor Guerrilla, Ruthless, Combined Arms 17
Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Veteran Bandits with
Milites 3+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Polearms Partial Armor Guerrilla, Kuridashi, Ruthless 18
Polearms
Options: remove armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ronin Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Mixed Weapons Enclosed Armor Combined Arms, Ruthless 21

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Mounted Ronin Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 4+ Polearms Enclosed Armor Mounted 24

Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Yumi Ronin Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 4+ War Bow Enclosed Armor Ruthless, Aimed Shot 23
Options: downgrade to full armor (-2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Fire Bomb Throwers Rare 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Grenades Partial Armor 19

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Iron Will, Independent, Skirmish
Light Cannon & two crew Rare 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Light Cannon Partial Armor Specialist
90
Options: add 1 crew (+13pts), upgrade to full armor (+1pts per crew model)

95
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.4.4 JOSEON KOREANS
During the Imjin war the Joseon Dynasty ini-
tially found it nearly impossible to oppose the
Japanese armies in open battle. Yet, over time
they turned to rely on hit and run tactics to
weaken the invaders’ supply lines.
Korean forces had, in general, inferior fire-
arms to those brought by the Samurai and they
relied more on archery and the use of unconven-
tional war machines.
JOSEON KOREANS
In the end, with the support of their close
allies, the Ming Chinese, and due to the vastly SPECIAL OPTIONS
superior performance of their navy under the ⿓ Your army may include 1 assas-
leadership of admiral Yi Sun-shin, they were sin. During pre-battle scouting
able to fight back and repel the invaders. your commander can give a
Your Korean warband will rely heavily on Rousing Speech or can Consult
archery and early firearms but will also have the Omens as indicated in the
CLASH of Spears rulebook. You
access to improved firearms as the war progress-
may purchase a soothsayer to
es. Large number of militia forces driven by
increase your odds when con-
patriotism were employed and can overwhelm
sulting the omens.
your enemy. The resolve and impetus of your
troops together with effective use of terrain will
be the key to victory for your Korean warband.

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 JOSEON KOREANS LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guerrillas Civis 5+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Mixed weapons - Overwhelm 7

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Righteous Mob Civis 5+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Mixed Weapons - Overwhelm, Furor 10

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Militia with Glaives Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Polearms - Kuridashi 10

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Militia with fire lance Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ Early Firearms - Skirmish Specialist 10

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Militia Archers Civis 4+ 5+ 5+ 7+ War Bow - Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 12

Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Infantry with Glaives Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Polearms Partial Armor Kuridashi, Wall of Spears 15
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Partial Armor &
Swordsmen Milites 3+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Hand Weapons Off-Hand Parry, Shields Up! 16
Shield
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts), replace shield with additional hand weapon and gain rain of blows (free)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Archers Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Skirmish specialist, overhead shot 16
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Arquebusiers Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Partial Armor Volley 15

Options upgrade to full armor (+1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Monks Milites 3+ 5+ 3+ 7+ Polearms - Furor, Furikaeshi, Brotherhood 18

Options: add War Bow and Extra Equipment (War Bow) (+ 4 pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Nomad/Militia Cavalry Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ - Mounted 16
(mounted)
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Guard Cavalry Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 6+ Partial Armor Mounted 22
(mounted)
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1pts), add Polearms + Extra Equipment(polearms) and Momentum (+4pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Dismounted Guard Rare 4+ 4+ 3+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor 18

Options: upgrade to full armor(+1pts), Add Polearms, Extra Equipment(polearms) and Momentum (+4pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Hwacha and 2 crew Rare 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Hwacha - Independent, Iron Will 78

Add one extra crew(+10pts), Upgrade to partial armor (+2pts per crew)

97
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 6.4.5 MING CHINESE
For centuries the Ming Dynasty has ruled China
and its subject state of Korea. It has always seen the
upstart nation of Japan with distrust, and some
might say contempt. But now Japan has forgotten
its place and invaded its Joseon subject, scattering
the Korean militias in its wake.
The great Ming will not tolerate this and now
sends its vast army to teach a harsh lesson to those
uncouth barbarians, lest they forget that ancient MING CHINESE
and eternal China is the cradle of the world.
SPECIAL OPTIONS
A Ming commander must maximize the use of
⿓ Your army may include 1 assas-
combined arms. With a large variety of missile
sin. During pre-battle scouting
units at its core, a Ming force may sometimes feel
your commander can give a
well suited for defense, especially with its wide-
Rousing Speech or can Consult
spread use of pavises, the presence of great support the Omens as indicated in the
units like Spearmen and specialized shielded CLASH of Spears rulebook. You
swordsmen to step in when the enemy is closing may purchase a soothsayer to
on your missile line. However, a skillful general increase your odds when con-
will find that this army also has powerful alterna- sulting the omens.
tives for counteroffensive actions, either through
the mobility of their cavalry or the versatile mixed
formations of the Mandarin Duck units, trained use of artillery, allowing you to bring light can-
by the great general Qi Jiguang to fight against the nons to the fray, something that will make any
wako pirates. opponent rethink their battle tactics!
Finally, the Chinese have great expertise in the

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 MING CHINESE LINE TROOPS
T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Spearmen Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Thrusting Spear Partial Armor Harinezumi, Uteya 14

Options: upgrade to full armor (+1)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Partial Armor &
Firelance Infantry Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Early Firearms Tate Specialist 16
Pavises
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1), remove Pavises and Tate Specialist (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Partial Armor &
Crossbowmen Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Crossbow Tate Specialist 17
Pavises
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1), remove Pavises and Tate Specialist (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Archers Civis 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ War Bow Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist, Overhead Shot 16
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
¬¬Repeating
Zhuge Nu Infantry Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Partial Armor Skirmish Specialist 15
Crossbow
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Partial Armor &
Swordsmen Milites 3+ 5+ 4+ 5+ Hand Weapon Off-Hand Parry, Shields Up! 16
Shield
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Partial Armor &
Arquebusiers Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Arquebus Tate Specialist 17
Pavises
Options: upgrade to full armor (+1), remove Pavises and Tate Specialist (-3pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Mandarin Duck Partial Armor & Combined arms, Shields Up!,
Milites 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Mixed Weapons 18
Melee Infantry Shield Mandarin Duck
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Mandarin Duck
Milites 4+ 5+ 3+ 6+ Early Firearms Partial Armor Mandarin Duck 16
Missile Infantry
Options: -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
War Bow
Mercenary Cavalry Milites 4+ 5+ 4+ 7+ Mounted, Allies 16
(mounted)
Options -

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ming Cavalry Milites 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Mounted 20

Options: Replace polearms for War Bow (mounted) (+1pts) ; downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Ming Mounted Firelance Rare 4+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Early Firearms Full Armor Mounted, Mounted Gunnery 21
Options: downgrade to partial armor (-1pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS

Guard Cavalry Rare 3+ 5+ 3+ 5+ Polearms Full Armor Mounted 22

Options: upgrade to Enclosed Armor (+2pts)

T ROOP T Y PE AVAIL. CBT RNG GRIT SAVE WEAPONS ARMOR TRAITS PTS
Crouching Tiger Iron Will, Independent, Skirmish
Rare 4+ 5+ 4+ 6+ Light Cannon Partial Armor Specialist
90
Cannon & two crew
Options: add 1 crew (+13pts), upgrade to full armor (+1pts per crew model)

99
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 7

Sengoku Jidai, the time

of the warring states

A voyage in time to the era of The Warring States

by renowned author and expert in Japanese his-
tory, Terje Solum.

About
Terje Solum is the author of The Saga of the
Samurai. A collection of books still very much in
development that explores the rich history of the
Samurai.
For over 20 years Terje has done extensive
research on the medieval history of Japan. He has
studied Japanese at the University of Bergen in
Norway, and for a while at the language institute
in Okazaki, Japan.
He also studied English and History at Bô col-
lege in Norway.
Over time he has acquired an extensive library
Terje Solum
on Japanese history now reaching close to 6000
books, all in Japanese.
He has traveled extensively through Japan 7.1 The Onin war
and taken many photographs of historical land-
marks and he is always eager to engage with oth- The Onin War, Prelude to the
er enthusiast on discussion of Samurai history.
Sengoku Jidai
He currently lives in Skien, Norway and he has In May of 1467 in the streets of Kyôto. Soldiers belong-
gracefully agreed to write this fantastic history ing to Yamana Sôsen (1404-1473) and Hosokawa
of the Sengoku period in which he takes us Katsumoto (1430-1473) occupied various streets and
through the events that took place and the key quarters of the Capital. Swords were in plenty, but
impact that the many different personalities had polearms like the naginata and nagamaki were also
in shaping this history. used to its full effect in the crowded streets. Swords

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 were drawn and heads were flying. Soon total war way war was conducted. From a more tradition-
ensued within this tranquil monastic city. Fire was al style, since the 1100s, with bow and arrow,
also used as a weapon, many mansions, houses and polearms, and swords, and not to forget, a more
temples were burned to the ground, and among the individual way of fighting, until the
ruins left behind soldiers slashed at each other with use of huge, massed well-organized
what they possessed–while arrows struck at random. armies with spears and firearms
The fighting turned later that year into a war which (teppô) in large numbers at the end LEARN
would last for a good ten years within, in the sub- of the 1500s. MORE
urbs, and in the neighboring provinces of the Capital.
In 1467, Ashikaga Yoshimasa ruled Japan as
the 8th Shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate.
The land was ripe for unrest following a time of
famine and other calamities that had fostered
distrust on an ineffective Shogun. Yoshimasa
had ascended at the young age of 13 years old in
1449 following the unlucky demise of the two
prior Shoguns of the Ashikaga.
In addition to the civil unrest and adding fuel
to the fire, in 1464 lacking an heir, Yoshimasa
appointed his brother as official heir, but in
1465 an heir was unexpectedly born, Ashikaga
Yoshihisa. This led to succession crisis pitting
the Shogun and his brother supported by the
deputy Shogun or Kenrei, of the Hosokawa clan
vs Yoshihisa’s mother, Hino Tomiko, and her
allies the Yamana. Tomiko hoped to establish
Mori Motonari, Wiki Commons
Yoshimasa’s son as the Shogun, she would
serve as regent until the coming of age of the
Yoshihisa.
7.2 The war in the west
The fighting continued for 10 years without
Hosokawa or Yamana achieving their goals and The Shugo of Aki province came from the Aki
with a Shogun increasingly absent from an Takeda clan, and the Môri remained in the
active political role. In view of the withering shadows of this clan until 1541 when Takeda
power of the Shogunate the regional Daimyos Mitsukazu died due to sickness. The war against
saw the opportunity to expand their influence the Takeda had gone on for years, and the
and power as well as independent uprisings or main player had been the Ôuchi clan. Ôuchi
Ikki. Yoshitaka entered Kanayama Castle on May 24,
Japan was now entering the Sengoku Jidai, 1541.
the age of the Warring States. Throughout On March 14, 1497, Motonari was born in
these one-hundred and fifty years the Japanese Yoshida – he was Hiromoto’s second son, and his
islands saw a revolutionary transition in the mother came from the Fukuhara clan. When his

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 father decided to retire in 1500, his first-born Yoshida. The Môri were in an alliance with the
son Okimoto inherited the domains. Hiromoto Amago from Izumo province at the time – this
moved out of the main manor and castle and clan had expanded their territories and along
brought along his second son when he moved the way received promotions to Shugo over sev-
into Sarugake Castle in Tajihi. eral provinces. But in 1525 the Môri cuts of their
Motonari’s mother dies at the age of only ties to Amago, and instead joins another rival
thirty-three on December 8, 1501, and this must clan in this region, the Ôuchi.
have been a tragic experience for the young boy. In 1530, Motonari’s second son, Motoharu, is
Then on January 21, 1506, his father died – he was born. In 1533, Motonari’s third son, Takakage, is
only thirty-eight years old. At the age of twelve born.
Motonari goes through his genpuku ceremo- In 1534, The Môri bonds with the Shishido clan
ny – his coming-of-age ceremony. Okimoto’s – Motonari’s oldest daughter is married off to
first born son, Komatsumaru is born in 1515. Shishido Takaie.
On August 25, 1516, his older brother, Okimoto, In 1551, Motonari embarks on a conquest
dies at the youthful age of twenty-three. At the southwest in Aki. On August 20, he attacks
age of twenty (1517) Motonari took part in the Kanayama Castle, then Sakurao Castle and
battle at Arita on October 22, where they defeat finally the island of Itsukushima (Miyajima).
and kill the Shugo Takeda Motoshige and his On August 28, Sue Takafusa, a retainer of the
superior army, at least in numbers. This was Ôuchi clan, rebels against their lord, and in an
Motonari’s first battle (uijin). The background attack on Ôuchi Yoshitaka in Yamaguchi, he
for this encounter was Motoshige’s invasion forces Yoshitaka to escape. He makes it safely to
of the Kikkawa clan’s territories, and that a Hôsenji, but soon thereafter he has to run away
former retainer of them, Oda Nobutada (lord once more and this time he makes it to Nagato
of Arita), had betrayed the Takeda and rejoined province. Constant fleeing is no life, Yoshitaka
the Kikkawa clan. To the east of Kikkawa’s realizes it is all over and he commits seppuku at
territories lay the area belonging to Môri, and the Daineiji Temple in Fukagawa on September
Motonari knew that if Arita Castle fell, the next 1st.
target would most likely be Môri’s territories.
In 1555, Motonari enforces some strategical
The clans mobilized and together they staged
moves which would make the clan rise to what
a surprise attack on the invading forces, which
they became in the 1570s – a force to be reckon
were ready to attack Arita Castle. The enemies
with.
were chased off the battlefield and several
Motonari lets his second son, Motoharu, be
prominent warriors were killed, among them
adopted into the Kikkawa clan and he moves
Motoshige. With this victory the Môri gained
into Ogurayama Castle in Shinjô, while at the
a solid grip on the eastern part of Yamagata
same time, his third son, Takakage, is adopted
district.
into the Kobayakawa clan, and he moves into
In April of 1523 Motonari’s first born son,
Takayama Castle in Numata. These two would
Takamoto, is born. In the same year, July 15,
surely make their father proud.
Komatsumaru dies at the age of eight, and
Gradually Motonari came in conflict with
Motonari is proclaimed leader of the Môri clan
his neighbor to the west of him, Sue from Suô
on August 10 – he moves into Kôriyama Castle at

103
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 province. The Sue clan had served under the committed gekokujô (the low surpass the high).
Ôuchi for many years, they shared the same After this action by Harukata, Motonari’s main
ancestry as the Ôuchi, but during the 1540s enemy became Sue, and gradually the two clans
they began to doubt their leader’s capabilities prepared for a showdown.
to lead, and they started to make plans against In the early morning of September 22, 1555,
their masters – they wanted to pursue their own Sue Harukata arrives at Itsukushima (island) at
fate. Sue Harukata managed to gain ground and the head of 20,000 men, who were transported
gradually became one of the main players to by about 500 vessels. Sue orders his main army
the west of Aki province. With this continually to set up camp on a hill approx. one kilometer
expansion of territory, he soon came in conflict south of Miyao castle. Miyao castle, at Ari-no-
with the Amago and Môri, but the escalation of Ura (Ura = bay), had been built by the Môri
the current animosity occurred in 1551 when Sue during the spring that year, and this fortress
Harukata murdered his lord, Ôuchi Yoshitaka, was the target of Sue’s invasion. Itsukushima
on September 1. had originally been under the Ôuchi clan’s con-
As a note here, there had been co-operations trol, but later it was more and more the Sue clan
between the two clans, for example in 1541 when who exercised control over the island, and this
Motonari joined Sue Harukata (1521-1555) in a construction of a fortress was a direct provoca-
campaign against the Amago forces. During the tion to Harukata’s authority.
1540s Yoshikata had gradually chosen a passive September 27, 1555, Môri Motonari’s forces
policy and instead stalked out a road which prepares for battle. A surprise attack onto the
involved pleasure and non-aggressive activities island of Itsukushima, located merely one kilo-
– a more leisurely and indulgent existence. This meter from the mainland, west of Hiroshima.
century was not the time for such a policy, and Sue’s main camp was located on Tô-no-Oka, a
this was one of the main reasons why Sue had small hill along the seaside, located next door
decided to overthrow his master – and so he to Itsukushima Shrine. There were about 500

104
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Miyajima 1555, Wiki Commons

men inside Miyao Castle, but Sue took his time, Tsutsumiga-Ura. This took place between 7pm
he sat quietly in his quarters at Tô-no-Oka while and 10pm on the 30th. Kobayakawa neared the
some of his units started to attack the enemy end of Itsukushima before he turned his fleet
castle. Most likely reassured that this would be around and came east along the shore of the
an attack and an easy conquest going according island, when approaching the Itsukushima
to his plans. Motonari thought differently, and Shrine, he ordered his fleet to wait. Motonari
it is noted by some that Motonari had planned gathered his men on the beach at around 10pm
this development of events earlier that year. on the evening of September 30, he prepared
Setting up a small fortress on Itsukushima to them to attack, but before they could throw
lure Sue to attack, and then close the trap. With themselves onto the enemy, they needed to
approx. two hundred ships of various sizes, the cross over Bakuchio Mountain and its pass.
force was divided into two separate fleets. When they had crossed this mountain, they
They set out from Kusatsu, Kusatsu Castle was could launch a surprise attack on Sue’s main
the marine base of the Môri during the 1550s, on camp. Motonari called upon his naval officers
the evening of September 30. Môri had around and told them to return their ships to the main-
4,500 troops in total of which approx. 500 were land, out of sight, until further orders. Motonari
inside Miyao Castle on Itsukushima which was prepared for what was coming, he had sent
was now under heavy attacks, Sue’s forces had out scouts several days earlier and knew where
attacked them for over a week, and the water the enemy campsites were. The returning naval
supply was cut, and the walls were starting to forces lit torches when they had reached the
crumble – the castle would soon fall, so there mainland, and this gave Motonari
was no time to waste. the signal he was waiting for. The
While Kobayakawa Takakage led a force men were gathered on and around
toward the west of Itsukushima, Môri Motonari the summit of Bakuchio, when
Motonari gave the order to attack at LEARN
led the main force moving southeast toward MORE

105
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 about six o’clock in the morning on October 1. the fleeing remnants of Sue’s island army came
At the same time, or probably shortly before running through the forest or along the beach,
Motonari launched, Kobayakawa’s forces many looking for boats to board, but there were
attacked from the seaside near Itsukushima none to find – not friendly anyway. Many sol-
Shrine. It is noted that Motonari let his men diers started to flee inland among the hills and
lit up noroshi (signal fire), from the summit forests on the island, but several of them joined
of Bakuchio to signal the maritime forces of into fighting units and fought against the pur-
Kobayakawa to attack in the early morning. suers. For hours and hours, the cat and mouse
Kobayakawa had with him maritime forces hunt continued, and exactly what happened
from the Murakami clans from the inland sea. to Harukata is slightly unknown – various
They had arrived at Sakurao Castle, another narrations. He was either killed or committed
maritime base for the Môri, on September 28. seppuku, but his head is said to have been cap-
Motonari gave the order and his men stormed tured/taken by Môri’s men, at some time. One
down the mountainside and into the right source notes he committed seppuku at Ôe-no-
flank of Sue’s camp. Kikkawa Motoharu led the Ura, located on the northwest side of the island.
vanguard while Motonari and Takamoto headed The head-viewing was held at Sakurao Castle
the main force. Kobayakawa’s orders were to at Hatsukaichi, on October 5 – where the head
aid Miyao Castle and then join the now sallying of Harukata was presented among many other
defenders in an attack on Sue’s campsite. Sue prominent samurai. In the records of Kikkawa
was taken completely by surprise and did not Motoharu’s retainer, Moriwaki Harukata, it
have a clue on what was happening. Sue’s forces is noted that the Môri army took 4,740 heads.
were most likely expecting an attack from the While a Shinto priest at Itsukushima, Saeki
Itsukushima side, if any, so when the vanguard Fusaaki, recorded that the Môri army took
force under Kikkawa came thundering in at the 8,000 heads.
rear of Sue’s main camp – it was game over. Sue’s
soldiers were facing the Itsukushima side and The unification of the west
had no time to turn around in an orderly fash- After this victory over Sue Harukata, Motonari
ion. At almost the same time Kobayakawa’s forc- set off on a conquest resembling what Oda
es stormed against them. Sue’s army was within Nobunaga did later that century. Motonari grad-
a short period of time squeezed in between two ually gained control over Nagato and Suô prov-
enemy forces. The main body of Sue’s army was inces, and from before he held Aki and Bingo.
either sleeping or barely awake when the ene- Of course, this was not enough, and in 1557
my came knocking. In the ensuing fighting at Motonari defeated Ôuchi Yoshinaga – Yoshinaga
Harukata’s main camp, Sue’s troops fought well, was also compelled to commit seppuku. The
but soon broke into a desperate flight into the Môri seemed to be unstoppable, and they were.
mountains or westward down to the seaside. Over the next ten years they conquered all of
It is noted that arrows and teppô were used. the western parts of Honshû, and the provinces
There was also a naval battle going on in the of Ishimi and Izumo, north and northeast. He
morning of October 1. To conclude Sue’s naval even ventured into the northern part of Kyûshû.
forces were defeated – the ones making it to Motonari lay the foundation for his family to
safety fled westward toward Suô province. Now further build upon in the decades to come.

106
Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 Motonari left this world due to illness, on June Mitsuhide. This timeout gave the Môri precious
14, 1571, at his Kôriyama Castle. time to consolidate their political situation,
After Motonari died in 1571, his grandson military forces, and their future ambitions – in
Terumoto inherited the main clan. When their neighborhood. They stayed out of the
Motonari retired from public life in 1559, he inheritance dispute among Nobunaga’s generals
transferred the family seat to his firstborn son, which erupted as soon as news of Nobunaga’s
Takamoto, but he died in 1563. Motonari was death was widen known. This conflict involved
quick to find a solution to this unexpected the central part of Honshû – from Settsu prov-
crisis and announced that Takamoto’s firstborn ince to Owari province over the next two years.
son, Terumoto (1553-1625), should be promoted Instead, the Môri focused westward, toward the
to clan leader. Terumoto was only ten years old island of Kyûshû.
at the time, but he had plenty of guardians to The Shimazu, from Satsuma province, had
aid him on every issue the young lord would gradually advanced north on that island and
face as a leader, and not to forget, Motonari was threatened to conquer the whole island within a
still alive. The reason why Motonari had acted few years. Toyotomi Hideyoshi had taken on the
so quickly was to prevent domestic quarrels crown after Nobunaga, and the Môri remained
among all his other family members on this loyal to him – this was due to their continuing
issue. Motonari tried what he could to keep permit to maintain and administer land in Aki.
the whole clan together and as he saw it, there Hideyoshi was a much more visionary leader
was no better “uniting” solution at the time. In than Nobunaga had been – he managed to unite
1565 he went through his genpuku ceremony the land with relatively little effort compared
and received the name Terumoto – the “Teru” to what Nobunaga had invested, and he sought
part of his name was a name-gift from Ashikaga a peaceful and respective solution to both side’s
Yoshiteru, who was Shôgun. discrepancies. A solution in which both parties
Looking at Terumoto’s achievements through- remained unashamed.
out the remaining years of the 16th century, he After a few massive military campaigns,
did quite well. A few months after Motonari had Shikoku (1585), Kyûshû (1587) and Odawara in
died, the Môri army pushed on and chased the 1590 the whole of Japan was finally united.
Amago out of their domains in Izumo, located Terumoto had done well and Hideyoshi
northeast of Aki. rewarded him with massive areas of land.
A peace-deal, although a fragile one, remained Nine provinces with a land value of 1,120,000
with the Ôtomo in the west. The Ôtomo were koku.
strong on the island of Kyûshû. Although they
From 1592 Hideyoshi ventured into a hopeless
faced several ardent opponents, both east and
war on the Korean peninsula which would last
west, they managed to get out of these troubles
until his death in 1598.
more or less unscathed, occasionally by share
The Môri had taken part in all of these cam-
fortune or skillful conduct.
paigns and done quite well. Terumoto contin-
The long war against Oda Nobunaga – for the
ued to rule over the main line until he died on
most part against Toyotomi Hideyoshi ended
April 27, 1625, at his manor at Shihonmatsu in
well, especially with the timely murder of
Hagi.
Nobunaga on June 2, 1582, in Kyôto, by Akechi

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 7.3 The Imjin War artillery, he was able to engage the Japanese
fleet in a series of battles in which he systemati-
By 1592 Toyotomi Hideyoshi had
cally destroyed most of their combat capability.
effectively achieved the unifi-
This would effectively prevent the Japanese
cation of most of Japan, at least
from supporting the land troops by disrupting
temporarily, since taking over
LEARN their supply lines. At the same time the Korean
after the assassination of his lord MORE
defenders had changed tactics and were now
Oda Nobunaga by the treasonous
engaging in continued guerrilla warfare, fur-
Akechi Mitsushide. Hideyoshi defeated Akechi
ther disrupting the logistics of the invading
and now stood as the dominant Daimyo in
army.
Japan. He decided it was time to look west and
engage on an idea that Nobunaga had failed By the end of 1592 the Ming Chinese govern-
to execute, the invasion of Korea and China. A ment, realizing the imminent danger, started
force of about 160,000 soldiers would be dedi- mobilizing troops to Korea. An initial expedi-
cated to that task. tion by Zu Chengxun was exterminated while
attempting to retake Pyongyang, but early in
In May of 1592 the first division of the Japanese
1593 a new force under general Li Rusong was
invasion force landed at Busan after facing
tasked with fighting back the Japanese invaders.
virtually no naval opposition by a defending
This new Ming army, joining forces with the
naval force that mistook the invading ships for a
Korean defenders and utilizing their superior
trading mission.
artillery were able to retake the Pyongyang and
The Korean troops proved no match for the
the Japanese defenders that where still resist-
Japanese armies, battle hardened after years of
ing in the inner citadel fled rather than being
civil war. Battle after battle the superior troops,
exterminated.
equipment and tactics of the Samurai lords
From this point onwards the Japanese were
resulted in victory after victory as the Japanese
forced to retreat in the face of Chinese and
occupation of the peninsula expanded north.
Korean combined efforts. They would retire all
The only obstacle that the Japanese encountered
the way to the costal fortresses around Busan,
was the competition between the main leaders
their original landing area. It was now 1594 and
of the expedition, Kato Kyomasa and Konishi
the situation had reached a stalemate with no
Yukinaga, who constantly bickered with each
side being able to make further progress in one
other to achieve the glory and credit of the inva-
direction or the other and a temporary peace
sion. The samurai continued north reaching
agreement was reached.
as far as to capture Pyongyang, it seemed that
nothing would stop Hideyoshi’s dreams from This uneasy peace continued until 1597, with
becoming a reality. However, the tide would Japanese troops lodged in the costal fortresses
eventually turn. and the Koreans rebuilding and reconstituting
their army and rebuilding the country.
Yi-Sun-Sin, a Korean naval commander, had
been preparing for the Japanese invasion and In 1597 Hideyoshi decided to make another
unlike the central government had not under- attempt after a serious of failed negotiations.
estimated the samurai military power. Through Aware of the naval superiority that Korea had
effective naval tactics and superior naval shown in the past, the Japanese sent a more
powerful fleet and leveraged internal political

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 divisions among the Joseon that had resulted in troops were now better equipped and prepared,
admiral Yi, the hero of the previous campaign, so the success of the initial invasion was not to
being imprisoned and accused of treason. be replicated.
After early naval victories by the Japanese By late of 1598 Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s health
fleet, Yi was reinstated and things were back had deteriorated and he died in September of
to normal with the cunning Korean naval that year. It soon became clear that the endeav-
commander constantly outmaneuvering and or was hopeless, and the Japanese progressively
destroying the Japanese navy. pulled their troops back to Japan. Thus the con-
In the peninsula the situation was also dif- quest of Korea and China was abandoned.
ficult for the samurai as Korean and Chinese

7.4 The war in the East

The Imagawa Rise to power campaign to rule over, not only Suruga, but also
While fighting throughout the islands erupted Tôtômi and Mikawa, but later his descendants
with the outbreak of the Ônin War in 1467, would even aim beyond Mikawa province, in
many clans had been in armed conflict long the latter half of the 16th century. Ujichika did
before this major conflict broke out. In the east- not officially announce this drive westward,
ern part of Honshû (the main island), several but his actions were evident of such an aim. His
clans, like the Uesugi, Nagao, Ashikaga, Miura, father was Imagawa Yoshitada (¬¬?-1476), and
and many more, were involved in military con- his mother (Lady Kitagawa) was a younger sister
flicts, usually involving the offices of Kanrei, of Hôjô Sôun (at this time in history Sôun went
Kubô and Shugo. But the fighting really soared by the name Ise Shinkurô Nagauji). Yoshitada
between 1467 and 1500, and several clans, which had also taken part in the fighting within Kyôto
held a title – often the post as Shugo, went to in 1467, with about a thousand men, he had sid-
war against their neighboring Shugo, and not ed with Hosokawa (the eastern army).
fearing any severe consequences from the cen- In 1476 Ujichika (as a child he was called
tral authorities anymore. One such clan was the Tatsuômaru) was only five (other source three)
Imagawa from Suruga province – they were the years old, when his father was killed at the bat-
ruling Shugo of the same province. tle of Shôkaizaka in Tôtômi province. Regarding
The origin of the Imagawa can be traced the battle of Shôkaizaka there are several
back to the Imagawa village in Hazu district in sources stating various dates it took place: April
Mikawa province. The Imagawa were descen- 6-1475, June 19-1475, April 6-1476, and February
dants from the Ashikaga clan, making them 19-1479. Several dates to choose from, but there
legitimate competitors to the position of seems to be a consensus on 1476 – this is due to
Shôgun – only descendants from the Minamoto this sentence in the source Myôhôji-ki:
clan could be declared Shôgun. “Bunmei 8 (1476), the Lord Shugo of Suruga
The Imagawa clan from Suruga province was (Yoshitada), was killed in battle in Tôtômi.”
one such opportunistic player, although the The Katsuyama-ki mentions also only the year
Imagawa held the position as Shugo, it was but it is 1476.
Imagawa Ujichika (1471/73-1526) who went on a

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 What almost immediately followed that he had his genpuku between July 28 and
Yoshitada’s death was a dispute between the January of 1489 – the letter from 1489 was signed
clan’s vassals. Like so many times before in Ujichika. But it is not that easy, speculations
these cases it sparked successor quarrels as to due to a scrutinizing inspection of these early
who should rightfully take over the Imagawa letters, still raises the point on Ujichika having
clan. The usual cause in this case too, Ujichika his genpuku ceremony in 1485, and if he did,
was the rightful heir, but he was too young to he would have to be born in 1471 in order to be
rule. A relative to Yoshitada by the name Oshika fourteen years old when he went through his
Norimitsu, quickly stepped up and proclaimed genpuku.
his “valid” right to the seat. It might not have It might be plausible upon Tatsuômaru reach-
been a direct coup d’état to begin with that ing fourteen years old, that the genpuku was
Oshika, with support from Hôjô Sôun, was plan- postponed until Oshika had resigned and peace
ning, but that he would only be a temporary between the retainer band was restored – this
leader of the clan until Ujichika was old enough is mere speculations, but it seems plausible
to take charge. Anyway, when this “takeover” looking at the sources. Now everybody expected
occurred, Lady Kitagawa feared the worst, and that Oshika would resign and hand over the
in hurry she took her young son and fled to reins to Ujichika, but this was not to be. The
Ogawa village within Shida district in Suruga. year 1486 passed without any signs of a peaceful
She and her son sought shelter with the local transfer of power, and on entering 1487 Sôun’s
landlord Ogawa Hôei at his fortified mansion. patience had ran out. At this time, it is accord-
It is unknown for how long the two stayed at ing to old records noted that Sôun served with
Ogawa, but soon it seems that Sôun was accept- the authorities in Kyôto – he was a member of
ing Tatsuômaru as the legitimate heir, and the the môshitsugi-shû (group of advisors). Sôun
young boy was invited to move into Mariko who had initially supported Oshika decided
mansion, a few kilometers northwest of Sunpu. to act when he realized that Oshika was reluc-
When Ujichika reached fourteen he went tant to concede. Sometime between April and
through his genpuku ceremony, and it would September 1487 he went to Suruga to assist his
now be the perfect time to take charge. Oshika sister and nephew. After arriving in Suruga, he
on the other hand, he thought otherwise. He ordered his men to move on Sunpu where they
was fine with things in Sunpu and did not want found Oshika Norimitsu and they killed him.
to hand over the reins to Ujichika. If Tatsuômaru After the death of Oshika, Ujichika was
was born in 1471, he would be fourteen in 1485 installed as the seventh generation Imagawa
and that would be the year he went through his leader and moved into the Sunpu manor in
genpuku ceremony. But according to the earliest Suruga, together with his mother. A letter
letters issued by Ujichika, one can see that the dated October 20, 1487, signed by Tatsuômaru,
last one signed with the name Tatsuômaru was and addressed to the Tôkôji temple is possible
from 1488. There are two letters with his child- evidence for the previously mentioned events.
hood name, and as soon as a young boy had Although, the exact time he took over is not
gone through his genpuku ceremony he would known, there is one record that gives a hint on
change his name. It would have been common November 9, 1487. In the death register of the
practice and considering this, it must be true Tokuganji temple in Suruga, the following is

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 noted, “November 9, Lord Oshika”. castle to rule from. Clans which did not yield
Ujichika was still a young and inexperienced to Ujichika were exterminated or they would
lord – and there would be hardships to come, be relocated, and their land was taken over by
but at his side was Hôjô Sôun, his uncle. Sôun Ujichika’s vassals. Some local lords became vas-
was rewarded for his actions and shortly after sals, all though some of them reluctantly, and
Ujichika had moved into Sunpu, he received in order to make them serve, the suppressed
12 villages at Shimokata (Fuji district) and he lords had to send hostages to the Imagawa man-
moved into Kôkokuji Castle (Imagawa-ki), locat- sion in Sunpu. Ujichika gained gradually more
ed in eastern part of Suruga. control over Tôtômi province and letters from
Ujichika’s first target after settling in was the the period confirms this notion. From 1501 to
province of Tôtômi, located west of Suruga. It 1503 his forces stretched out from Hamamatsu
was also within this province his father was to Okazaki Castle in Mikawa. Both Okazaki and
killed in battle in 1476, and this might be one Iwatsu castles were attacked, and there was fero-
of the reasons why Ujichika now turned his cious fighting at the castles of Mamushizuka,
attention toward this neighboring province. Amakata and Kuno in Tôtômi province. Gunchû
Hôjô Sôun was put in charge of the army invad- (letters of valor) letters are proof of this taking
ing Tôtômi province in the autumn of 1494. A place. Tôtômi province was under the Shiba
source (Entsû Shôdô zenjigoroku) written by the clan’s control, this clan held the office of Shugo,
Buddhist priest, Shôdô Kôsei (1431-1505), conveys but by this time they were weak, and this is
the story of Sôun’s invasion. Kôsei resided in the main reason why the Imagawa managed to
Tôtômi province and in his record, he notes the drive them out. The Shiba sought help, espe-
following: cially from the Ogasawara from Matsumoto
in Shinano province, to the north. Ogasawara
“Third year of Meiô (1494), autumn, Heike
Sadatomo tried to aid, and they made it down
Sôun (Sôun of the Taira clan) leads a force of
to Futamata Castle. There is evidence of them
several thousands of men into this province
aiding the Shiba in their fight against Imagawa
(Tôtômi) – into three districts. Attacks Taka
forces, but in the end, Ogasawara returned
Castle (Takafuji Castle – the Hara clan’s base)
to Shinano and the Shiba was forced out. The
and torched villages.”
Imagawa and Shiba had for many years been
This is an extract of the whole passage, but
fighting over Tôtômi province, and both clans
it is the vital points of it, and it gives us sol-
had held the office of Shugo over the province
id information on the base building which
from time to time, but now it seems that the
Ujichika now had planned for this province.
Imagawa really got the upper hand on their
The Hara clan was situated toward the center
longtime rivals – not by Shogunal appointments
of Tôtômi, and it would be from the eastern
but with military might.
part of Tôtômi and toward the western part in
In 1504 though, the direction changed.
which he would expand, a natural course as he
Ujichika and Sôun advanced into Musashi prov-
invaded and expanded his territories from the
ince, located to the northeast of Suruga. The
east. He would follow the Tôkaidô Road. From
reason for this sudden change of theatre was
1496 to 1500 Ujichika strengthened his grip
the ongoing conflict between the Ôgigayatsu
on the western region of Tôtômi by installing
Uesugi and the Yamanouchi Uesugi lines on the
vassals at strategic places and of course with a

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 Kantô (the greater Tokyo region). It was to assist have looked upon this province as an easy prey.
Uesugi Tomoyoshi (?-1518) of the Ôgigayatsu This was not to be, and he quickly changed his
line, they had previously joined forces. The mind. Realizing that a campaign westward
opponents met at a large field called Tachikawa would probably be more profitable, so there
in Musashi, but the Yamanouchi forces is would not be any more attempts in the direc-
said to have won. A letter issued by the victor, tion of Kai, not until 1514.
Akisada (1454-1510), mentions that he met forces In 1514 Ujichika tries to exploit the provin-
under Jibushôyû (Tomoyoshi), Imagawa Gorô cial disturbances in Kai and advances up to
(Ujichika) and Ise Shinkurô (Sôun), and thereby Katsuyama. Not sure if anything comes out of
confirms that a taijin (opposing camps) took this invasion but it might be that he managed
place and that the mentioned lords partici- to capture Katsuyama Castle. It is possible
pated. It says taijin and not gassen (kassen) or that this campaign took place, as five sources
tatakai which would mean battle. Maybe it was conveys this information and two of these are
not a hard-fought battle but only a skirmish–not the Myôhôji-ki and Ôdaiki – highly acclaimed
easy to interpret from Akisada’s letter. sources.
The involvement in the Kantô Rebellion did In December of 1516, Takeda Nobutora sur-
not hamper Ujichika’s ambitions regarding rounds Katsuyama Castle in Kai province. The
Tôtômi, and soon he was at it again westward. castle was a support castle of Ujichika. But
Realizing that it would be the downfall for a not much more information other than this
clan to resist, many now decided to yield to sentence in the Sôchô shuki or Myôhôji-ki. Not
Ujichika, like the Amano clan from Inui Castle much information, but this is evidence of an
in Tôtômi, a letter verifies that they had become Imagawa presence in Kai province during these
vassals. In the future the Amano would become years, and it might be evidence for the assump-
the vanguard of many campaigns toward tion that Ujichika managed to take the castle
Mikawa province, but also within Tôtômi, under in is invasion of Kai in 1514. But it also gives
the directions of Imagawa leaders. The Amano evidence that Nobutora was on a campaign to
clan had also served with the Imagawa in the unite Kai under Takeda leadership.
early decades of the 15th century, when Imagawa In January of 1517, Ujichika sends a monk by
Norimasa (1364-1433) held the office as Shugo the name Sôchô to Nobutora in Kai – they sign
over Suruga and Tôtômi provinces. a peace agreement (Sôtsuyama-ki). The peace
agreement seems to materialize in March the
The Takeda join the fight same year. Peace is finally agreed upon between
We have mentioned military campaigns to Ujichika and Nobutora – Ujichika calls his men
the west and east, but Ujichika also ventured back to Suruga (Sôtsuyama-ki, Sôchô shuki,
north of Suruga toward Kai province–where the Myôhôji-ki).
Takeda held the office as Shugo. Hôjô Sôun led a In 1521 arises the most serious invasion
force into this province in 1501 toward Yoshida, attempt by Ujichika to conquer Kai province up
but he was forced to retreat. Kai province was, at to date.
the outset of 1500, a rather chessboard of local During these early decades of the 16th centu-
lords not yielding to the Shugo just like that. ry, Nobutora tried to unify Kai province, and
Due to this ununified province Ujichika might

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 it was in the midst of this provincial military
confusion that Ujichika wanted to exploit his
chances to conquer the province for himself.
He did not succeed, and it was in fact quite
a humiliating defeat. Ujichika gives the com-
mand to his loyal general Kushima Masanari
(Lord of Takatenjin Castle, other source;
Tsuchikata Castle). Who leads the Imagawa
forces of 15,000 men deep into Kai province,
all the way up to the center of the valley. This
is basically Kai province, a two-pronged valley
coming together in the south, and surrounded
by mountain ranges.
Nobutora mobilizes what he can of vassals and
family relations, clans with roots to the Takeda,
and meets them at Ara River. The enemy army
closes in on Tsutsujigasaki (Takeda mansion).
Nobutora chose the battleground, it seems, and
at Iida-ga-Hara he defeats the invasion army. In
Takeda Nobutora, Wiki Commons
the Ôdaiki it is noted that more than hundred
soldiers died in the battle. The fighting was not there until (early) new year.”
over, but the two armies retreated and licked It was a colossal victory for Nobutora, and this
their wounds, and on November 23, they met was the last massive and dangerous invasion of
again at Kamijô. In this massive clash Kushima Kai province during the first half of the 1500s.
was killed and the invasion army retreated back Sadly there a few detailed sources on this event,
south to Toda Castle, located in Naka Koma and therefore impossible to analyze Nobutora’s
district of Kai province. The remaining invasion tactics. There are no numbers for the Takeda
force stayed here until new year. The Ôdaiki side either and this makes it quite difficult to
notes: compare the two sides military capacity against
“November 23, a battle at Kamijô. The Suruga the victory obtained by Nobutora. The number
force suffers greatly, 600 dead.” of dead Imagawa soldiers in the Enzan source,
In the Kôhakusai-ki: seems rather high – one must keep in mind that
the Enzan source is written by a pro-Takeda
“On the 23rd, 6pm (hour of the Rooster –
author/authors / likewise the two other sources
5-7pm), a battle takes place at Kamijô, Kushima’s
quoted. The number of 600 mentioned in the
forces lost many men.”
Ôdaiki sounds more plausible, but there is not
In the Enzan kôgoku zenan shônendai-ki:
much more information we got on this invasion
“November 23, a battle at Kamijô, 6pm, sev-
and the two described battles. So, it is absolute-
eral Kushima members killed, and 4,000 other
ly impossible to state any certain truth to either
ranks of soldiers also killed. Remaining forces
of the sources which mention numbers. The
retreats south to Toda Castle – and they stay
source Goshu gyôki mentions losses on both

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 sides. It is also without doubt that the Imagawa evidence for the notion that she ruled for a
force was much numerous than the Takeda side, while, more precisely for about two years. First
but how much larger it was is rather difficult time her seal was on a letter was on September
to estimate. Since the sources referring to num- 26, 1526, this is of course what still exists of her
bers are all pro-Takeda, for instance, they might letters. Most likely she issued letters before
have exaggerated Kushima’s numbers which this one, but this September 26 is the first solid
is often the case for the winning side – to exag- evidence.
gerate the defeated enemy’s numbers. Kushima Ujiteru’s seal and signature turns up for the
Masanari who led the invasion army brought first time on March 28, 1528, in a letter addressed
personal shame to his reputation, but at least he to Matsui Hachirô. It seems that Ujiteru was
died fighting. the first to organize the umamawari-shû (a
In 1524 Ujichika had gained total control hatamoto unit of samurai) within the Imagawa
of Tôtômi, and a land survey verifies this. clan during his period in charge, no letter exists
Although it had taken many years it was now from his father’s period which refer to such a
clear that the province was his, even though unit, or in any other writings on Ujichika’s life.
there had been some Ikki rebellions (common- But two letters from Ujiteru’s period exists,
ers taking to arms) in the early years it was from 1532 and 1535. Two samurai by the name of
now a province under Ujichika and his retainer Fujinomiya and Okitsu are promoted to uma-
band. Two years later Ujichika died, June 23, and mawari unit members.
his first born, Ujiteru (1513-1536), takes over. Ujiteru was also, like his father had been,
Imagawa Ujiteru had gone through his gen- fond of waka and renga poems, and in a diary
puku ceremony the year before and in that called Sanetaka kôki from the period, written
sense, he was ready to take over the family seat. by Sanjônishi Sanetaka (1455-1537), an imperial
He was given the name Imagawa Gorô Ujiteru, court member, information of such an event
as a child he had gone by the same name as his taken place in 1526 can be found. So, in addition
father had done, Tatsuômaru. His mother was to being a warrior Ujiteru was also a cultural
the daughter of Kugyô (imperial court member) figure, and later other Imagawa lords would
Nakamikado Nobutane (1442-1525). Nobutane is devote themselves to more cultural activities
well known due to the diary he wrote, Nobutane and pleasurers than military related activities –
gyôki, of which the years 1480 to 1519 is still with a rather tragic outcome.
around. During Ujiteru’s rule it was Hôjô Ujitsuna who
Ujiteru was young when his father died, and ruled over Odawara in Sagami province–the
he was dependent on a loyal retainer band and neighboring province east of Suruga, along
advisory unit to continue a stable and sound the coast. Due to the previous collaboration
governing. This was all good, but his mother between Sôun and Ujichika, the two lords had
decided to be in charge. She cut of her hair and continued a cordial relationship. Ujitsuna
assumed the Buddhist name of Jukeini, then she moved east, while Ujiteru focused westward
took upon the role as assisting administrator and even tempted to look to the north. On June
until her son was old enough to rule. She did 27, 1535, Ujiteru sets off from Sunpu in front of
alright, and there are twenty-five letters with an army heading toward Kai province. Ujiteru
her seal still around, so in this, there are solid had decided to challenge Takeda Nobutora.

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 Nobutora was informed of Ujiteru’s advance “On August 22 (1535), the Lord of Sagami
and mobilized in hurry a force to confront the (Hôjô Ujitsuna) invaded Gunnai with 24,000
southern threat. The two forces struck camp in men, and our side got 2,000. Lord Oyamada
the vicinity of Manzawa-guchi, Koma district (Oyamada Nobuari) decided to fight, but he lost.
in Kai, west of Mount Fuji, right on the Kai- Many dead, and the Katsunuma (under Takeda
Suruga border. The source Myôhôji-ki have some Nobutomo) unit lost 270 men.”
information about an invasion conducted by This gives us a possible scenario in which
Imagawa Ujiteru in 1535, but no dates are men- Imagawa attacked on the eastern side toward
tioned, only the month the campaign started. Manzawa, while Hôjô attacked on the west side
In the Myôhôji-ki it seems that there was an of Mount Fuji toward Gunnai. This was the only
invasion toward the Oyamada clan’s territory real challenge, both offensive and defensive,
(Gunnai = Oyamada’s territory – Tsuru district), Ujiteru experienced during his reign, and he
east of Mount Fuji, but there is no mentioning managed to come out of it without any real
of the invasion toward Minami-Koma district in harm nor shame. Although it was Ujitsuna
this source. The number of soldiers mentioned who had aided him in time of need and forced
in the Myôhôji-ki are not believable, it states Nobutora to retreat, when he got news of the
24,000 men for the Imagawa and only 2,000 Hôjô’s advance from the southeast, it came to
for the Oyamada. The Myôhôji-ki is written by nothing. Likewise, Ujitsuna had to withdraw
pro-Takeda Buddhist priests, and the temple his forces, August 24, because Uesugi Tomooki
is located along the shore of Lake Kawaguchi invaded Hôjô’s territories. Takeda Nobutora and
– north of Mount Fuji. If it was the Oyamada Tomooki were allies. So, turning to one direc-
alone who had to face the invaders, then most tion or front opened another soft border for
likely this is why the numbers are so small for any potential enemy to challenge. This fighting
their side. Or it might be that a smaller force, among these clans came to nothing else but a
smaller than the 24,000 mentioned, attacked up lot of dead soldiers. Ujiteru and Ujitsuna had
this way along the east side of Mount Fuji, while managed to calm down Nobutora by defeating
another Imagawa force attacked toward Koma his men in battle, both at Manzawa-guchi on
district on the west side of Mount Fuji. Anyway, August 19 (Imagawa Tamekazushû), and at
it is mentioned that some prominent samurai Yamanaka on August 22 (Katsuyama-ki and
of the Oyamada were killed in the fighting, and Kaigen sôzuki). The Tamekazushû is a collection
the source states the Oyamada side lost. The of waka poems, authored by Reizei Tamekazu
Oyamada clan was at this time vassals of the (1486-1549) between 1517 and 1548.
Takeda. Also, a samurai by the name Katsunuma So there are two different versions of this
Gorô (Takeda Nobutomo) took part in the so-called invader, in one it was Nobutora attack-
fighting, but he was not killed, but other vassals ing and in the other it was Ujiteru and Ujitsuna
belonging to his house were. This above con- who were the invaders. Anyhow, the outcome
frontation was according to the Myôhôji-ki, and was just a lot of dead soldiers.
the invader into Gunnai were the Imagawa, but
Ujiteru did rather well during his years in
in the Katsuyama-ki it is more elaborated than
the driver seat, but it turned out to be a short
the previous source and contains a completely
period in which he would rule, at the young
different invader:
age of twenty-three he became sick and died

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 on March 17, 1536. It was a mysterious day at
Sunpu, because on the same day as Ujiteru
died, his younger brother Hikogomaru also
passed away. Evidence for this can be found in
Kôhakusai-ki and Tamekazu kyôshû–the first
one states March 17, while the latter states April
17. It is believed to have happened on March 17.
But both the Myôhôji-ki and the Katsuyama-ki
mention April 10.
Ujiteru had no male offspring to inherit, and
this, as many times before, led to an inheritance
conflict. According to Ujiteru’s will, he appoint-
ed his legitimate brother Shôhô (Yoshimoto) to
inherit.
It is mentioned that Ujichika had six sons,
but voices are also presenting theories that
he had only four sons. The six sons of Ujichika
were: Ujiteru (1513-1536), Hikogomaru (?-1536),
Genkô Etan (1517-1536), Shôni Senshô (1518-1588),
Imagawa Yoshimoto, Wiki Commons
Yoshimoto (1519-1560) and Ujitoyo (1521?-?).
Looking into the alternative theories–according in Owari from further back in history, due to
to one source which presents Hikogomaru and the clan’s origin, likewise a branch existed in
Ujitoyo to be the same person. Also, that Shôni Tôtômi, and that Ujitoyo was adopted into this
Senshô was Yoshimoto’s son has been narrated. Imagawa branch in Owari, is plausible. A lord
This then gives this lineup of heirs: Ujiteru, without an heir, could often adopt a boy from
Genkô Etan, Yoshimoto and Hikogomaru another family, sometimes even an adult male
(Ujitoyo). The third son, Genkô Etan, might have to inherit. Thereby making the previous narra-
been the one who died the same day as Ujiteru, tive true.
especially when looking at the year he passed Anyway, regarding the inheritance issue in
away, but this theory is not possible to verify, Suruga. Ujiteru’s younger brother, Yoshimoto,
and who would then be the contender against was a candidate. Ujitoyo was out of the equation
Yoshimoto in the Hanakura Rebellion. It is if one is to believe the Owari story. The only real
said that Ujitoyo was granted Nagoya Castle in contender left was Genkô Etan. According to the
Owari, and this castle was taken in 1538 by Oda family tree he would be next in line to inherit,
Nobuhide, and then Ujitoyo disappears from so what happened? Who was the culprit? It was
the historical records. There are some questions Yoshimoto who challenged Etan over the inher-
regarding this “assignment of Ujitoyo” and itance issue – so, Yoshimoto was the usurper?
there are few who support this version of events. No, he was not, Yoshimoto was a legitimate
Little do we know of what happened to Ujitoyo, son while Etan’s mother was “only” a mistress/
other than the statement that he appeared in concubine of Ujichika. It is thought that she was
Nagoya. But there was a branch of Imagawa the daughter of Kushima Kazusa no Suke, but

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 this is not verifiable. This theory might well be story is true, but it seems that the majority of
true though since Etan sought help from the Imagawa’s vassals supported Yoshimoto. He
Kushima clan, when he initiated the rebellion. received even support from Hôjô Ujitsuna and
If the story of Etan as an illegitimate son is cor- some say even the Takeda from Kai mobilized.
rect, then this gave Yoshimoto a legal right to Yoshimoto outnumbered his rival in plenty,
inherit, and especially if Ujiteru uttered this in so on this point there was never any question
his will, but like many times before such a dis- about the outcome of a military confronta-
pute set off an armed struggle. tion. The Kushima could muster quite a large
At an early age Yoshimoto was sent to force, but they seem to be the only major clan
a temple, and his name while a child was siding with Etan. Yoshimoto’s captain, Okabe
Hôkikumaru. He was sent to the Zentokuji Chikatsuna, attacked in early June the forward
temple at Seko (Yoshihara city) in Fuji district, castle of Katanokami, located in Yaizu – they
Suruga. His Buddhist name was Baigaku (also had raised their banners in favor for Etan. It was
read Sengaku) Shôhô. At the untimely death an easy victory and soon Okabe’s forces made
of his brothers, he was suddenly a strong can- it to the foot of the mountain Hanakura Castle
didate to inherit. His mother, Jukeini, and the was situated upon. Yoshimoto’s forces arrived at
boy’s guardian and mentor, Taigen Sûfu (Sessai), the outskirts of Hanakura sometime between
worked hard to make him a suitable leader. He June 11 and June 13. The Myôhôji-ki source says
was brought to Sunpu manor. Hôjô Ujitsuna from Sagami destroyed the
As his name suggests, Etan was also a Kushima clan at Hanakura on June 6 (1536) –
Buddhist monk at the time of Ujiteru’s death. this might be erroneous. Both regarding the
He was at the Henjôkôin temple in Hanakura date and that Ujitsuna took the castle. When
(Tôtômi province). Etan thought he was more of the overwhelming number of enemy forces
a legitimate candidate to inherit in retrospect approached the slopes of Hanakura, Etan
to his younger half-brother – Etan was older. decided to flee. He escaped westward over the
Therefore, he was set on confronting Yoshimoto mountain and into the valley of Setonoya, where
over this issue, but in order to take Sunpu he sought shelter at the Fumonji (Fumoninji)
with force, he needed samurai at his side. So, temple. It is from another Takeda source
he sought aid from a powerful local clan, the information is narrated on the final end. The
Kushima clan with their base of Takatenjin Kôhakusai-ki states the following:
(other source Tsuchikata). Etan made Hanakura “Etan committed suicide on June 14.”
Castle his fortified base, and now with military Not sure about this date either, but either on
support from Kushima, he then openly chal- or close to this June 14 is probably correct.
lenged Yoshimoto. Yoshimoto responded to the After the end of Etan and his followers,
challenge and at once he mobilized Imagawa Yoshimoto could focus on leading his clan, vas-
retainers at Sunpu before he set off toward sals and people within his territories. Evidence
Hanakura Castle. It is said that fear about the for his leadership can be found in letters going
Kushima clan becoming too powerful if Etan back already to June 10, 1536–at the time of the
should be elected heir was one of the prime Hanakura Rebellion. One letter was addressed
reasons why many Imagawa vassals supported to a retainer, Muraoka, while the other to a
Yoshimoto. Not sure if this previous “rumor” temple. While he served at the Zentokuji temple

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 at Seko in Fuji district, he went by the Buddhist source:
name Baigaku Shôhô, but now he had returned “Ujitsuna in Sagami orders his forces to invade
to secular life, and so he changed his name to Suruga and all the way up to Okitsu (located
Yoshimoto. east of Sunpu) the army burns (villages).”
Yoshimoto inherited a slightly tense situation The gist in this sentence is of course the
between his neighbor to the north, Takeda information that the Hôjô forces burn and
Nobutora, and his neighbor in the east, The destroy along their route toward Okitsu. Now,
Hôjô. Even though it is said that the two sup- the Myôhôji-ki is what we can call a pro-Takeda
ported Yoshimoto in the rebellion, and if this source, while the Kaigen sôzuki is written by
is correct there was some potential of cordial Kaigen Sôzu, a Shinto priest at the Tsuruoka
relationship on this front. Deliberation came, Hachimangû in Kamakura at Sôshôin, and this
and on February 10, 1537, Yoshimoto married Shrine was under the rule of the Odawara Hôjô.
the daughter of Nobutora (Myôhôji-ki). A foun- Making him most likely pro-Hôjô. So, which
dation for peace and collaboration had been source tells the truth? The kinsei letters issued
established. This on the other hand, angered by Ujitsuna, in where he orders his troops to
Hôjô Ujitsuna. But to call any marriage arrange- behave, are solid evidence that the Myôhôji-ki
ments for a solid alliance or foundation for a tries to portray Ujitsuna as a ruthless destroyer,
lasting peace during the 16th century, would be but on this occasion, there are credible evidence
to exaggerate. But this alliance was profitable that this was not the case.
for Yoshimoto, for the time being, and he would What Ujitsuna aimed for is a bit unclear, but it
have to show that he was worthy of this trust. was probably just to express his resentment over
Both to his alliance partner and to those of his the betrayal, marriage, and for the agreement
retainers who were still anxious souls as to their which Yoshimoto and Nobutora had signed. But
election of leader. Only good governing and cor- he was probably equally eager to occupy some
rect actions would do him right. This marriage more land if he was able to do so. According to
alliance with Takeda soured the relationship the Myôhôji-ki: In 1536, Nobutora had invaded
with the Hôjô to the east in Odawara (Myôhôji- Sagami province’s Tsukui area and pillaged the
ki), and almost at the same time as Yoshimoto village of Aone. The Takeda had taken a hundred
and Nobutora made peace, Ujitsuna prepared or so villagers captive; women, old men, and
to invade Suruga. Priests were chanting at tem- children who were brought back to Kai. The
ples while Ujitsuna invaded the eastern part payback should have been directed against
of Suruga on February 26 (1537). Ujitsuna had Takeda, but since the Imagawa and Takeda
issued letters which prohibits his soldiers’ reck- were now allying Ujitsuna decided to punish
less behavior, like destruction and pillaging Yoshimoto. In the Kaigen sôzuki it is noted that
(Kaigen sôzuki), on the 21st. To corroborate this Ujitsuna had made camp at Yoshihara in Fuji
information–three letters exist with the date district, east of Fuji River. When the praying and
February 21, and one letter is dated February 23. chanting was over on March 2, Ujitsuna decided
All four letters aim at temples in the region east on March 4, to return home. During the stay
of Fuji River – Fuji and Suntô districts. In the at Yoshihara, Ujitsuna had taken control of the
Myôhôji-ki there is conflicting information on coastal region of Suntô district (Kaigen sôzuki).
the invasion on February 26. According to this Therefore, in this campaign Ujitsuna’s goal had

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 been to punish Yoshimoto, and if possible, cap-
ture territory from him, this according to the
Kaigen sôzuki.
In the Myôhôji-ki:
“This year (1537) February 10. This province’s
(Kai) lord Takeda (Nobutora) sends his daughter
to lord Suruga (Yoshimoto). On this Ujitsuna
in Sagami becomes angered and decides to
invade. His army makes it to Okitsu, burning
along the way. Takeda mobilizes and marches
up to Subashiri-guchi (present Gotemba city)
Mishuku (Katsurayama vassal) comes to Kai,
and he acts as a guide for the army (Takeda).”
It is not mentioned in the source whether
the Takeda was involved in any fighting or not.
There were several encounters during this year
in Suruga, but there is no more information of
any encounters this year in the Myôhôji-ki – the
reason–the Takeda was probably not involved.
Takeda Shingen, Wiki Commons
From the Kaigen sôzuki one can see several
encounters, and one was at Yoshihara in Suruga he decided to raise the flag of rebellion. To
on March 4, and again a battle or skirmish at quell this insurrection as quickly as possible,
Yoshihara on April 20–in which twenty-four sol- Yoshimoto called upon Amano Torakage, Lord
diers were killed. On June 13, Hôjô soldiers once of Inui Castle, and within a short period of time
more invaded Suruga and there was a battle on Horigoe was defeated – his castle was attacked.
June 14, but not sure where it took place. A letter (in the Amano collection) of commen-
Ujitsuna returned to Odawara, but the east- dation (kanjô) dated April 28, 1537, is evidence
ern part of Suruga continued to be a hot spot for this encounter on April 26. It seems that in
between Ujitsuna and Yoshimoto for years to the eastern part of Suruga it was the Fuji clan in
come. Sparse with contemporary sources makes which Yoshimoto had placed his trust in, and
it a little difficult to keep track of events during likewise in Tôtômi it was the Amano clan. Like
the 1530s and 1540s. in the activities against the Horigoe, it was up to
the Amano to deal with problems in his neigh-
In the east Ujitsuna continued to harass and
borhood. These two families became trusted
burn the eastern part of Suruga, the Suntô
vassals of Yoshimoto for many years to come.
district. But soon the situation to the west
of Suruga started to heat up. Within Tôtômi The deal with Nobutora to the north had been
province there were descendants of Imagawa settled earlier as mentioned by the marriage
Ryôshun (1326-?), and one in particularly by the between Yoshimoto and Nobutora’s daughter,
name of Horigoe Ujinobu, Lord of Mitsukeha and so in June of 1541, Nobutora travels to Sunpu
Castle in Tôtômi, had become restless and Castle in Suruga. It is believed it was due to
festivities on the marriage four years before

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 between his daughter and Yoshimoto. On wish- invaded Mikawa, and in response to this inva-
ing to return to Kai, Nobutora was hindered at sion Yoshimoto came to the rescue of clans
the border by soldiers dispatched by Shingen. within this province.
This is the infamous coup by Shingen. According to the Mikawa (no) Kuni kikigaki:
Nobutora was now banished from Kai and had “December 24, forces from Owari invades
to spend the rest of his life outside Kai province. Mikawa. The castle of Ueno is attacked. Naitô
He was permitted to stay in Sunpu. Kiyonaga and his nephew, (Naitô) Shirôzaemon
Yoshimoto inherited two provinces after Masanari, 15 years old, defends well. A relief
Ujiteru, Suruga and Tôtômi, and parts of army arrives from Suruga and a battle occurs at
Mikawa, but in the province of Mikawa, west Azukizaka.”
of Tôtômi, he had several alliance treaties This is not mentioned in the Shinchô kôki,
and among these were the Toda in Tahara, the but it makes sense, when looking at Yoshimoto’s
Makino in Yoshida, Matsudaira in Okazaki, moves – he responds to a call for help. In this
and the Mizuno in Kariya. This situation was first encounter the Imagawa side won, and by
satisfactory, but gradually Oda Nobuhide from this victory Yoshimoto manage to fend off the
Owari, west of Mikawa, was starting to seduce Oda for a while – not a lot of contemporary
and put pressure on the clans in Mikawa. sources on this either, so it is difficult to make a
Intimidating minor invasions started to stretch more detailed chronology. It is also mentioned
Yoshimoto’s patience. In the long run this situ- that the Matsudaira took part in this confronta-
ation became intolerable, and Yoshimoto had tion, and especially the Okudaira clan’s activi-
to respond. Although he tried to strengthen his ties are described in the Tsukude sonshi.
alliance network in the eastern part of Mikawa, As for the year 1545, there was a battle at
Yoshimoto realized that only a military cam- Kitsunebashi (present Fuji city, at Imai) on
paign would give him control and hopefully August 16. Imagawa Yoshimoto sets off from
peace in that province. Records of his major first Sunpu on July 24 and makes it to Zentokuji
invasion can be found in the Shinchô kôki: temple at the foot of Mount Fuji (Imagawa
“In the first ten days of August (other Tamekazushû). The Kôhakusai-ki contains more
source December) (1542), the Lord of Suruga information and states Yoshimoto stays at
(Yoshimoto) invades Mikawa and comes to Zentokuji until August 11. According to letters
Tahara. Here he forms a seven-line battle of commendation to Amano Kageyasu and
array. Oda Bingo no Kami of Anjô Castle is told Torakage the battle occurred on August 16. In
of the enemies’ whereabouts, he moves out the letters one can see that it must have been an
toward Yahagi. Ihara (Imagawa vassal) from intense encounter, because vassals belonging to
Suruga forms the vanguard and moves toward Torakage received injuries in the battle, sword
Azukizaka. Oda Bingo no Kami turns up and his and arrow wounds. This move from Yoshimoto
brothers, Yojirô, Magosaburô and Shirôjirô are seemed to be grounded on a planned strategy
the first to engage the enemy forces.” to capture castles and chase the Hôjô out of
There are two other sources, Tsukude sonshi Suruga. Secure the eastern part of Suruga, and
and Mikawa (no) Kuni kikigaki, as well dealing thereby ensuring that the Suruga-Sagami bor-
with this first encounter at Azukizaka, and in der remain according to the older partitioning
one of them it is noted that the Owari force line between the two clan’s territories. Hôjô

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 was involved in military activities against the Oda Nobunaga’s first battle (uijin). So, accord-
Yamanouchi Uesugi clan in Musashi province, ing to the Shinchô kôki:
and this activity tied up Hôjô forces, making it “Oda Saburô Nobunaga becomes a warrior.
impossible for Hôjô to halt or face Yoshimoto’s Hirate Nakatsukasa (Masahide) is his guardian.
forces at this time in eastern Suruga – certainly Taking on a red hood, surcoat, and armor on
not in force. his horse – he (Nobunaga) sets off. The soldiers
One has to say that Yoshimoto was quite came into Mikawa, and they came to Kira
skilled in foreign diplomacy. Although things Ôhama (a fort?)–and here they set fire to villag-
got off on the wrong foot with the Hôjô clan, es. The army made camp (field-camp), but the
he managed to tie-up with Uesugi Norimasa, next day they (Oda army) returned to Nagoya
to the northeast of Hôjô’s territories, and made (their base castle).”
sure that as soon as Hôjô forces moved west- The source Mikawa (no) Kuni kikigaki express-
ward – Uesugi would invade from the east and es almost the same story as the Shinchô kôki:
Hôjô would then be forced to “Nobunaga, 13 years-old, his uijin (first battle)
retreat. In the north was Takeda at Ôhama (Mikawa province). Burning and
Nobutora and there was no destroying, but the next day they returned to
threat from that front, in fact in camp.”
times of need Nobutora would LEARN
MORE This is all the information we got on this
aid Yoshimoto.
encounter, even the Shinchô kôki is rather
sparse with details, and the year is the only
Mikawa province at War clue as to when it took place – no month nor
It is believed that Yoshimoto focused seriously day mentioned. If there ever was any serious
on Mikawa from 1546 and onwards. Since many fighting is also unknown, but local warriors
years before it had been the front region against would surely have fought against the invaders,
Owari, but from now on he aimed for a com- and if the Oda army actually tried to attack the
plete control of Mikawa, but he was not alone, fortress mentioned, then there would have been
Oda had not given up–far from it. military activities for the young Nobunaga to
Before the Oda ventured on a new invasion, have taken part in. This was probably not a large
Yoshimoto decided to take control of as much battle, but more like a raid and some skirmish
territory as possible. He ordered Amano Aki no activities. During this time in history the area
Kami Kageyasu, lord of Inui Castle in Tôtômi, to was under Imagawa influence, and this is surely
attack the castle of Imabashi (present Yoshida the sole reason why it was targeted by Oda. It is
Castle) in Mikawa. It was held by an Oda general not mentioned that there was a castle nor a for-
by the name of Toda Nobunari. The Amano tress at Ôhama in the Shinchô kôki, although it
force captured the castle and Amano Torakage is mentioned in modern day history books, but
received a kanjô (letter of commendation) from a small fort might have been there.
Yoshimoto, praising Torakage for his brilliant Usually a uijin would be a large battle or
actions with the spear. extensive military campaign, involving several
In 1547 the Oda met an Imagawa force at military clashes. In the case of Nobunaga, this
Ôhama Castle. The contest for Mikawa was still seems to have been a rather disappointing first
going and according to the Shinchô kôki it was

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 encounter, well, for a young samurai it was prob- tighten his hold on this province. Even though
ably exciting enough. The sources are few and Oda had been pushed back, there were still
sparse, which leaves us in the dark as to what enough worries to keep an eye on, and after
really happened. It might have been a splendid Matsudaira Hirotada had been killed by his own
encounter with local samurai, if there was a vassal, Iwamatsu Hachiya, Yoshimoto feared
castle attack, then Nobunaga might have done more clans would join Oda or rebel. So, in 1549
quite well, but this remains a mystery. Yoshimoto’s chief strategist, Taigen Sessai, led
It would not take long before they met again an army toward Anjô Castle, located within
on the field of battle, and in 1548 the two armies Hekikai district.
met head on again at Azukizaka. Like the pre- The castle of Anjô had been captured by Oda
vious time in 1542 the Imagawa side won. With Nobuhide in 1540 – he had defeated Anjô Nagaie.
this victory the Imagawa managed to get a firm Anjô was now held by Oda Nobuhiro, and this
grip on Mikawa. Letters of commendation veri- was of course a target which needed to be taken
fies the notion of a great victory. in order to secure Imagawa influence in the
After the victory at Azukizaka, Yoshimoto region. According to the Mikawa (no) Kuni
gained a solid grip on Mikawa. Oda Nobuhide kikigaki, Sessai attacked Anjô on March 19, but
was from now on a little humbler toward his the defenders did well, and the attackers had to
adversary after this defeat. This little timeout, retreat. It might be evidence of fierce fighting,
when it came to hostile activities from the for in this first encounter Honda Tadataka,
Oda side, gave Yoshimoto an opportunity to Tadakatsu’s father, was hit by an arrow and

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 died. Even the name of the soldier who fired the Nobuhide, in which he proposed an exchange
arrow is noted – Maejima Denjirô. The attackers between Takechiyo and Nobuhiro. Nobuhiro
decided to pull out, but the tense situation was in a real dilemma, and in the event of a
remained, but Sessai had not given up. There decline to the proposal – his son would surely
seem to have been several skirmishes in the area be killed. Nobuhiro might have surrendered
and gradually many villages were torched to the to Sessai as the letter was sent, but in anyway,
ground. at some point he was captured, and Sessai had
In September of 1549 there was fighting, finally gained some leverage. Nobuhide agreed
and a letter (a transcript) dated September 18, to the terms and the exchange of prisoners took
and addressed to Hatakama Heishirô from place at Kasadera in Owari on November 10.
Yoshimoto conveys the notion that the situa- Not only was this a great victory for Sessai and
tion between Okazaki and Anjô is an ongoing Yoshimoto, but it secured Mikawa province, and
concern for him. It was during this time that the Oda would not make any serious attempts
Takechiyo (later known as Tokugawa Ieyasu) toward the Imagawa from now on.
was captured by the Oda clan, and this situa- Although no real threats any more from the
tion which now occurred could be potentially Oda, there was one bastion which needed to be
dangerous for the Imagawa Matsudaira rela- taken in order to “clean up” Oda remnants in
tions. So, a difficult situation had arisen, and Mikawa. The Imagawa army attacked the castle
Yoshimoto was well aware that this event could of Uenoba on November 23 (Uenoba is also
spoil most of his accomplishments in Mikawa. referred to as a mere toride; small fort. Many of
It was therefore imperative that right actions the labelled “castles” were just small forts, and
would be taken and quickly. The main reason not a huge castle made of stone as one might
why Anjô had become the primary target was believe, and a small fort might just be between
due to its commander, Nobuhiro. He was the 100 meters by 50 meters or something like
first-born son of Nobuhide, so of course he was this in total area). A letter Yoshimoto wrote to
of great value to his father. If the Imagawa man- Mishuku Tôshichirô is evidence for this action
aged to capture Anjô, they would not only gain taking place. The original letter does not exist
a solid bastion in the area, but also a valuable anymore, it is a transcript.
hostage. This was the main reason of why Anjô From the end of 1549 to 1554 there was a rela-
became the prime target, to take Nobuhiro cap- tive peaceful period in the region. The provinc-
tive and arrange a hostage exchange – thereby es of Mikawa, Tôtômi and most of Suruga were
being able to send Takechiyo safely off to Sunpu, under Imagawa Yoshimoto’s control, still a tense
which was the initial idea. situation with the Hôjô in the east. There was
Sessai was still in charge of the campaign a potential danger that the “peace” would col-
against Anjô, and on November 8 of 1549, his lapse and so in 1554, by the initiative of Taigen
army of seven thousand surrounded the castle. Sessai, the three clans formed an alliance, which
A fierce attack commenced and soon the third would in fact last until December of 1568.
courtyard was taken, then on to the second In 1554 the three provinces formed a peace
courtyard, and finally only the honmaru (main agreement, and an alliance. This made it pos-
courtyard) remained. Now, Sessai sealed off the sible for the Hôjô to focus on the Kantô region
honmaru completely, and he sent a letter to Oda to the east. While Takeda Shingen could turn

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 Okehazama 1560, Wiki Commons

north, toward Shinano, and Yoshimoto could Suganuma’s forces crossed over Kazakoshi Pass
concentrate his forces in a westerly direction. and soon thereupon attacked Ameyama Castle.
In 1556 a captain of Yoshimoto by the name of The castle was stormed, and it is thought it was
Suganuma Sadamura met with forces under captured. In the attack Sadamura was hit by an
the command of Okudaira Sadakatsu (Oda arrow from inside Awanami, and he
side) at Ameyama (present Nukata district, died shortly after. His two younger-
Ameyama) on August 4. A small clan by the rothers suffered the same fate – they
name Awanami held the castle of Ameyama, and were also killed in the battle. It is LEARN
due to Okudaira’s persuasion they had turned noted that Okudaira’s forces were MORE
their back on Yoshimoto and joined Oda. This forced to retreat, so it must have
betrayal had to be punished, and soon orders been a ferocious battle around Ameyama.
were issued to the clans in the eastern part of After securing much of Mikawa Yoshimoto
Mikawa to move on Ameyama Castle with its was ready to march further west. The goal was
commander, Awanami Sadanao. Rumors spread probably not Kyôto, it was to quell the Oda clan,
and soon Okudaira received information about and take control of Owari. Yoshimoto controlled
an upcoming campaign against Awanami. already a few bastions with additional land
Okudaira Sadakatsu mobilized his forces and within that province, but the province was far
moved out. From the Imagawa side it was from his yet. A local lord by the name of Oda
mainly Noda Castle’s commander Suganuma Nobunaga had to be crushed. This campaign
Sadamura who took the lead of the army would conclude when Nobunaga defeated
against Awanami. During the night of August 4, Yoshimoto at Okehazama in 1560.

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 The popular version is that Yoshimoto koku of the provinces held by Yoshimoto in 1560
brought with him approx. 25,000 men, and to be between 900,000 and 1,000,000 koku. Out
that Nobunaga had about 2,500. Sources which of these numbers one can assume that the ratio
convey numbers are; Nihon senshi (from the was 250 soldiers per 10,000 koku. This would
19th century)–Imagawa 25,000 and Oda 4,000, make up to be about 25,000 using the above
while the Shinchô kôki–Imagawa 45,000 and numbers and calculations. But there are exam-
Oda 2,000. The “considered” neutral Hôjô ples of huge variations in the way some clans’
godaiki – Imagawa 25,000 and Oda 600 to 700. numbers turned out from 10,000 koku. It was
In the Mikawa Monogatari it is only numbers the lord who determined the number of soldiers
on Oda–3,000. The Kôyô gunkan reports more a junior landlord should mobilize, and therefore
than 20,000 on the Imagawa side. In the Dôke we have some examples with great variations.
sokanki the number for Imagawa is 60,000, and This huge number of ashigaru, without much
like the previous mentioned Shinchô kôki this military experience would be most likely in
is a source written by the Oda side. case of a surprise attack upon them, quickly be
The reason why the numbers are so huge struck by panic and flee. This goes a long way
in two of the sources can be explained by the to explain why the Imagawa army was taken by
possibility that rumors were a part of warfare complete surprise and could not offer any good
during the Sengoku period. Maybe Imagawa defense. One other factor is that Yoshimoto’s
tried to intimidate his enemies to surrender forces were scattered around – camps at various
just by spreading the word of how large his places. So, on the rush on Yoshimoto’s camp, he
army was. In any case it seems to be the norm would not have had more than a few thousand
that the victors exaggerate enemy numbers, and (estimated at around 5,000) soldiers at hand.
they are holding back on their own numbers, First of all, Yoshimoto could mobilize troops
and especially casualties, in order to seem invin- from three provinces, while Nobunaga had
cible and boost morale–not only toward their only one province to call upon. So, a three to
own soldiers, but also toward the population one ratio to begin with, but the greater number
within their own territory, and of course trying of Yoshimoto’s army were peasants, maybe as
to intimidate their rivals in adjacent provinces. many as 20- to 22,000 of them. Leaving only
Looking at the mobilization capacity of about 3,000 to be of samurai class. This number
Yoshimoto in 1560. First it was not the koku of samurai seems small, when looking at the
system at this time in history, but the kanmon mobilization capacity he had, but to be honest,
system. This in itself makes it rather difficult there were not as many genuine samurai as
to assess the mobilization capacity in detail. one might think at this time. The majority of
Therefore, we look at numbers from the land soldiers were ashigaru, mostly farmers in which
survey executed during the end of the 16th cen- only some had military experience–they were
tury. Of course, more paddy fields would have not professional soldiers, but more and more of
been constructed and cultivated during the them gradually became semi-professional sol-
sixty years or so since the 1530s up to 1590s, but diers. The greater part of the information above
it will still give us a good indication of what was is taken from a passage in the book “Sengoku
available during Yoshimoto’s period. Within the kassen dai-jiten 3” (Shinjinbutsu ôraisha,
numbers available one can estimate the total Tokyo 1989), and written by Professor Tetsuo

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 Owada, Shizuoka University. Then what about
Nobunaga’s numbers? He is said to have had
about 2,500, which would then consist of more
samurai class in ratio compared to Yoshimoto’s
army. With soldiers only drawn from Owari
province, but not to forget–not from a unified
Owari (see the book “Okehazama no shinjitsu
2007”, page 42). A portion of eastern Owari was
already under Imagawa control and rule, some
states almost half of Owari was not under his
control. So being able to mobilize 2,000 to 3,000
genuine samurai is not a plausible figure, but
not to forget, Owari was a relative populace
province, but it was surely many semi-profes-
sional soldiers, and ashigaru, in Nobunaga’s
force, just as in Yoshimoto’s army. In a land
survey executed between 1684 and 1688 it was
assessed that Owari held rise fields to a value
of 480,000 koku (1 koku is about 180 liters of
rise – a grown man’s consumption of rise during Hojo Soun, Wiki Commons
a whole year). One has to consider the time gap Ujitsuna established the Sôunji temple in the
between 1560 and 1688, which also means that hills of Hakone Mountains at a place called
the expected output of koku in 1560 would be Yumoto, and he was rigorous engaged in attend-
much less than in 1688. On basis of the numbers ing the yearly ceremony to honor his late father.
presented the output of koku which Nobunaga Ujitsuna had in fact taken over the clan in 1518,
could acquire is estimated to about 200,000 when Sôun retired from public life. He had
koku in 1560. probably governed most of the administration
for the last ten years. Sôun allegedly lived to be
The Hojo clan pressures from the east 87 years old (some controversy exists regarding
In a previous chapter the life of Imagawa his age), and during his last years he would
Ujichika was described, and we got an intro- probably have been directing/counseling his
duction into some of Hôjô Sôun’s activities son from the shadows. The Hôjô held castles in
– the founder of the Odawara Hôjô. Therefore, both Izu and Sagami provinces when Ujitsuna
this chapter will deal with the generations took over, and their military targets lay mainly
after Sôun, with focus on Ujitsuna, Ujiyasu in the east, but Ujitsuna was also eager to make
and Ujimasa. On August 15, 1519, Sôun died at military advances southeast toward the Bôsô
his Nirayama Castle in Izu (Kôyasan kakochô, peninsula (present Chiba prefecture), which
Hôjô godaiki, Hôjô-ki), and his first-born son, consists of, from south to north, Awa, Kazusa
Ujitsuna, became heir. and Shimôsa provinces.
Ujitsuna organized a grand funeral ceremony Their focus would primarily be on the central
for his late father, and to honor him further, province on the peninsula, Kazusa, which was

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 ruled by the Takeda clan, but gradually during accomplishment. What Ujitsuna did was to fur-
the 1500s the Satomi from Awa gained more ter- ther build upon a solid foundation work. Sôun
ritorial control of this province. handed over the tora (tiger) seal to Ujitsuna in
Ujitsuna though, was not the first to invade 1518, and this seal, which was the official mark
Bôsô. His father, Sôun, is recorded for executing on a letter or document issued by the leader
such an undertaking in 1507 – a letter at the of the clan, future generations after Ujitsuna
Tsurumine Hachimangû Shrine in Kazusa, would continue to uphold this practice. He
mentions Ise Shinkurô (Sôun) crossing the was also, like his father, skilled in all military
ocean. In an old record at the Sôgenji temple, related arts. He soon continued the aggressive
located at Mobara (Mobara city), in the Chôsei policy in which his father had started, and
district in Kazusa, it is recorded a few notes which he had taken part in, and of course
mentioning Sôun’s forces coming to the penin- learnt a lot from the old veteran. At the time he
sula in 1517. Hôjô’s interventions on the penin- took officially over the family in 1518, he was
sula was clearly not only something Ujitsuna already thirty-two years old – a veteran warrior
implemented during his rule, but most likely and administrator. When it came to military
it was he who led the forces and not his elderly objectives, he continued after his late father the
father, especially the intervention in 1517 – this land grabbing war against clans on the Kantô.
was an expedition to Kazusa province to aid On becoming the clan’s leader, he moved to
one of the Takeda clans, which was involved Odawara Castle in Sagami. Around 1524 (anoth-
in a domestic struggle. A domestic dispute er source 1522, and another 1523) he changed
within the Marigayatsu (also read as Mariya and his surname from Ise to Hôjô. There is some
Mariyatsu) clan (Takeda branch). When the Hôjô controversy regarding the year he adopted the
army was on the move, the banners belonging surname of Hôjô. But are there any letters which
to Ise Shinkurô would reveal the crest of Sôun, points to a specific year? Yes, on January 12, 1524,
and therefore they would probably assume it a letter signed and with the seal of Ise Ujitsuna
was Sôun in person leading this force. It might can be seen. While on April 10, the same year,
have been Sôun in person in 1507, but I do not a letter signed by Hôjô Ujitsuna and stamped
believe he led the forces in person in 1517 – if it with the seal are evidence for a shift. Clearly out
is to believe he was more than eighty years old of evidence by letters there is a change from Ise
at that time. There is evidence, letters, that the to Hôjô during the spring of 1524. This was also
Hôjô managed to occupy, or maybe they were the year he advanced toward Edo Castle with his
granted, some land in Kazusa, as a reward for army.
their efforts in the domestic struggle within the This move was initiated by a messenger arriv-
Marigayatsu clan. Not easy to determine exactly ing and conveying a call for help – it came from
how they acquired this land, but it is recorded it Ôta Suketaka. Ujitsuna responded without hes-
was at a place called Ninomiya. itation. The reason for this eagerness to aid was
Ujitsuna was a skilled administrator and he simply an opportunity, as he saw it, to hopefully
initiated land surveys and established a good acquire more territory, and with this request for
administrative organization. We must not help an opportunity surfaced.
forget he inherited a well-functioning organi- Upon reaching Shinagawa, Ujitsuna’s van-
zation after his father–praise to Sôun for a great guard stood face to face with Uesugi Tomoki’s

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 forces–Tomooki (1488-1537) was Lord of Edo in Shinagawa. Seven to eight times the cavalry
Castle. Two letters convey an idea of Ujitsuna’s went back and forward and clashed with each
advance, one letter is issued on January 11 and other. Ujitsuna’s main camp was slow in arriv-
the other the next day. The two letters are kinsei ing, but when they neared the field of battle, he
letters (prohibits his men from destroying and divided his forces and sent them east and west.
pillaging during their advance), and issued Soon the enemy was surrounded. Within a short
to two temples, Myôkokuji and Honkôji, in time, the enemy ranks collapses, and Tomooki
the vicinity of Shinagawa. Signboards would realizes defeat – he makes it back to Edo Castle.
then be placed at the entrance of the temples Arrows fly as they try to make it back alive.
(called seisatsu), with the information issued by Ujitsuna’s army sets out a battle cry as they
Ujitsuna, warning his own soldiers of strict pun- pursue the enemy. Tomooki is inside Edo, but he
ishment if they do not comply with the issued feels unsafe inside its walls – he decides to make
prohibition. his escape. So, during the night he makes it
Tomooki orders his forward troops to attack, over the walls and runs toward Kawagoe Castle.
and his vanguard is led by Soga Shinshirô, while In the morning Ujitsuna utters: “The enemy
Ujitsuna’s vanguard is led by Tame Rokurô. seems to have fallen, lets us pursue them and
The two forces met at Takanawa-no-hara (The strike them down”. He sends his soldiers toward
Takanawa plain) in Shinagawa. While the two Itabashi (castle). His men hunt enemy stragglers
vanguard forces clashed, the second division for a while, but Ujitsuna enters Edo Castle. A
under Daidôji Hachirôbee split his forces in head viewing ceremony commences on the
two and let them attack the enemy force from already fallen enemies. Next the army makes it
both flanks, almost surrounding the enemy to Hitotsugi-ga-hara field where their standards
completely. This tactical move made the Uesugi (flags/banners) are raised, as a victory cry reso-
ranks panic and collapse and they fled back nates in the wind – it was repeated three times.”
to Edo Castle where they prepared for a siege. According to the Ihon Odawara-ki:
There are few sources on this battle, and like “Tomooki set out from Edo and struck camp
many times before they all differentiate some- at Shinagawa and Kosugi. The plan was to
what on how the story goes. intercept the Hôjô advance by attacking them,
According to the Hôjô-ki: but Ujitsuna detoured via Shibuya and pressed
“On January 13, Uesugi’s retainers, Ôta toward Edo (from the north). At this time
Genroku (Suketaka) and Gensaburô, rebelled Ôta Suketaka and his brother, now betraying
against their lord (Uesugi Tomooki). They called Uesugi, called out to Ujitsuna and guided the
out to Odawara (Hôjô) and talked about a plan. enemy forces into Edo Castle.”
Ujitsuna called on soldiers from Izu and Sagami. After Tomooki had fled from Edo he made it
The army marched towards Edo Castle. Lord north to Itabashi Castle, the castle commander,
of Edo, Uesugi Tomooki, decided to intercept Itabashi (given name unknown), and his young-
the enemy instead of staying behind the walls. er brother, Ichidayû, clashed with Hôjô soldiers,
He set out for Shinagawa. He struck camp and and both of them were killed in their attempt
waited for the enemy army. The vanguard of to obstruct the enemy advance–Tomooki fled to
Ujitsuna’s forces and Tomooki’s vanguard gen- Kawagoe.
eral, Soga Jinshirô, met at the Field of Takanawa This victory at Edo resounded throughout

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 the Kantô region, and it is recorded in the 7, marching toward Saruhashi (Kôhakusai-ki)
Hôjô-ki that two local lords, Moro Tarô (Iruma in Kai province (Ôtsuki city), and probably
district, Musashi province) and Okamoto his initial plan was to march on toward Edo to
Shôgen (unknown person, there were a family help the Kanrei to retake the castle, well the
in Izu province called Okamoto – ji-samurai, intention might have been there, but his plan
but probably not any relation to this Shôgen), went sour. Hôjô Ujitsuna was quick to respond
joined Ujitsuna’s army. Ujitsuna places Tôyama to Nobutora’s moves and marched up to the bor-
Shirôemon on Edo Castle, while he returns to der of Kai province’s Gunnai area. It is also said
Odawara Castle (Hôjô-ki). that it was Ujitsuna who first initiated a march
Upon hearing what had happened, Kanrei toward Kai. Is it more likely it was Nobutora
Uesugi Norifusa (1467-1525), who was at who moved first with his initial plan to assist
Hachigata Castle, became furious. He uttered Uesugi Tomooki, but in the Katsuyama-ki, there
something like this: is one especially interesting sentence in this
“let us mobilize quickly and chase Tôyama out passage:
of Edo!” “The soldiers worked on the camp for days,
Sounds as a good idea, but Norifusa was ill, and a massive campsite was constructed.”
and he had to recover before any campaign This sounds like they prepared to face an
could be undertaken under his command. invasion, from Ujitsuna. The soldiers built a
Serious attempts to retake Edo seemed to have fortified campsite and according to the sources
been postponed, but in July the same year forc- it blocked completely the access route into
es under his command roamed around in the Gunnai. The armies faced each other for several
areas of Edo Castle. Letters Norifusa issued are days, and several battles or skirmishes occurred
evidence of this notion – two temples, Honkôji (Katsuyama-ki). There seem to have been no
and Myôkokuji (in Shinagawa), received kinsei direct victor in this encounter, but the goal,
letters (prohibits plunder and destruction). from Ujitsuna’s point of view, was achieved –
The same two temples received the same kind Nobutora was thwarted from marching any
of letters in 1524, but then they were issued by further – if one is to believe he was heading for
Ujitsuna, when he was marching toward Edo. the Kantô region.
The Uesugi clans on the Kantô became more and Nobutora was not giving up his attempt to aid
more distressed upon how they should handle Tomooki and according to the Kôhakusai-ki:
their southwestern enemy. In January of 1525, “On July 20 (1524) Nobutora was marching
Tomooki moved from Kawagoe to Matsuyama toward the Kantô, and he attacks Iwatsuki
Castle, located further north, and at the camp- Castle.”
site at Fujita, he met with Uesugi Norifusa–the Iwatsuki Castle is located in Iwatsuki city,
two had now joined forces. Finally, they had Saitama prefecture. It was a formidable fortress,
realized that only cooperation could give them and the defenders used the Motoara River to
a heads up on Ujitsuna’s constant invasions. its full potential–with wide moats almost sur-
But first, let us take a step back–there was rounding the whole castle. Not much informa-
one other player in the game, Takeda Nobutora tion other than the sentence in Kôhakusai-ki,
from Kai. He had mobilized 18,000 troops and nothing else found in any other Takeda
(Katsuyama-ki, Myôhôji-ki) and was on February

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 related sources on this campaign. Nothing in been some exaggerations in the recordings of
the Hôjô’s sources on Nobutora’s attack either. this battle – it is only the kakochô source which
Although, Norifusa struggled with poor convey any numbers. Tomooki received news on
health, he tried to organize a campaign to force the events at Iwatsuki and dispatched a relief
the Hôjô forces out of Musashi. On October army as quickly as he could. Ujitsuna on the oth-
10, 1524, Ôuchi Uesugi Norimasa gathered his er hand, handed over the castle to his captain,
army at Hirai Castle in Kôzuke province and Shibue Saburô (?-1531). While the Uesugi army
led them out toward Edo. On the way south, was marching, Ujitsuna was returning, and it is
they came upon their first target. It was Moro noted that he arrived at Edo in the evening on
Tarô’s castle within Iruma district, in Musashi. February 9. The forces under Uesugi lined up on
Moro had joined in with Ujitsuna earlier this the border between Kôzuke and Musashi. For
year and now they were punished for their six or seven days they moved in on Shôbu Castle,
betrayal. But Ujitsuna reacted quickly upon (Minami Saitama district, Shôbu town), and
receiving news of an enemy on the move, and Kubô Ashikaga Takamoto’s second son, Shirô
on October 10, he led his army toward Moro. On (later named Uesugi Norihiro), led the attack.
the way he met with a senior vassal of Uesugi In a letter issued by Ujitsuna on March 10, and
Norimasa, Nagao Norinaga, and the two com- addressed to Nagao Tamekage in Echigo, there is
manders came to deal – talks of peace became a lot of information, but included here are only
the topic, and at Katsunuma, south of Moro, the main points:
the two sides finally agreed to a peace deal. “previously in February, the fort, Shôbu,
In the deal Moro Castle was handed over to belonging to Kaneda was attacked by Uesugi
Norifusa’s troops. After signing the necessary Norihiro (?-1551).”
documents, Ujitsuna returned to Odawara. Entering the month of March, a new target
The grand plan of Tomooki to recapture Edo appeared for Ujitsuna, and this time it was the
came to nothing. But often a peace deal like the castle of Kisai (Kasai) in Musashi province, locat-
one mentioned above, was as quickly as it was ed northwest of Kônodai. It was in fact quite
signed equally quickly annulled. Ôta Sukeyori close to the border of Shimôsa province, and a
on Iwatsuki Castle sided also with the Uesugi, clear indication that he neared the provinces
and suddenly this fortification became first on Bôsô. Not much information on this attack,
priority. So once again Ujitsuna led his army but it occurred on March 23, 1525, and Ujitsuna’s
out of Odawara, on January 4, first to Edo, then opponent was Ôishi Iwami no Kami.
there was heavy rain, so they spent one day in The Kantô Kanrei Norifusa tried exhaustedly
camp, and then north toward Iwatsuki. From to the last to oust Ujitsuna from his region,
about 10:00 in the morning on February 6, but he was unable to do so, and with declining
soldiers attacked the castle in force, and they health, he closed his eyes for the last time at his
persevered–crowned with victory in the after- Hirai Castle in Kôzuke in April of 1525 (Hôjô-ki).
noon on the same day. It is recorded that as According to the Myôhôji-ki he died on March
many as 3,000 dead defenders laid within the 25, 1525.
walls (Hondoji kakochô). In addition to all the
Even though Norifusa was gone, the struggle
casualties, many were captured – the numbers
for Musashi was far from over, and not to forget,
of dead are quite large, and there might have
Tomooki was still in the race. On August 22, 1525,

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 a fierce battle occurred between Tomooki and enemy approached, they either fled or surren-
Ujitsuna at Shirakobara (Wakô city, Shirako), dered, and if the latter, they were given free
which is located southeast of Kawagoe. In this pass to leave the area. Later they received assis-
encounter Ujitsuna was wounded and his army tance from Ujitsuna to recapture the castle. In
defeated–the Hôjô army quickly retreated. It is September the same year Tomooki reappeared,
also noted that Ujitsuna’s daikan (magistrate), and this time supported by Uesugi Norihiro.
Ise Kurô, and 800 others were killed in the fight- They attacked and captured the castle of Ozawa
ing that day (Ishikawa Tadafusa todomegaki). A (Kanagawa prefecture, Kawasaki city), but
slightly different narration can be found in the again a bit unsure if they stayed longer within
Shinpen Musashi kuni fudokikô – according to Sagami or they retreated. Anyway, in November
this source the battle took place on August 23, the final campaign of 1526 occurred into Hôjô
and all members (male) of Kushima Tsunashige territory, and the enemy invaders pressed on
were killed in the fighting, along with 800 toward Tamanawa Castle, but at this castle the
others. A serious defeat, maybe not regarding successful campaign came to halt, and they
territorial holdings, but to the morale of the returned home. Overall, it had been a great year
Hôjô forces, and likewise a boost for the Uesugi for Tomooki, but in territorial gains, maybe not
forces. During the latter part of 1525 Tomooki so much. But he had successfully given Ujitsuna
had gained an upper hand on his enemy, and on a push back and showed he was capable of
entering 1526 Tomooki wanted to exploit this capturing castles and win battles. It had been a
positive drive, and he planned to invade Sagami small setback for Ujitsuna, but all of these cas-
province – the Hôjô homeland. tles lost this year would, within a short period,
The campaign of Tomooki was under way be recaptured.
in May and continued into June, and the first There followed a quiet period after this tur-
target seems to have been the castle of Warabi, bulent year and there were few if any confronta-
(present Saitama prefecture, Warabi city), locat- tions over the next two years. In January of 1530
ed east of Arakawa River. Warabi was a lowland things got back to normal – war. On January 6,
castle and today parts of a water filled moat and Tomooki invaded Sagami and again he aimed
adjacent earthwork of a rampart, located on the toward Ozawa and Setabara (present Tokyo,
south side of the Warabi Shrine, are the only Setagaya district). This campaign seems to have
two remaining traces of the castle. The Uesugi been a raid, Tomooki’s forces set fire to villages
forces captured the castle on June 7 (Zoku in the vicinity of Edo Castle, but retreated to
Honchô tsugan), and in the record Hondoji Kawagoe, most likely after they were completely
kakochô: satisfied with their burning and destruction.
“On the 7th, in Musashi at Warabi Castle, the Previously, in the chapter on the Imagawa, we
defenders belonging to Ise no Kami Ujitsuna touched upon the Invasion executed by Uesugi
(Hôjô Ujitsuna) fled, the castle was captured.” Tomooki in August of 1535 into Sagami province.
But what happened next with the invasion This invasion was a response to Ujitsuna’s inva-
army is a mystery, maybe they were satisfied sion into Kai province. When Ujitsuna received
with what they had accomplished and retreat- information on an invading army from Musashi,
ed? The castle holders on Warabi were the he ordered his men back to Odawara–this took
Shibukawa clan (Hôjô vassals), so when the place on August 24. Tomooki’s army rampaged

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 through the eastern parts of Sagami and
returned to Musashi on September 6. Ujitsuna
was infuriated by this action, and quickly
ordered his army to mobilize once more. This
time he mobilized forces from five provinces,
Sagami, Izu, Musashi, Shimôsa and Kazusa – not
all of these provinces were under his complete
control of course, but he mobilized from the
areas within these provinces where he had allies
and castles. On September 13, his army marched
toward Iruma River in Musashi province.
Adjacent to this river a fierce battle occurred
between Ujitsuna and Tomooki on September
15, and Ujitsuna won – Tomooki realized he was
beaten and fled back toward Kawagoe. The war
between Ujitsuna and Tomooki had certainly
turned into an obsession, maybe for them both,
but the heavens were not on Tomooki’s side, for
on April 27, 1537, Tomooki died at his Kawagoe
Castle. It is recorded in the Kaigen sôzuki that Hojo Ujiyasu, Wiki Commons
people in Sagami celebrated upon receiving use all his military and diplomatic skills to out-
news of Tomooki’s death. At last, his longtime maneuver this young lord and his military staff.
rival was gone and Ujitsuna could finally This was exactly what Ujitsuna did, he exerted
breathe a little, but now he realized that he was the presented opportunity as soon as possible.
closer to his goal than ever before. He should A few months later in July of 1537 he was ready.
use this opportunity, in lack of good leadership The Hôjô army marched northeast and attacked
within the Uesugi, to conquer all of the Kantô Kawagoe Castle. Tomosada was defeated and
region. Well, the success in such an enterprise fled toward Matsuyama Castle, located to the
could be thwarted by the successor to Tomooki, northwest. With this victory the Ôgigayatsu
but luck was on Ujitsuna’s side. The successor to Uesugi was out of the race for a while. The year
Tomooki was his first-born son, Tomosada (1525- after he achieved an even greater victory at the
1546), but he was only 12 years old at the time. battle of Kônodai in Shimôsa province, with the
So, it would be impossible for this young boy to Edo River defining the border between Musashi
lead a clan in war. The young heir had of course and Shimôsa. Kônodai is located on the eastern
a solid band of senior retainers and advisors, bank of the river. The fight was against Satomi
but a firm and single decisionmaker they did Yoshitaka (1512-1574) from Awa and Ashikaga
not. Often when such a situation occurred, too Yoshiaki (?-1538), second son of the Koga Kubô
many voices wanted to be heard. On this point Ashikaga Masauji. The province of Awa is the
Ujitsuna got an upper hand, he was supreme southernmost province on Bôsô peninsula.
and with years of experience within all matters With this victory Ujitsuna secured his control
of civil and military governing–he could now over the central part of Musashi and the area

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 southeast toward Shimôsa province. 1530 against the Uesugi in Musashi, and he was
Ujitsuna continued to oust anyone who tried fifteen-years old at the time. His first military
to oppose him within Musashi. But to be fair, campaign was directed toward Uesugi in
the battle at Kônodai was not an even matched Musashi and at Ozawa-hara (The Ozawa plain),
contest, far from it. It is noted that the Hôjô had near Tama River, the two armies faced each oth-
about 5,000 cavalry, and the Ashikaga-Satomi er. June, Tomooki had struck camp at Ozawa, but
side only 1,000. Looking at these numbers, there they were easily chased off the land by the Hôjô
is no wonder that it ended with a Hôjô victory. army–it was a rather non-bloody encounter.
Although it is possible to defeat an overwhelm- Ujiyasu spent almost all his time at his father’s
ing enemy force – there are only a few examples side during their military campaigns, and
during the Sengoku Jidai that this was achieved. as time went by, he received more and more
But one example which shows it was possible responsibility over military campaigns and
to defeat superior numbers is the battle of likewise he was tutored in administrative mat-
Okehazama in 1560. Although, it was not 3,000 ters. His father died in 1541, but already in 1538
against 25,000, but more like 3,000 against Ujiyasu was in charge of several administrative
5,000 at the actual battlefield–at Yoshimoto’s and military affairs – not all alone of course, for
field camp. in the shadow was Ujitsuna. He would advise
After the victory at Kawagoe Castle, there were on all important matters until he died, he tried
still enemies to face within the eastern prov- to teach his son all the wisdom accumulated.
inces, but when entering the 1540s, Ujitsuna’s A couple of months before he passed away,
health started to decline, and so in 1541 he hand- Ujitsuna wrote a long letter to his son contain-
ed the reins over to his first-born son, Ujiyasu. ing five precepts regarding administrative and
Ujitsuna’s health continued to decline and on moral standards he should abide by.
July 17, 1541, he passed away inside his Odawara
Castle. Ujitsuna was 54 years old at the time, and Uesugi descends from the North
he had lived a truly exciting life. In addition, he Throughout 1545 Ujiyasu was fully engaged
had continued on the path his father started, in military activities toward Imagawa, in the
and he had done a fantastic job. The territories eastern part of Suruga. The struggle was over
of the Hôjô had never been more extensive than the castle of Nagakubo, it was under siege by
in 1541, and now it was his son who would try to Yoshimoto, and Ujiyasu planned to send more
expand their territory further. Ujitsuna is bur- troops to support the defenders. Yoshimoto and
ied at the Sôunji temple at Yumoto, Kanagawa Uesugi Norimasa corresponded, and Norimasa
prefecture. would try and conceive a plan which would
On May 5 the year after, Ujitsuna’s second hamper Ujiyasu’s plans (Hôjô-ki).
son, Tamemasa (1520-1542) became sick and So, in the autumn of 1545, the leading lords
died – he was at the time castle commander at on the Kantô allied themselves against the
both Tamanawa and Kawagoe. After Tamemasa Hôjô. On Hirai Castle in Kôzuke, they held a war
passed away, Hôjô Tsunashige was promoted to counsel. Uesugi Norimasa (Yamanouchi line),
new commander over both castles. Uesugi Tomosada (Ôgigayatsu line), and Ôta
Hojo Ujiyasu was born in 1515 and was Sukemasa (1522-1591). At Hirai the Uesugi were
Ujitsunas first-born son. His first uijin was in busy planning how to capture Kawagoe Castle,

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 made his choice.
In September the Uesugi army set off from
Hirai and crossed the border to Musashi. The
forward divisions surrounded the castle and
a siege venture developed around Kawagoe.
Ujiyasu sent shinobi (spies) to scout and note
down the locations of the enemy campsites
(Kanhasshû kosenroku). The shinobi arrived
later back in Odawara and informed him
about the Uesugi’s lineup around Kawagoe.
Ujiyasu realizing that this was a dangerous
situation, and if he did not respond swiftly to
this threat, he could lose a crucial bastion in
the northern region of Musashi. Thankfully, the
enemy decided to take it slow, and instead of
an all-out attack, they prepared for a siege. The
siege dragged on and if Ujiyasu did not respond
soon, the castle would eventually fall. In the
beginning of 1546, he mobilized every soldier he
could, but without weakening his other borders
perceptibly, and marched out of Odawara with
about 8,000 men on March 25. Ujiyasu was on
the march once more, but this time with a little
Uesugi Kenshin, Wiki Commons
twist. He knew the enemy army was superior
which was held by Hôjô Tsunashige (1515-1587), in numbers, and in order to win against such
who is reported to have commanded about a huge army, he needed to be brilliantly clever
3,000 soldiers (Kanhasshû kosenroku) – prob- this time. He had a well-prepared plan, when
ably many low-ranking soldiers and farmers. the army neared the enemy camps around
Uesugi Norimasa and his allies set off from Kawagoe, during nightfall, Ujiyasu had given
Hirai on September 26 (Hôjô-ki). The Uesugi his men a few rules, and according to the Hôjô-
had also been in correspondence with the Koga ki; they should not use torches, no use of heave
Kubô, Ashikaga Haruuji, and after a lot of per- sashimono (large flags on their backs), no
suasion he finally decided to join and turned armor on their horses, and no talking among
up at Kawagoe with his 15,000 men (according themselves–silence was the most important fac-
to the Kanhasshû kosenroku; 20,000 horse) on tor in the last stages of Ujiyasu’s plan.
October 27, 1545. But it was with mixed feelings
The combined army around Kawagoe was not
he did so. Haruuji had strong bonds to the Hôjô.
eager to initiate an all-out attack, but instead
Haruuji was married to Ujiyasu’s younger sister,
wanted to starve the defenders out, and for
and he could now risk all these years’ of diplo-
many months they had tried to do just that.
matic work be destroyed in a single battle – he
Ashikaga Haruuji had cut off the main supply
had thought about it for a while, but he had
route into Kawagoe. This time-consuming siege

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 gave Ujiyasu just the time he needed to pre- almost the same proposal, but like Haruuji he
pare, but he was completely aware of the slight too declined. It was now that Ujiyasu decided to
possibility of a victory in a traditional battle implement his devious plan.
– head-to-head against approx. 80,000 enemy On the night of April 20, Ujiyasu moved his
samurai (cavalry) (Hôjô-ki) (this number of sol- army further on, but before they came too
diers is surely exaggerated–ten times as many as close to the enemy campsites, he had divided
Ujiyasu). According to the Kanhasshû kosenroku his army into four divisions (Kanhasshû kosen-
the Uesugi side drafted soldiers from northern roku). The southern enemy camp was led by
Musashi, Kôzuke, Kazusa, Shimôsa, Hitachi and Uesugi Norimasa, located at Sunakubo, and
Shimotsuke, in all 65,000 horse (cavalry troops, this would be Ujiyasu’s first target. During the
but this number is not believable – this is hugely night his men moved out and when in running
exaggerated). Ujiyasu was probably quite ner- distance his first division attacked the enemy
vous about the whole situation, he had soldiers camp. Total confusion ensued and the enemy
spread out along the western border, in Izu, soldiers fled in all directions. After breaking
and on the Miura peninsula. This is why he now through the southern enemy camp, the second
came up with this daring plan. and third divisions moved toward the north-
Norimasa, on the other hand, was inside his west where Uesugi Tomosada had his camp,
camp, and probably confident that Ujitsuna had near Imanari. Most likely unaware of what was
no chance if he would challenge this huge army, going on in the other camp, soldiers were still
and the siege had gone on for almost six months sleeping or resting when the enemy divisions
already. This haughty attitude made him behave stormed straight into their campsite, and total
accordingly, threating the whole campaign as a confusion ensued. Tomosada was unable or
picnic – and not at all expecting the approach- didn’t want to run, so he died in the ensuing
ing enemy. fighting within his campsite. Hôjô Tsunashige
Ujiyasu led his army into Musashi and struck inside Kawagoe was inspired and ordered his
camp at Mitsugi (used as the main camp of the men to attack toward Haruuji’s camp to the east
Hôjô back in 1537). Approx. one kilometer to the of the castle near Isanuma. Like the two previ-
northeast lay Sunakubo and this was approx. ous campsites this one collapsed just as quickly.
four kilometers south of Kawagoe, and it was in Prior to this night attack, it would be reasonable
this area that the southeastern enemy campsites to think that Tsunashige was in correspondence
were located. with Ujiyasu on the outside and they tried to
When in camp, Ujiyasu is said to have tried coordinate their efforts, or a messenger, during
to correspond with his brother-in-law, Haruuji, the initial attack, went to the castle and urged
and in the Hôjô-ki the following is recorded: Tsunashige to attack toward Haruuji’s camp. The
fourth camp under Ôta Sukemasa, located to
“On the siege of Kawagoe, please save the
the north of Kawagoe, is not mentioned in any
soldiers inside from starving to death. If you
sources – therefore it is impossible to say what
(Haruuji) do help them, the castle and the adja-
happened to him. All we know is that he sur-
cent land will be handed over to you.”
vived the siege and battle. Uesugi Norimasa run
It is noted that Haruuji declined the proposal,
back to Hirai Castle in Kôzuke, while Haruuji
and it is also mentioned that Norimasa received
made it back to Koga.

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 The battle at Kawagoe and the stories are by this move he would be a potential heir to the
mainly from Hôjô related sources. The enemy position as Kantô kanrei – which he received in
numbers are most likely hugely exaggerated, 1561. From now on Kenshin would be an ardent
as mentioned before; enemy numbers inflated, competitor to Ujiyasu’s hegemony in Musashi.
while own numbers trimmed. There are only a Kenshin would certainly leave his marks on the
few contemporary letters relating to this battle Kantô with his fourteen campaigns into this
in existence, and this is also a factor which region. Although, during the 1550s he would
makes the whole campaign and battle a bit of be more focused on Shinano province than
a problem regarding its credibility – as to the Kôzuke, and this was due to the aggressive
stories conveyed in the Edo period sources. policy and maneuvering of Takeda Shingen
Some names and dates are wrong in these sourc- from Kai province. Several of the clans on the
es and all of them convey a slightly different Kawanakajima plain in Shinano fled to Kenshin
story. It might be that one source, the first one in Echigo during the early years of the 1550s,
published, has been the primary source for the and now they relied on Kenshin to help them
latter ones–and in the latter ones more details retrieve their land in Shinano.
added. The story itself has been even further In 1554 Ujiyasu, Shingen and Yoshimoto, as
elaborated by the later authors, but not based mentioned before, formed an alliance which
on historical evidence – this is a problem in all would profit all three. Making it possible for
“ancient and old” historical writings! each of them to focus on certain regions with-
The result of this great victory was even more out worrying about a second front. For both
phenomenal, Ujiyasu got the upper hand on Ujiyasu and Shingen, Uesugi Kenshin would be
all his rivals, and he could now dictate the a major adversary, but their alliance would truly
future developments in this region. Matsuyama hamper Kenshin’s prospects toward the Kantô
Castle was his and the lord on Takiyama, Ôishi region. Even though Kenshin had some victories
Sadahisa, and the lord on Tenjinyama Castle, and managed to capture some castle from time
Fujita Kunifusa, both joined Ujiyasu. to time, especially in the eastern part of Kôzuke.
For the next seven years there seem to have But the provinces of Kôzuke and Musashi
been a rather quiet period in Musashi. Both the remained for the most part under Takeda and
Uesugi families and the Kubô were reluctant to Hôjô control.
challenge Ujiyasu after their crushing defeat at Entering the year 1559, Ujiyasu’s health was
Kawagoe. On entering the year 1553, a new player declining. He decided to retire from the lime-
entered the Kantô, Nagao Kagetora (1530-1578). light, and shaved his head, became a monk, and
This move from (Nagao Kagetora) Kenshin was took the Buddhist name of Banshôken. This took
due to Ujiyasu’s attack on the kanrei Uesugi place in the final days of June 1559 (Kanhasshû
Norimasa the year before, and this was his kosenroku), but according to another source it
first mark onto the northern part of the Kantô, happened in December of 1559. The leadership
he had crossed over Mikuni Pass and entered was handed over to his first-born son, Ujimasa.
Kôzuke province in October of 1552. But now it But it is noted that Ujiyasu continued until his
was a much grander military campaign he ven- death in 1571, to advice, and one could state,
tured on. In order to assist Norimasa, Kenshin still pulled the strings and had the final word
demanded to be adopted into the Uesugi clan, on many military and administrative matters.

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 It is mentioned that it was Ujiyasu who advised this region, and this show of force would surely
his son to switch alliance partner from Kenshin solidify this notion.
to Shingen, and he did so in December of 1571 At Kawagoe the Hôjô forces prepared to
(source; collection of documents of the Yura defend to the last, but this obstacle was simply
clan). Several letters with Ujiyasu’s signature bypassed. Late in March the army finally arrived
from the 1560s are evidence of him being still at the outskirts of Odawara. Kenshin struck
active, so the notion of him retiring completely camp adjacent to Mount Kôraiji (also known as
is a huge exaggeration – it might be more of a Komayama and Kôrajiyama, 168 meters above
collaborating relationship between father and sea level). The mountain is located west of
son dating back to 1559. Hiratsuka city, at Ôiso town, on the coast. This
Uesugi Kenshin stayed over from 1560 to 1561 was Kenshin’s main camp–roughly 10 kilome-
at Mayabashi Castle in Kôzuke. He was at war ters east of Odawara.
with the Hôjô and planned a massive push It is noted that Kenshin ordered his men to
toward their home territory. But his primary attack the villages around Odawara on March
aim was the Tsurugaoka Hachiman temple 12, and lay siege to the castle the following day.
in Kamakura – where he would officially be At one point the Uesugi forces made it almost
appointed Kantô Kanrei. Now, Kamakura lay up to the castle’s Hasuike Gate, but they hastily
fairly close to the Hôjô home base of Odawara, retreated. But there is conflicting information
and this would be “two birds with one stone”. on this in various sources. Ujiyasu had decided
Kenshin marched toward Matsuyama Castle to stay inside and take on a siege if necessary.
and arrived there in late February. On February Kenshin kept his enemy at bay, and this was
27, he was also in contact with the Tsuruga probably what he initially wanted, while he
Hachimangû in Kamakura–he sent a letter of himself entered Tsuruoka Hachimangû in
plead to the temple. In the letter he prays for Kamakura on March 16. Here he was officially
victory in the coming campaign against the instated to Kantô Kanrei and heir to the Uesugi
Hôjô in Odawara. In the beginning of March, territories – Uesugi Norimasa presided the
the remaining troops from the eastern part of event. The siege lasted about six weeks, some
the Kantô arrived at his camp, this was probably say twelve weeks, but in the end Kenshin’s army
around Matsuyama in Musashi, and he was now and his allies were tired, and Uesugi ordered
ready to move south toward Odawara. The num- his men to retreat. It is also noted in the Hôjô-ki
ber of soldiers Kenshin managed to mobilize for that Ujiyasu used shinobi to harass the enemy
this campaign is in fact staggering – according campsites – setting fire to their supplies and
to the sources he led a total of 113,000 (cavalry) so on. This form of harassing tactics forced the
(Kanhasshû kosenroku), and according to the soldiers on the outside to be on high alert all
Hôjô-ki: 96,000 (cavalry). Due to the locality the time, and they became just as exhausted as
of Odawara as to Kamakura the Hôjô would those inside the walls.
surely not let him pass untouched through Kenshin was instated as Kanrei, but this pro-
their land, and this is the primary reason as motion had no actual effect on the situation
to why Kenshin mobilized such a huge army. on the Kantô – it was almost a hollow title.
In addition, it was also to make his promotion Clans continued to fight among themselves,
to Kanrei as legitimate as possible throughout and all the previous mentioned clans were still

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 Kawanakajima 1553-1564, Wiki Commons

around–their ambitions had not diminished alliances throughout the Kantô region. The
with this announcement of a new Kanrei. After Takeda was also involved in this wargaming, but
this show of force from Kenshin, evidence of for the most part they fought in Kôzuke, against
renewed Hôjô activities can be found in let- Uesugi interests, but they also ventured into
ters from November 27, 1561. Ujimasa hands northern Musashi from time to time. For short-
over letters to five named retainers for their er or longer periods of time smaller clans joined
excellent performance in battle against Uesugi one side or the other, and this was one way a
forces at Namanoyama, located in Kodama smaller clan could survive during these hellish
town, Saitama prefecture. The outcome of the times. But at the end of the 1560s things would
battle ended with a Hôjô victory, and the five change – an old alliance treaty would be broken.
men received rewards. It is recorded that the Hojo Ujimasa was much like his father,
loosing Uesugi forces were chased back north formed in the same mold, a true
toward Tone River (Tonegawa). So, clearly child of war. From early days he
this announcement of a new Kanrei had no was thought in all the skills a
real impact on the clans on the Kantô, not on samurai child needed to persevere LEARN
the Hôjô – everything was back to “normal”. during the 16th century. Even MORE
Kenshin initiated several campaigns into this though prepared to be the best,
region, maybe he seriously tried to conquer, it was often through failing and stumbling
at least Kôzuke province, but as soon as he was one needed to quickly harvest learnings and
forced to return home, several of those “sub- move forward —everything could change the
dued” switched side again, and this kind of war- next day. Ujimasa was in a sense lucky when his
gaming continued throughout the 1560s. Hôjô father retired but remained a reliable adviser for
was during this decade in war with, primary, more than ten years. This gave Ujimasa an edge,
Kenshin from Echigo and the Satomi clan from and he was just as skilled as his father had been
Awa. These three tried again and again to con- in both administrative and military matters.
quer castles, subdue smaller clans, and create But not to forget, Ujimasa had many brothers to

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 assist him, and they too were excellent warriors. from Takeda Shingen, who was heavily engaged
In 1561, he and his father faced a real threat in Kôzuke and Shinano. In the beginning of 1562
when Kenshin showed up on their doorstep. But Kenshin had planned a campaign towards Sano.
was it a real attempt to capture Odawara and Located in the east part of Kôzuke just over the
destroy the Hôjô? It seems that Kenshin was border in Shimotsuke, but due to Shingen’s
more interested in making sure that the Hôjô early invasion into the western part of Kôzuke,
would stay inside their castle, and other castles, Kenshin’s plan had to be implemented much
while he himself went to Kamakura to be instat- sooner. Instead of going later in the spring he
ed as Kanrei. No sensible commander would forced his army toward Kôzuke on February 5,
march out of a castle to confront this massive with still snow in the mountains. His forces met
army of a 100,000, and this is what Kenshin with Shingen’s at Annaka, in the eastern part of
realized. Kôzuke. It seems Shingen did not expect to run
Ujimasa would rely on his brothers in the into Uesugi forces this early in the year, and he
decades to come. On many occasions they led decided it was safer to return. These activities
their own forces in battle, a skirmish or a siege. between the Takeda and Uesugi in Kôzuke were
Using his brothers effectively was one of his initially not something the Hôjô willingly ven-
skills and giving them strategically important tured into. Instead, they focused on Musashi
castles, and the responsibility therein, and on because a few castles within this province were
many occasions, they succeeded beyond their still under Uesugi management. The relation-
older brother’s expectations. ship between Shingen and Ujiyasu/Ujimasa was
In a transcription of a letter dated March still based on a treaty dating back to 1554, the
2, 1562, one can find the signature of Ujiyasu, triumvirate, and this peace and alliance treaty
and this clearly shows he was still engaged in made it easier for them all to call upon help
administrative and military related affairs. The when needed. The third party in this agreement
letter is a seisatsu (signboard letter), and it is were the Imagawa in Suruga, but its clan leader,
thought to have been placed in Adachi district – Ujizane, was just a shadow of his father when
it might be related to Kônosu village. This might it came to military skills and ambitions, so
be strong evidence of Hôjô activities in this area according to available sources he stayed for the
in the beginning of 1562, probably occurred most part within his own domains, and never
after Kenshin had returned to Echigo. The pre- ventured into any other hostile nor friendly
vious year Kenshin had clashed with Shingen territories.
at Kawanakajima, and it had been an extraordi- In the autumn of 1562, Ujimasa and Shingen
nary bloody battle. He was not keen on a major formed a cooperation against Uesugi bastions
fight like this so soon after last year’s damage. in the northwestern region of Musashi. Ujimasa
So instead, he ventured out on a short campaign aimed for Matsuyama Castle, in Hiki district,
onto the Kantô region while the other two were which had been a thorn in the side of the Hôjô
busy on other fronts, but he had to return due for a long time, they had tried several times
to hostile activities west of Echigo–Ikkô Ikki in to take it, and sometimes successfully but lost
Etchû caused constant troubles on the border. it again soon after their initial victory. In the
The reason why they constantly challenged historical sources it is at least seven battles/
Kenshin, was due to the direct encouragement attacks recorded on Matsuyama Castle, and the

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 one which commenced in December of 1562, they were between twenty to thirty thousand
was a cooperation between two of the finest men in total is realistic. The attack commenced
commanders in this region of Japan, though on December 11 (Hôjô-ki), but Matsuyama was a
against an equally skilled commander as them- formidable fortress, it was located on a relative-
selves. Kenshin was not in person commander ly small mountain, but with strong defenses and
of the castle, it was held by Uesugi Norikatsu steep slopes, and with the Ichino River forming
(of the Ôgigayatsu line). It is said that he had a natural moat flowing from the northwestern
joined Kenshin several years earlier, but it is to the southwestern side, covering almost two
more likely that he served Ôta Sukemasa, as he sides of the castle, – it would not be easy to cap-
promoted him to commander over Matsuyama ture. But a castle is only as strong as its defend-
several years earlier. Anyway, it was now up to ers’ willingness to defend. Luckily for Kenshin,
Norikatsu to withstand the onslaught which the commander was a valiant warrior, and he
would surely come. It is also mentioned that Ôta would defend as long as he was capable – but of
Sukemasa was pledging Kenshin to aid against course he was hoping for reinforcements from
the Hôjô invasion, so there were several clan Kenshin when information on the enemy camps
leaders who hoped Kenshin would be able to outside his castle would reach Echigo. The sur-
help. rounding area of Matsuyama was destroyed and
Why this activity in November? This is quite set on fire (Hôjô-ki)–the castle became an iso-
easy to answer – it was winter and hopefully lated place. But not to worry, Norikatsu seemed
snowclad mountain passes would hinder to be prepared for this action by the Hôjô, he
Kenshin from marching onto the Kantô region. had filled up with supplies and water in plenty
This was what the two commanders hope for, (Hôjô-ki) – a siege would be fine, until relief
and with that in mind, it was perfect timing. came.
Kenshin had foreseen something like this, and Shingen engaged his sappers, actually miners
he was not without countermeasures. He had from the gold mines in Kai and Shinano, but
contacted the Satomi in Awa and some kind they had to retreat due to heavy teppô fire from
of an alliance was formed. If Matsuyama was the defenders. It is noted in the Hôjô-ki that tep-
attacked by the Hôjô, the Satomi would come to pô was used by the defenders, and many attack-
the rescue. The unknown problem for Kenshin ing soldiers were killed. So, the initial attempt
and the Satomi was that it was not only the Hôjô to dig out the walls and towers failed. According
army preparing for war, but it was also an equal- to the Hôjô-ki, also the Hôjô employed sappers,
ly large army from Kai. In the source Hôjô-ki it but before they started digging, they cut down
is noted: nearby bamboo and bundled it together, they
“If the attack from Odawara (Hôjô army) made thick shields, which were then placed
would come”. between the sappers and the defensive para-
In such a case, could the Satomi make it in pets of the castle. This wall made it possible for
time when the attack began. In the Kanhasshû the sapper units to continue their work, even
kosenroku it is mentioned that the combined though while being shot at, but now they were
forces of the Hôjô and Takeda comprised of protected by the shield wall–they continued
56,000 horse (samurai), this is a huge exaggera- digging into the ramparts. This strategy was
tion. No exact numbers in any sources, but that successful, for in the same source it is noted that

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 two towers collapsed due to the sappers’ efforts. While Shingen’s army was on its way toward
The Takeda mining units would surely use Suruga, Ujimasa was probably almost at the
the same strategy of shields, they had done same time informed of Shingen’s invasion.
this kind of mining work for decades. The siege He responded at once, and on January 5, 1569,
continued and the accumulated resources dwin- Ujimasa led a force of approx. 45,000 men (Hôjô-
dled away, Norikatsu was forced to realize it was ki) to Mishima, on the border between Sagami,
over – his hope of relief had by now evaporated. Suruga, and Izu to the south (it is noted in the
He surrendered the castle on February 4, 1563. Hôjô-ki that both Ujimasa and Ujiyasu, both
He was not harmed, instead he joined the Hôjô, father and son, set out from Odawara). Ujimasa
and was granted a fief worth 300 kanmon. It is marched further west, all the way up to Satta
noted that Kenshin scolded Ôta for placing that Pass, and here on January 18, he struck camp,
coward Norikatsu on Matsuyama. A bit unfair while the Takeda army roamed around Sunpu
to call him a coward–he had defended for three further west. At the same time as Ujimasa
months, to be true–he had done a respectful moved toward Satta, he also sent a maritime
and valiant attempt to defend until relief would unit consisting of 300 ships (Hôjô-ki) from
come – which it did not. Shimoda, located on the southernmost point
From 1563 to 1568, the wars on the Kantô con- of the Izu peninsula, toward Kakegawa – the
tinued, between the already mentioned partici- intention was to either aid Ujizane at Kakegawa
pants. There would not be a major change until or attack the Takeda from the west – the Takeda
1568, then the whole established order would be had no maritime experience nor any ships
rearranged. at the time so they were unable to challenge
any maritime movements from the Hôjô, but
when they made landfall the Takeda would
The unification of Suruga
be on their guard. Shingen was informed of
In December of 1568, Shingen invaded Suruga
Ujimasa’s moves and marched out to confront
province. At the same time Tokugawa Ieyasu
him, but soon halted the advance. Ujimasa had
invaded Tôtômi province, located to the west
been quick to react, and this gave him now the
of Suruga. Imagawa Ujizane was leader of the
high-ground–Satta Pass lay on a long mountain
clan and ruled over both provinces when the
ridge, going north to south and ending steep-
invasion came. The old alliance treaty between
ly into the ocean, forming a natural border
Imagawa, Takeda and Hôjô was annulled. The
between the Sunpu region and the eastern part
Hôjô were still loyal to their alliance partner
of Suruga, called the Suntô region – so with this
and decided to confront the Takeda invasion –
in mind, it was an important location to con-
an intermarriage bond between the three exist-
trol. Why did the Takeda abandon Satta? They
ed, for example Ujiyasu’s daughter was married
probably had a small force to guard this loca-
to Imagawa Ujizane, but now everything was
tion, but when the huge army of the Hôjô came
turned upside down. Ujimasa sent his wife back
marching, they were unable to resist – so they
to Kai province, she was Shingen’s daughter.
fled. Shingen’s supply road and way of retreat
Shingen commenced with his campaign on
was now threatened with this occupation. But
December 6, and already on December 13, his
close to Satta, on the west side, there was a
army had occupied Sunpu manor.
small mountain path leading up toward the Kai
Ujizane fled to Kakegawa Castle in Tôtômi.

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 border, but this route could be seriously vulner- This confrontation between the Takeda and
able to enemy attacks. The best option would be Hôjô had ended without any serious military
to regain control of this Pass as soon as possible. clash, but now the Takeda and Hôjô were at
But this was easier said than done, Hôjô held the war, and strategic locations and castles became
high-ground, and they had superior numbers of priority number one, for them both. The eastern
men. part of Suruga seems to have been held by the
Shingen had about 18,000, and if these num- Hôjô after April of 1569, but Shingen was in no
bers on the Hôjô are to be believed, then the way finished with Suruga nor the Hôjô’s inter-
odds disfavored Shingen completely. Shingen, ference – he was infuriated with their interfer-
not knowing what to do, the whole situation ing. Verifiable evidence for this notion came in
materialized into a stalemate, not until April of October of 1569, when Shingen marched toward
1569 was this problem resolved. Previous deals Odawara Castle and for a few days besieged
untied the stalemate between the two, Kenshin their mighty fortress. Except for some burning
had a deal with Ujizane. Kenshin would invade and destruction in the neighboring area of the
into Shinano if Suruga was invaded, and like- Castle, there was not much actual fighting, but
wise Shingen had a deal with the Satake and when Shingen ordered his army to return to Kai
Mogi clans, east of Hôjô’s territories, and they on October 4, then things were set in motion.
would invade from the east. Both contestants Ujimasa and Ujiyasu decided to give a little
had to dispatch soldiers to other fronts due to payback. The reason why Shingen gave up after
new threats, and so in April they both returned only a few days, is said to due to his fear of
to their home bases. being cut off and run out of supplies. The Hôjô

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 bastions of Hachigata and Takiyama were both on, Shingen sent Yamagata Masakage and
commanded by Ujimasa’s brothers, and if they Obata Shigesada west of Mimase to Shida Pass.
decided to fall upon the Takeda from behind, Obata left Yamagata and made a slight detour
then Shingen would be in a desperate situation. toward the north toward Tsukui Castle. His role
The Hôjô might have had plans ready for such was to suppress the commander on Tsukui to
an event, if an enemy should come too close, like remain immobile. All of this was timed well,
Kenshin in 1561, and like they did back then they and Shingen turned slightly to the east and
decided to stay inside. They would rather take moved in on the enemy forces from this flank. A
on a long siege and watch Shingen’s army deteri- large portion of Yamagata’s forces would, while
orate and crumble against their walls. It seems on their march around the enemy at Mimase,
like Shingen got really nervous about this sit- turn around and fall upon the enemy from the
uation. He had bypassed several enemy castles side and rear. It would be an almost perfect
along the way south toward Odawara, and they three-pronged attack, if the Hôjô performed
possessed a real threat if they decided to act. to Shingen’s expectations, and they did. This
Now Shingen’s goal was to quickly march his tactical move took the Hôjô forces by complete
army back home. He planned to lead them over surprise. Their scouts and spies must have failed
the Mimase Pass, which was located close to the horribly on this occasion, and the result was one
Kai border. Ujimasa and Ujiyasu watched from of the more humiliating defeats for the Hôjô
the towers and as soon as the enemy camps were side against Shingen. Shingen had advanced
down, he sent messengers to the two command- quickly, and the battle had taken place in the
ers (Hôjô Ujinori and Ujiteru) on Takiyama and morning of October 6. Ujimasa did not arrive
Hachigata. They were to bring their forces as in time to take part, and when he finally did,
swift as possible to Mimase and lay in ambush. all he could do was to order his men to aid in
These two castles lay some kilometers west and tending the wounded and bury the dead. In
northwest of Mimase, but they could reach the a letter Shingen wrote to a priest in Suwa on
spot quite quickly. October 16, it reads that the Hôjô side lost 2,000
At the same time Ujimasa would pursue the dead at Mimase-Saka (Saka = hill). The actual
enemy at a distance, but when they closed in on battleground is located at the entrance to the
the enemy at Mimase, they would launch a two pass, and lays on a quite wide and sloping area,
pronged-attack – this was roughly the intended going all away up to where the road through the
plan. Shingen was no amateur, he knew this was pass begins. There were also casualties on the
enemy territory and he had scouts and spies in Takeda side too – one of the notable ones was
front and sides of his marching army, and when a commander by the name of Asari Nobutane
they closed in on the Mimase region – then who was killed by a teppô bullet. He had taken
suddenly scouts came back with reports of ene- part in the detachment which had continued
my troops spotted at Mimase. Shingen talked toward Mimase and walked into the so-called
with his senior commanders, and he decided “surprising” ambush. They did march into a
to send according to the original plan Mino no shower of arrows and bullets, so of course they
Kami, Takeda Katsuyori, Asari Uma-no-Suke, suffered some casualties, but this was a cost
and the supply-train. While they continued on Shingen seemed to be ok with as long as his ini-
their march, like nothing special was going tial plan worked. A lot of stories on this battle,

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 but the best evidence for it taking place and the A year went by, when in the autumn of 1570
result, is credited to the letter Shingen wrote the two lords stood face to face at Mishima in
on October 16 – contemporary letters from the Suruga. Rumors that Shingen had marched out
period are invaluable sources on verifying what and aimed for Nirayama Castle (Hôjô castle) in
chronicles written during the early Edo period Izu reached the Hôjô in Odawara. This infor-
(1600s) are conveying. Some details will always mation forced Ujimasa to march out in front
be a controversy within these later sources, of an army of 38,000. Shingen did not turn up
but regarding the main events the gist often toward Izu, at least not at Nirayama. Ujimasa
remains reliable. then turned north and spread out his forces in
Shingen’s victory at Mimase, boosted his and around Mishima, and in the slopes of the
hopes of putting an end to the Hôjô’s involve- Hakone Mountain east of Mishima. Creating a
ment in Suruga. He decided to use the wave of wall of military camps in case Shingen’s van-
success and challenge the Hôjô and oust them guard forces would show up. The rumors were
from the eastern part of Suruga once and for true, Shingen was on the move, and his army
all. According to the Hôjô-ki, several castles in was actually out on a mission of plunder – to
the eastern part of Suruga had been drained of cut down rice fields and steal the crop, it was
soldiers due to Shingen’s attack on Odawara. harvesting season in this part of the country
Shingen was informed of this lack of enemy now. He led his army toward the east and while
soldiers and decided to invade. The castles of moving steadily east they could observe enemy
Ômiya and Zentokuji were among those with banners in the distance. Shingen ordered his
only a few defenders inside. In a swift campaign two generals, Oyamada Nobushige and Baba
Shingen managed to take control over several Mino no Kami to move forward against the
fortifications within the eastern part of Suruga, enemy positions. After some maneuvering, they
and it was topped by the capture of Kanbara met with enemy hatamoto units, and several
Castle on December 6, 1569. According to the heads were taken.
Hôjô-ki, during Shingen’s campaign in Ômiya, This encounter would be one of the last major
and southward, his army burnt and destroyed confrontation between Shingen and Ujimasa,
all over, then they crossed Fuji River and arrived soon thereafter the two joined forces, and in a
at Iwabitsu in Ihara district, which they also co-operation turned toward Tokugawa Ieyasu.
burnt down. So, according to this source there To call it a co-operation is perhaps an exagger-
was a massive destruction by the Takeda army. ation, but when Shingen faced Tokugawa in
This narrative cannot be found in the Kôyô battle, Ujimasa sent a supportive contingent,
gunkan. In this source the campaign is well for example at the battle of Mikatagahara in
described, but not much disorderly or destruc- December of 1572.
tive behavior is recorded. In the Kôyô gunkan During the 1570s, the Hôjô would concen-
the chapter opens up with worries regarding trate their efforts toward the east and north-
the water level in the rivers of Suruga. Shingen east. Mainly fighting against Kenshin in the
sends out scouts to investigate and on their northern parts of Musashi and within Kôzuke
return, he decides to launch his campaign. province. The game was to capture castles in
Shingen succeeded with his plan and the Hôjô short but aggressive campaigns, trying to use
were forced back to the Suruga-Sagami border. the weather to their favor. Snow-clad mountain

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 passes between Kôzuke and Echigo forced the ruler of Suruga and Tôtômi provinces. One
Kenshin to a conduct a seasonal campaign every of the major clans that are under their banner is
year. The Hôjô knew this and tried to maximize the Okazaki Matsudaira clan. There are several
their gains out of the situation. branches of Matsudaira, in fact fourteen in all,
and they are all at this moment in time under
The Unification of Mikawa Imagawa influence and leadership. Not by a
The province of Mikawa flows like a great cape strong sense of loyalty, but rather forced into a
out and down from the mountainous north, vassal/master bond after the Imagawa invasions
mainly Shinano province, and all the way down during the last decades. Yoshimoto was an
to the Bay of Mikawa. Large flat areas with a aggressive and eager conqueror, like his father
few long and wide valleys, carved out from the had been, but this constant victorious streak
mountains through the ages. The province has can often lead to an abrupt downfall, and in
huge areas ideal for various agriculture and of the province of Owari he would soon meet his
course rice-fields. The Mikawa province itself match.
borders to the provinces of Owari in the west
On the evening of the 19th of Mai 1560,
(the Oda clan), Mino in the northwest (the Saitô
Yoshimoto met his end at the battle of
clan), Shinano to the northeast (the Takeda
Okehazama in Owari province. One of his vas-
clan), and Tôtômi in the east (the Imagawa clan).
sals in this battle was a young samurai under
There are several rivers within the province
the name of Matsudaira Motoyasu – later better
forming natural borders and supplies the area
known to all as Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542-1616).
with the necessary water for all life and vege-
Ieyasu was only 18 years old at this time in histo-
tation to thrive. The main river in the west is
ry, but even though without many years on his
called Sakai, and this river forms the borderline
back he would surely show a great talent for mil-
between the Mikawa and Owari provinces. In
itary strategy and the arts of war. In the battle
the east there is no natural river that forms the
at Okehazama it was Oda Nobunaga (1534.1582),
border, instead it is a small mountain range
who triumphed and once and for all had ham-
running all the way from Shinano province in
pered the Imagawa clan’s ambitions of expan-
the north down toward the coast, and it bends
sion further west, or in any other direction for
around the westside of Lake Hamana before it
that matter. The heir to the house of Imagawa
ends up in the Bay of Mikawa. Located in the
was Yoshimoto’s son, Ujizane (1538-1614), only 22
middle of the eastern part of Mikawa there are
years old when his father was killed. He was now
two rivers, the Yahagi and Sugou, where the
left with the managing of three provinces – all
main river is the Yahagi, while the other is a
in danger of falling into military chaos. It would
tributary river. At almost the exact point where
be imperative for him to safeguard and protect
the two rivers join, the castle of Okazaki is locat-
his domains before the grip that the Imagawa
ed on a small plateau. The castle was built by
had on the provinces would fade.
Saigô Tsuguyori in around 1455, but during the
One of the many clans that wanted to break
turn of the century it was attacked and taken
away from the master/vassal relationship with
over by the Matsudaira clan.
the Imagawa was the Matsudaira clan, and it
April 1560, the main part of Mikawa is under
came in the shape of Ieyasu – who ruled the
the control of Imagawa Yoshimoto (1519-1560),
Okazaki Matsudaira clan. Actually, he took over

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 the clan already in 1549 when his father was
murdered by a retainer, but at that time Ieyasu
was just a young boy and a hostage with the
Imagawa at their fortified mansion in Sunpu.
During the years under the Imagawa the young
boy would receive a more unrestrained role and
instead of being a hostage himself, he would
now place other family members there to make
his master content.
After the defeat at Okehazama on the 19th of
May, Ieyasu held up at Ôdaka fortress, about
four kilometers from where Yoshimoto was
killed, but as soon as the information reached
him on his master’s demise, he set off at once for
his home province.
On the 20th he reached Daijûji temple in
Kamoda, located to the north of Okazaki Castle.
Here Ieyasu decided to wait out the Imagawa
soldiers that were stationed there. At the time of
his father’s death, in 1549, the castle of Okazaki Tokugawa Ieyasu, Wiki Commons

came more or less under direct Imagawa con- The reason for this was that in Sunpu his family
trol, and it seems that almost on a permanent were held hostage, and if Ieyasu was to publicly
basis it was a base for Imagawa soldiers on duty break with the Imagawa, his family members
in Mikawa. So, when the news of their lord’s held in Sunpu would certainly be put to death.
death reached the garrison at Okazaki, they set Ieyasu and the Matsudaira clans were not the
out at once for their own territories. This was only ones that wanted their freedom back,
exactly what Ieyasu had waited for, and when many large and small families wanted to exploit
the coast was clear he set out for Okazaki and on this moment, but Imagawa Ujizane would not
May 23, he was back at his castle. let his father’s winnings dwindle away that easy.
Now it was important for him to consoli- Ieyasu was now at his Okazaki Castle and soon
date his position and make sure that all of the after the battle of Okehazama he continued to
Matsudaira clans would be united in the com- attack fortresses and castles that belonged to
ing months and years in Mikawa. There would the Oda clan of Owari. Mainly castles along the
certainly be a period now where the provinces border between the two provinces, the Sakai
of Mikawa, Tôtômi and Suruga might fall into River, were targeted. But it seems that during
military chaos and subsequently social unrest. this time he had, in the back of his mind, other
Ieyasu seemed to have waited for such an oppor- goals and ambitions for the clan’s future, and
tunity like this, for his innermost desire seems quite soon his targets shifted to the east. Ieyasu
to have been for a long time, to break away wanted to expel the Imagawa and unite Mikawa
from the Imagawa claws. But in order to do this under his banner – a war with his patronage
successfully he would need to be quite clever. family was at hand.

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 Ujizane found himself in a right-out difficult it would most likely intensify Ieyasu determi-
situation, he had two alternatives, he could give nation to break away from Imagawa, and Ieyasu
up Mikawa and concentrate on keeping Tôtômi would certainly seek revenge if his family mem-
and Suruga, or he could put up a fight for his bers were put to the sword. This was probably
father’s holdings. Ujizane decided for the latter. what Ujizane also realized and believed there
Evidence for this policy can be found in several was still a chance for a reconciliation between
letters issued by Ujizane throughout the 1560s the two clans.
to various families in Mikawa and the border But Ieyasu had no intentions of making peace
areas of Tôtômi province. These letters of rec- with the Imagawa as long as they remained
ognition on military exploits have great value within Mikawa – The letter sent by Yoshiteru
for the supposed policy that Ujizane wanted to had no effect on the two combatants, and the
fight for the continuing possessions of Mikawa. war continued. At the same time as Ieyasu made
At the same time as the letters contains recogni- war with the Imagawa, he also waged war with
tion of bravery, they also refer to battles within the Oda clan to the west. But it is now that desti-
the province during this period, and thereby ny comes into play, as far as Ieyasu goes. Mizuno
gives us solid evidence for the assumption Nobumoto (?-1575) was an older brother to
above. Ieyasu’s mother, thereby making him an uncle
Soon after the battle at Okehazama Ieyasu of Ieyasu. Mizuno, lord of Kariya Castle located
wanted to end the lord/vassal relationship with at the border between Mikawa and Owari, had
the Imagawa, and evidence for such a hasty exit broken away from the Imagawa several years
can be found in a letter addressed to Imagawa ago, joining the Oda clan instead, and by doing
Kazusa no kami (Ujizane), it is dated January 20, so the Imagawa turned their hatred toward
1561, and it is signed by the Shôgun, Ashikaga Ieyasu’s mother. Ieyasu would not be permitted
Yoshiteru (1536-1565). In the letter Yoshiteru is to meet his mother again, and the young samu-
requesting, or demanding, that there must be rai came to be separated from her from the age
an end to the hostilities between the Okazaki of three to he was a young man of more than
Matsudaira (Ieyasu) and the Imagawa clan. The twenty.
present situation makes it impossible to com- This was the cruel reality for a samurai-child
mute between the Kantô area and the western during the Sengoku Jidai, used as a political
part along the Tôkaidô road. A state of war and strategical piece in a complex struggle
makes it unsafe for travelers to use the Tôkaidô for power. Ieyasu got used to his life without
road, and this cannot continue. So, from this let- his mother. There might have occurred an
ter’s contents it is clear that hostilities have bro- opportunity, he thought, as he waged war on
ken out within the Mikawa province, and the his former patronage family. The early spring
whole area is unsafe to travel through. No more of 1561 turned the whole war in Ieyasu’s favor.
than seven months have passed and Ieyasu is on The whole northeastern part of Mikawa broke
the warpath aimed at his former lord. off their relations with Ujizane and joined
If there were open hostilities between the Ieyasu. This was a huge blow to the Imagawa’s
Matsudaira and Imagawa, why didn’t Ujizane grip and holdings in Mikawa, and now only a
put Ieyasu’s family to death? Well, it would few scattered castles in the southern part of
probably not alter the ongoing events. Instead the province remained loyal. Among those who

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Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)
 turned their coat we find; Matsudaira Iehiro have been others, it was a severe blow to the
on Katahara Castle, Matsudaira Kiyoyoshi on Imagawa influence, and their grip on Mikawa,
Takenoya, Saigô Masakatsu on Gohonmatsu, when the whole northeastern part of the prov-
Suganuma Sadakatsu on Inomichi, Suganuma ince turned their coat. Isolating many of those
Sadamitsu on Noda, Suganuma Sadatada on still loyal to the Imagawa – so one should think
Damine, Suganuma Masasada on Nagashino, that now it will be an easy task to overrun the
Okudaira Sadayoshi on Tsukude and Shitara remaining scattered oppositions. But this was
Sadamichi on Kawaji. not the case, time and time again Ujizane sent
This massive breakoff did not go unpunished, his soldiers over the border from Tôtômi to
and not long after several of the family mem- attack enemy positions. And not to forget, some
bers of the lords that had turned their back of these remaining loyal castle-lords could yet
on the Imagawa got their loved ones executed. enforce their will within their territories and
One of these unfortunate lords was Matsudaira raise a force when needed. Ieyasu still had some
Iehiro. His youngest son, Ukon, was a hostage hard fighting to do before his unification could
at Yoshida Castle in Mikawa, and together with be ascertained.
family members from the Okudaira, Suganuma, The autumn of 1561 would bring a lot of
Okuyama, Mizuno, Shinoda, Ôtake, Shiroi and new thoughts and possibilities for Ieyasu. In
Asaba were all taken to the Ryûnenji temple, September, this year Ieyasu’s captain Honda
located in the vicinity of the foot of the castle, Hirotaka attacked Tôjô Castle, owned by Kira
and executed. This awful act was done in the Yoshiaki, and this was certainly one of the main
early spring of 1561. Breaching a contract of loy- strongholds in southern Mikawa, and therefore
alty had its price, and as seen in this case many it was an important catch. These military victo-
of the families were ready to pay this high level ries were of course of great importance, but the
of family grief for the clan’s future self-determi- greatest victory came later that year – it was the
nation and independence – the word “indepen- negotiations with Oda in Owari, which came
dence” used in its broadest meaning. about due to the previously mentioned Mizuno
This spring-revolution turned into a great Nobumoto. He told Ieyasu that he could meddle
opportunity for Ieyasu, and the fight for inde- between Ieyasu and Oda Nobunaga, and maybe
pendence certainly got the necessary energy there could be a long-term peace between the
with this eastern boost in support – and not to two houses. This was certainly something that
forget, in pure military strength. Ieyasu con- Ieyasu wanted to exploit to the full extent. A
tinued now his campaign against the Imagawa long-lasting peace with his enemy in the west
bastions in the southern part of the province. would be a great opportunity for him to finally
Among those castles still remaining under unite Mikawa without fearing for his western
Imagawa influence at the beginning of summer flank. In the beginning talks, in form of letters,
in 1561 was Kaminogô, Nishinogôri, Ushikubo, were conducted and Mizuno played a huge part
Yoshida, Tahara and Nishio, but there might in the final arrangement of a meeting between
have been others, less known. Within this the two. On January 15, 1562, Ieyasu visited Oda
southern part of Mikawa there were hundreds Nobunaga in his castle at Kiyosu. An agreement
of smaller fortresses and fortified mansions was signed by the two parties and all military
during the 16th century. Although there might hostilities ended, in fact it is recorded in sources

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 that a ceasefire came about already back in for going along with this exchange. The true rea-
February or March of 1561 between the two fam- son on why Ujizane actually traded away these
ilies. This means that quite early there seem to aces of cards for much less will never be truly
have been some sort of correspondence between known. So, is this story true? Not easy to answer
the two, and hostilities were at least scarce. but looking at what happened to other families
Ieyasu must have felt a great relief as this breaking away from the Imagawa back in the
huge burden had fallen from his shoulders as spring of 1561, one has to wonder, their family
he turned his horse toward Okazaki, but soon members were slaughtered.
a worrying thought came to his mind. His wife Finally, an exhausting period was over for
(Tsukiyama) and two children (Kamehime and Ieyasu, and at last he could breathe normally
Nobuyasu) were still hostages at Sunpu, and and concentrate all his efforts on his goal of a
as soon as the news of his agreement with Oda unified Mikawa. So, in the early spring of 1562
would be officially known, or rumors spread, he worked on consolidating his position within
his family members would certainly be put to the province, and he made sure that any inva-
the sword. Ieyasu feared the worst and he need- sion from the east would be met quickly and
ed to act fast, and quickly acquire something he resolutely. All castles in the border area were
could negotiate or bargain with. Who came up strengthened, and this was certainly imple-
with the idea is uncertain, but it turned out that mented by the lords on the border – they feared
the lord of Nishinogôri Castle, Udono Nagateru, that their former lord wanted to punish them
had two sons, and maybe Ieyasu could capture even further. This was legitimate fear, due to
these two boys and get some kind of a deal with the fact that Ujizane actually tried to make an
Ujizane? Nishinogôri Castle was located not effort to gain back the lost areas, but he was not
that far to the southwest of Okazaki, but time seemingly overeager at this moment. Maybe he
was short. On February 4, 1562, soldiers under should try to hold on to the remaining prov-
the command of Hisamatsu Toshikatsu and inces of Suruga and Tôtômi. He probably feared
Matsui Tadatsugu attacked Nishinogôri, and the an invasion from the west just as much as they
castle was overrun. The two boys, Ujinaga and feared an invasion from the east. The year ended
Ujitsugu, were captured alive, but their father with only a few military confrontations, but no
died in the fighting. The two boys were treated definitive battle. In the beginning of 1563 Ieyasu
well and brought to Okazaki. Now, Ieyasu had was stronger than ever, and in March his young
finally got what he needed to strike a deal. The son, Nobuyasu, was engaged to Oda Nobunaga’s
boys were actually cousins of Ujizane, and that daughter, Gotoku. This was of course a political
is why Ieyasu thought that they had some value arrangement, but still it was an important
to him. Ieyasu contacted Ujizane in Sunpu, and move for both of them. Now they could engage
Ujizane agreed to a deal. Ishikawa Kazumasa in other areas, on military matters, knowing
was sent off to make the exchange – everything that their eastern-western front was secure.
went according to plan. This was a great success Oda could focus on Mino province, the Saitô
for Ieyasu, and soon there was a wholehearted clan, while Ieyasu could strengthen his hold
reunion between father, wife and the two chil- on Mikawa and polish his plans on a campaign
dren at Okazaki Castle. In later records it is stat- toward Tôtômi.
ed that Ujizane had to have been an utter idiot On July 6, 1563, Matsudaira Motoyasu changed

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 his name officially to Matsudaira Ieyasu run by Torii Jôshin a Buddhist monk. One day
(the last letter, in existence, with the name a lot of soldiers came to his store and within a
Motoyasu was sent out in June and addressed short time the store was almost leveled to the
to Matsudaira Naokatsu, lord of Ôno Castle in ground. Angry soldiers that owed Torii money
Mikawa). It has to be mentioned that some other had now rampaged the place. The monks inside
sources state another year on when he changed the temple heard the commotion outside and
his name, but several letters from June 1563 goes soon they came armed with bô (wooden poles),
a long way in verifying that it did not happen and as a united force they chased the soldiers
before July in 1563. back to where they came from – some say all the
way back to Okazaki Castle. Ieyasu got news of
The Ikko Ikki Rebellion what had happened, and soon armed soldiers
Everything went according to Ieyasu’s plans at were dispatched to quell the rebellious monks.
the moment, but things would soon go sour. This was the spark that lighted the rebellion
Autumn 1563, September, all hell broke loose in in Mikawa province. Within a short period of
and around Okazaki Castle (one source states time many other temples and common people,
that it occurred in 1562). A large Ikkô Ikki rebel- and samurai, joined in with the insurgents. In
lion erupted, and soon Ieyasu needed to fight just a few weeks everything had turned upside
for his life. down for Ieyasu – almost at his doorstep a new
In order to escape the swords of the enemy enemy was knocking at his castle-gate.
he had to hide in a small cave for a while – or so There were mainly three large temple centers
the story goes. This rebellion was certainly not that had joined forces in this uprising; the
expected, and soon he found out that several of Jôgûji at Sazaki, the Honshôji at Nodera and the
his so-called “loyal” retainers had joined in with Shômanji at Harisaki. All of these had strong
the enemy. There are several stories on the rea- ties to the Honganji Temple, especially in the
son for this Ikkô Ikki outbreak, and one of the Kaga and Echizen provinces. This would be the
stories states that a retainer of the Matsudaira Jôdô Shinshû sect of Buddhism. In addition
by the name Suganuma Sadaaki was ordered to to these three, was the temple of Honshûji
erect a fortress on a hill at Sazaki (Okazaki City, (Zenshûji) at Toro, to the south of Okazaki.
Sazaki), and not far from the site of the temple Under Imagawa rule the Jôdô temples of
of Jôgûji. Suganuma ordered his men to go to Mikawa held many valuable perks, such as lower
the temple and confiscate ricefrom the temple’s tax, more or less self-government and the “no
storage. This act was naturally something the trespassing law” – that is to say no one other
monks at the temple objected to, and soon there than monks or people with explicit permission
came to violence. This is one of the stories and from the temple itself could enter the temple
there are several questions to this version – one complex. They could also conduct several forms
is that there is no other information on this of business enterprises – and this self-gov-
Suganuma Sadaaki, and some will say he never ernment and freedom made the temples in
existed. Well, be that as it may – one other ver- question extremely wealthy. When Ieyasu came
sion states that at the village of Watari, south- to power in Okazaki he needed to build and
east of Okazaki, lays the temple of Honshôji. strengthen castles and provide better quarters
Close to the temple entrance there was a shop, for his soldiers.

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 Azukizaka 1564, Wiki Commons

All of these extra expenditures made it nec- The surprise of the Ikkô Ikki rebellion was one
essary to implement new taxes for all – even thing, but what Ieyasu did not expect was that
the temples belonging to the Jôdô sect, thereby many of his retainers would join in the uprising.
revoke at least some of their privileges. This is Like why the rebellion started there are also
considered to be an important factor to why many stories on why many samurai joined in
a large rebellion broke out, and why it was with the sectarians. One reason might be the
connected to the temples mentioned above. fact that after Yoshimoto’s death in 1560, many
To blame the Imagawa for letting the temples families, small and large, wanted or wished for
in Mikawa receiving a total freedom would be their own family’s freedom and independence.
wrong – it was in fact Ieyasu’s father, Hirotada, They thought probably why should they go from
that had granted the rights to the temples in the one master over to another, they could just as
first place. well rule themselves. One more factor has to be

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 mentioned, many of the samurai were religious sources that he was neutral), Honda Masanobu,
and now they faced a real dilemma – should Hachiya Sadatsugu, Natsume Yoshinobu and the
they follow their oath to the Matsudaira or their Matsudaira clan on Ôkusa Castle, among others.
oath to their faith and temple? Many faced this In addition to “loyal” vassals of the Matsudaira
problem, and a few experienced the change of there were a lot of other more independent
heart during the fighting – they decided not to lords, high and low, that joined in the rebellion
fight against Ieyasu. So, there was a lot of confu- – among these; Kira Yoshiaki on Tôjô Castle,
sion among the insurgents – probably on both Arakawa Yoshihiro and Sakai Tadahisa (in a
sides. new source read Tadanao) on Ueno Castle. But
On the Ikkô side we have Matsudaira Ietsugu exempt all these samurai of various ranks, we
on Sakurai Castle (it is also recorded in some find a lot of common people and many of these
were lightly armed and with just a bamboo

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 spear at hand they joined in the fighting. tactical operations that forced the enemies back
Reliable sources are sparse on the numbers to their base whenever they tried to move toward
involved on both sides, but on the four temples Okazaki, or any other place for that matter.
that made out the base for the rebellion one can After many weeks with this hither and thither
find the following information; tactic, Ieyasu finally got a break. On October 24,
Honshôji at Nodera–more than 100 cavalry and forces under the command of Matsui Tadatsugu
many foot samurai. and Matsudaira Kamechiyo attacked Tôjô Castle,
Jôgûji at Sazaki–more than 100 cavalry and held by Kira Yoshiaki, later also Honda Hirotaka
many foot samurai. took part in the battle, and Kira was forced to
surrender. With this victory one of the main
Shômanji at Harisaki–118 cavalry and many foot
leaders of the rebellious samurais was out of
samurai.
the game. In the end of October 1563, Ieyasu
Honshûji at Toro–more than 120 cavalry and
and his forces met the Ikki army at Sazaki – it
many foot samurai.
ended with victory for Ieyasu. And yet again on
So, the cavalry force came to about 450, and the November 25, he managed to defeat an Ikkô Ikki
number for the foot samurai must surely have force at Azukizaka, and at this battle a “former”
been more than 1,000. In addition to the foot Ieyasu vassal by the name of Hachiya Hannojô,
soldiers there might have been a lot of warrior renowned for his use of spear, came almost
monks and common people (ashigaru) as well, face to face with his former lord. But instead of
many armed with just a bamboo-spear, – so the fighting on, Hachiya lost heart and fled the bat-
true numbers for the Ikkô Ikki side cannot be tlefield – It seems that he was unable to raise his
verified, but they surely were a force to be reck- spear at Ieyasu. There might have been a pause in
oned with, and Ieyasu was not at all sure about hostilities approaching New Year, but on January
the outcome of this conflict. 7, there were several encounters and Ieyasu, in
Ieyasu on the other hand could assemble a lot person, struck down a samurai by the name of
of warriors of samurai rank, and although there Watagiri Magoshichirô. On January 11, 1564, the
are no exact numbers – when considering that castle of Kamiwada was surrounded by an Ikki
almost all, but one of, the Matsudaira clans had force, Ieyasu received information of enemy
joined his banner – so it must have been several movements and at once he set off from Okazaki
thousands. In addition, there were all the clans to aid in their defense. Ieyasu and his force met
still loyal to Ieyasu, they too joined in the fray. with the enemy and a fierce battle ensued, the
The fighting commenced on September 5, 1563, fighting continued for two days, but in the end
and in the beginning, it seems that the Ikkô Ikki Ieyasu was the strongest and forced the enemy
made some progress, although the situation was back.
chaotic. There is some information on battles On the 25th two samurai by the name of
here and there, and to some extent the main Aoyama and Fukatsu acted as shinobi (spies), and
course of events can be followed. In fact, Okazaki they entered the premises of Jôgûji temple and
Castle was more or less surrounded by enemies, managed to set a part of the temple on fire. But
and the only thing that stood in their way was the two men were discovered by the monks and
that among all the temples and enemy bastions killed. Not giving up, the Ikkô Ikki from Jôgûji
Ieyasu had loyal lords, and these exerted good temple ventured out again, and on February 13,

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 maybe as revenge to the previous sneak attack located almost on top of the Tôkaidô Road, and
from Ieyasu, the target became Okazaki Castle the castle commander was a stubborn fellow,
itself. Ieyasu got news of the approaching enemy and he had no intention of giving up his castle
force, and instead of facing a siege, Ieyasu wanted without a fight. It had to be taken by force. On
to meet the enemy in open battle. He was person- June 20, 1564, the castle of Yoshida was attacked
ally in the vanguard and during the fighting it is by Ieyasu’s forces. Its castle commander was
said that his armor was struck by two teppô-bul- Obara Shizuzane (Ôhara Sukeyoshi), and he was a
lets, but since his armor was of top quality the loyal Imagawa vassal until the end. The attackers
bullets inflicted no harm to his body. won and the castle was handed over to Ieyasu’s
Now, the Ikkô Ikki lost the will to fight. Several captain Sakai Tadatsugu.
crushing defeats weekend their ranks and sev- The battle for Mikawa was now over. Over the
eral samurais of rank surrendered. Ieyasu was next couple of years Ieyasu established a solid
lenient toward the lords that had fought against and a relatively righteous rule over the prov-
him, and among those pardoned were Honda ince and its people. Letters went out to various
Masanobu, Hachiya Sadatsugu and Watanabe temples and samurai in which their land and
Masashige (or maybe read Masanari). domains were granted and verified. At the same
Some of his eager opponents fled the land; time samurai throughout the province had to
Sakai Tadahisa put his money on Ujizane and fled pledge loyalty toward the Matsudaira, in fact to
to Sunpu in Suruga. Kira Yoshiaki and Arakawa Ieyasu. Ieyasu placed loyal retainers on castles at
Yoshihiro fled toward the north – exactly where strategic places.
is unknown. On the matter of punishment for As an example, was Sakai Tadatsugu granted
the temple warriors and the common people (the the post as supervisor over the eastern part of
Ikki) that had taken part in the rebellion, Ieyasu Mikawa, and his base castle was Yoshida.
showed great heart and he pardoned them all. In March of 1565 three of Ieyasu’s most loyal
In one great pardoning swoop the province of captains; Kôriki Kiyonaga (1530-1608), Honda
Mikawa returned to a quiet and peaceful place. Shigetsugu (1529-1596) and Amano Yasukage
With this victory over the coalition forces of (1537-1613), were promoted to magistrates (bugyô)
samurai, monks and common people, Ieyasu on civil and justice issues within Mikawa.
showed he had what was needed to lead and rule. In December of 1566 Ieyasu was granted, by the
There would be no more unrest within his prov- Imperial Court, permission to change his sur-
ince. But still a few remaining castles held out, name from Matsudaira to Tokugawa, bestowed
they were still under Imagawa control and influ- the Court-rank of Jû-go-i-no-ge, and he was grant-
ence. Several of the southeastern castle-lords ed the title Mikawa no Kami.
turned against Imagawa and joined up with All the past ill-blood that had flowed through
Ieyasu. They had seen at firsthand what Ieyasu the province seemed to be forgotten, and from
was capable of, and how he had defeated a rather now on Ieyasu and his band of vassals could turn
large rebellious force right at his own doorstep. their attention outside of their home province.
The final opposition within Mikawa was
Yoshida Castle in the southeastern part – it was

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 Oda and Ieyasu consolidate their power fights in the eastern region of Sunpu, against
After Imagawa Yoshimoto was killed in 1560 it Imagawa forces, he was soon in conflict, as
was his son, Ujizane, who ruled the provinces, expected, with the Hôjô as well. While Ieyasu
but he was not the warrior his father had been, approaches the border of Tôtômi. Several bor-
and soon the walls around their domains der castles are captured and Ieyasu aims for
started to crumble. Shingen to the north and Kakegawa, in which Ujizane had taken shelter.
Ieyasu to the west, realized that Ujizane was When Shingen’s soldiers neared Sunpu, Ujizane
slowly losing his grip and he became more of decided to flee toward Kakegawa Castle in
an “excuse me” figure in these warring times. Tôtômi. He joined up with the lord of the castle,
Ieyasu had almost at once gone on a warpath Asahina Yasutomo. Inside his new base, Ujizane
to liberate himself and Mikawa province, and could do nothing else than watching Ieyasu’s
which he managed to do after a few years. But army closing in on them and tightening the
nearing the end of the 1560s Ieyasu aimed for noose around Kakegawa.
Imagawa’s main provinces. In February of 1568, Ieyasu chose Honzaka Pass (border between
both Ieyasu and Shingen agreed upon a plan Tôtômi and Mikawa) on which to enter into
of co-operation, which in essence was to attack Tôtômi. But it was also a lot of unfamiliar ter-
and oust Imagawa Ujizane. Shingen had become ritory he now came upon, and so he engaged
worried about the situation in the south. Ieyasu Suganuma Tadahisa, Suzuki Shigetoki and
had become stronger while Ujizane had shown Kondô Yasumochi to guide his army when they
signs of negligence to all military matters, and a had entered Tôtômi (Mikawa monogatari). The
weak military leader. Shingen wanted to secure three mentioned generals were all landholders
his southern border, and at the same time get in Iinoya area, and they had all been seduced by
a coastline, and try to hamper Ieyasu’s advance Ieyasu to yield without a fight. They been given
eastward. But in order to succeed with his plans, letters of verification on their landholdings,
and see his goals achieved, he decided for now and likewise a promise of an increase in income,
to hook up with Ieyasu. located at various places in Tôtômi–a total of
It was not all that easy though, the Takeda 2,500 kanmon.
was bound by a peace agreement with both the They formed the spearhead of Ieyasu’s forc-
Imagawa and Hôjô, and a war with either of es. The first target was Iinoya Castle in Inasa
them would surely ignite hostilities from the district, and it was attacked on December 13.
third player. Shingen knew what the results In the Hamamatsu go-zaijôki the following is
could be, but the peace that had lasted since conveyed:
1554 had now outplayed its role, as he saw it, and “Imaizumi Shirôbee, Suganuma Shinpachirô,
the stakes were much higher. In early December Suganuma Sadahisa, Kondô Yasumochi, and
of 1568 Shingen invades Suruga province – aim- Suzuki Yasutoki, they all joined Ieyasu, and
ing for Sunpu. served as guides. They set off on December 13,
Almost at the same time Ieyasu prepares to and on the 15th, they came to Iinoya area.”
invade Tôtômi province and secure as much of Several castles were captured within a
this province as possible. The deal between the few days – Iinoya, Osakabe and Shirasuka,
two was that Ieyasu would keep Tôtômi and and on the 18th the army entered Hikuma
Shingen would occupy Suruga. While Shingen (Hamamatsu) Castle.

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 Shingen received information on the progress made with Shingen the province would be
Ieyasu had, and he was not at all happy about Ieyasu’s. Therefore, Ieyasu prepared his men to
Ieyasu’s success–on one occasion Akiyama take the castle by force if necessary. The cam-
Nobutomo had invaded Ieyasu’s field of battle paign against Amakata seems to have started
from the north, via Ina district in Shinano sometime in May but the castle was not taken
province, into Tôtômi, but Shingen ordered him before middle of June – so evidently it had
soon to retreat back toward Shinano after Ieyasu turned into a siege and ended with a complete
complained–Shingen apologized to Ieyasu surrender on June 19. Participating captains on
or came up with some lame excuse. Was it a Ieyasu’s side were Sakakibara Yasumasa, Amano
desperate attempt to hamper Ieyasu successful Yasukage and Ôkubo Tadachika. During the
advance? This invasion by Akiyama was a small same campaign, the castle of Iida (in Suchi dis-
incident, but still an important warning of what trict), not far from Amakata, was also attacked
would come later, and Ieyasu was probably well and captured.
aware of where things were going. By this reck- For the time being a peace with Shingen was
less act Shingen had probably shown Ieyasu his gold, as Ieyasu could now focus on supporting
true intentions. Oda in his challenges around the Capital. Oda
In May of 1569 Ujizane surrendered, and in on the other hand, was quite satisfied with
the final deal, he was permitted to travel east the situation in the east. Ieyasu dealings with
toward the still loyal to the treaty Hôjô clan of Shingen had given him time to focus and
his. On Kakegawa Castle Ieyasu placed his cap- consolidate his grip on the Capital and the sur-
tain Ishikawa Ienari. Now, Ieyasu could secure rounding provinces. Oda wanted to maintain
his grip on Tôtômi province, he persuaded and this status quo as long as possible in the east.
pressed remaining loyal vassals of the Imagawa In June of 1570 Ieyasu moved from Okazaki
to join him – this was a relatively easy task, and to Hamamatsu (previously called Hikuma) in
many lords surrendered without any fuss. Tôtômi, and this became his base for many years
Within his new landholdings, Ieyasu set out to come. Later this year Ieyasu took part, and
at once to secure his borders to the east and played a vital role, in the campaign and battle
north. Ieyasu had defeated Ujizane, but still not at Anegawa in Ômi province. He
all of Tôtômi province’s lords were willing to fought alongside Nobunaga against
give up their new founded freedom. Amakata the Asakura and Asai. Although
(Amagata) Castle with its lord Yamanouchi Ieyasu ventured westward on a cou- LEARN
(Amakata) Yamashiro no Kami in Suchi district ple of occasions, it was still in the MORE
of Tôtômi, was not willing to give up that easy. east he would have to focus, because
According to the Shokoku haijôkô, it was under Shingen soon turned his eyes on Ieyasu’s ter-
Takeda influence, maybe the commander ritories. Ieyasu feared that something would
served the Takeda? Many other minor castles turn up sooner or later from the east, and in 1571
of which Amano attacked for Ieyasu also fell Shingen was on the move. In the early spring
rather quickly. All of these small fortifications Shingen advanced with his army toward the
had fallen to Akiyama’s seductions, but after southeastern part of Tôtômi and approached
Akiyama retreated back to Shinano they quickly Takatenjin Castle. Ieyasu’s general Ogasawara
changed color. Anyway, according to the deal Nagatada held the enemy out, and soon the

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 Mikatagahara 1572, Wiki Commons

Takeda retreated in a northerly direction – head- worn-out ranks. Ieyasu was forced to remain
ing for Ina in Shinano (Takatenjinjô senshi). The within his Hamamatsu Castle, while Shingen
peace between the two didn’t last long, as soon could proceed further west. What happens later
as Shingen had secured his hold on Suruga, at Noda Castle is well known, Shingen becomes
fended off the Hôjô and prepared maritime very sick, after a longer period of illness, and on
units, he was aiming for Ieyasu’s piece of the his return to Kai province he died in Ina district
cake. of Shinano on April 12, 1573.
Shingen was constantly invading Ieyasu’s Shingen was dead, but a new Takeda leader
territories and soon a major confrontation stepped into the limelight, Katsuyori who
occurred on a plateau not far from Hamamatsu was Shingen’s fourth son. He took over and
Castle in Tôtômi. continued his father’s ambitions to conquer
The battle of Mikatagahara, in December of Tôtômi and beyond. Ieyasu got a short respite
1572 (according to the old Japanese calendar), when Shingen’s constant military campaigns
is one of the most famous encounters between suddenly came to a halt. Was Shingen dead?
Shingen and Ieyasu. Shingen won, but in all Rumors started to spread on Shingen being
honesty, Shingen had more troops, and it was dead, and letters from the period between
a field battle on the plains of Mikatagahara. the main players, suggested or hinted on this
Two skilled commanders in which the unequal being the case. Ieyasu was eager to find out,
numbers of men were the main reason why and soon after Shingen had disappeared from
Shingen won. Ieyasu’s soldiers fought well, but the stage, and the rumors of a passing away
in the long run they became exhausted and increased, he wanted to test the responsive
were forced to retreat when Shingen constantly willingness of the Takeda army. He invaded
let fresh troops engage the enemy’s already Suruga province. Katsuyori stayed quiet for a

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 short period, but he was forced to respond to were constructed on hills in a semi-circle
enemy attacks, like the one’s executed by Ieyasu, around the southeast, east, and northeast-
and soon his initial plan of remaining quiet, ern side, all facing Takatenjin; Ogasayama
was thwarted. Gradually the war between the (2,5 kilometers from Takatenjin), Nakamura
Takeda and Tokugawa became reignited. Tôtômi Shiroyama, Nogasaka, Higamine, Shishigahana
and Mikawa would be the main stage over the and Kazefuki – all these other fortifications
roughly next ten years between the two adver- were closer to Takatenjin than Ogasayama. The
saries, and among one of their several contend- intention and completion of these fortifications
ed objects was the castle of Takatenjin. Located was in order to prevent the encircled forces to
south of Kakegawa Castle in Tôtômi province. sally out, and also to hamper any rescue force
In 1574 the castle was captured by the Takeda from entering the castle. In fact, already in
clan and as the struggle and war for Tôtômi March of that year, Ieyasu had been in this area,
province, between the Takeda and Tokugawa, and on that occasion his forces erected three
continued, Takatenjin became an important fortifications around the enemy base-castle, but
base to control. Ieyasu gradually got the upper nothing more came out of it.
hand on Takeda Katsuyori and during the year This time Ieyasu was determent to take this
of 1580 he decided the time was right to close enemy bastion, and his men started to build a
the chapter on Takatenjin. By October 22nd, fence and to dig a dry moat all around the castle
1580, Ieyasu’s army had reached Takatenjin – this in order to keep the defenders inside. In
Castle. The army had advanced southeast from addition to the fences and fortifications facing
Hamamatsu toward Yokosuka, and then fur- Takatenjin, a large fence on top of the dry moat
ther east toward Takatenjin, located in Tôtômi was constructed, on the opposite side of the
province. To the south of the castle, on a small fortifications facing outwards – this in order to
hill called Mitsuizan, Ieyasu ordered a fortress fend against a possible rescue force from Takeda
to be constructed – just opposite Takatenjin Katsuyori.
Castle. Mitsuizan was a perfect place to erect a Ieyasu had prepared for a long siege, and if
fortification, the hill had three natural water- necessary, he would wait long enough to starve
springs, used as wells, and on all sides the hill the defenders into submission – this seemed to
had more or less natural defensive lines. From be his preliminary plan. Ieyasu himself made
the east side, running south, there was a large camp at Mamushizuka (Mabusezuka), about 8
valley, making this a natural defensive moat. On kilometers northwest of Takatenjin, while the
the northeast side there were huge cliffs with rest of the army was located in various positions
steep sides making sure that this side is also around the enemy castle.
effectively protected. The hill, with its cliffs, In October 1580 it was Okabe Masayuki (or
made it perfect as a lookout position, so all in all Naganori, or Nobumoto, various sources on
a very good location for a fortress. The west side who commanded the castle) who command-
of Takatenjin were full of overlapping moun- ed the approx. 1,000 defenders on
tains and would not be a real approach route for Takatenjin Castle, his second in
any attack. Ieyasu had a great base for further command was Yokota Tadatoshi
advances against Takatenjin. But he wanted (Tadamatsu). Masayuki belonged LEARN
more, and in all five (or six) more fortifications to the Okabe family which served MORE

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 Nagashino 1575, Wiki Commons

the Takeda. The family was part of the Suruga longer period. Ieyasu had made the necessary
sakigata-shû (Suruga country units). Masayuki preparations for a long siege. Strong fortifica-
had first served with the Imagawa and then tions guarded toward the castle, and against
with Takeda Shingen, and from 1573 Shingen’s enemy reinforcements that might appear
son Katsuyori. He was an experienced and brave from the north and east, in the form of Takeda
commander and when the Tokugawa army Katsuyori.
showed up at his doorstep – he was far from The siege started from the moment the
intimidated. Already in June of this year, 1580, Tokugawa army arrived outside the walls of
the enemy army had terrorized this area by Takatenjin Castle. That is to say, around the
burning down villages and destroying every- middle of October 1580. Fortifications were
thing they got their hands on. built and moats and palisades were made, in
Ieyasu had brought with him about 11,000 addition also the barbwire of the Middle Ages –
soldiers on this campaign, and now his various branches and sharpened twigs that were placed
divisions were placed around the castle’s outer in front of the palisades, and in the moat and
defenses – guarding. Ieyasu commanded the just as often on the edge of the moat. All of these
largest force of 3,000, and then follows Honda preparations in order to hamper the attacker
Tadakatsu with 2,500, Sakakibara Yasumasa in his advance. On the other hand, the attacker
2,500, Torii Mototada 1,000, Ôsuka Yasutaka 750, used shields, large and small handheld kinds,
Ishikawa Yasumichi 500, Honda Yasushige 500, in order to approach as near as possible without
and Sakai Shigetada 250. But total idleness until getting hit, and then he would launch an attack
the enemy eventually surrendered was not the when he was close enough.
case; the soldiers were ordered to set the area’s Ieyasu had no intentions of an all-out attack
farmhouses on fire and cut down the rip rice on the castle’s defenses, so instead the army
in the fields around the castle. Ieyasu wanted sat down around the castle’s outer walls and
to make sure that the enemy would be cut off moats. He also ordered soldiers to stand guard
completely from any food and other supplies around the whole castle’s outer defenses, in fact
that would help them to endure the siege for a a soldier was placed every 1,8 meter around the

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 whole enemy fortification. was the latter. According to the source Shinchô
Then on January the 3rd Ieyasu was informed kôki in all 688 soldiers of various rank joined
that a force under the command of Takeda the commander of the castle in a desperate
Katsuyori was approaching. Oda Nobunaga got attack out onto the besiegers, and they were
the same information and he immediately sent killed. In Matsudaira Ietada’s diary Ietada nikki,
Mizuno Tadamoto and Mizuno Tadashige in the the following note occurs:
lead with forces from Ôno in Owari with them “among our own we lost about 130 in total,
toward Yokosuka Castle. So now the Tokugawa while the enemy lost more than 600”.
army had received reinforcements, and it would Looking at the information in the Shinchô
be even harder for the besieged army, or for kôki and Ietada nikki on the number of dead
that matter any rescue army from Takeda, to lift enemies, these corroborate quite accurate and
the siege. Nothing more came out of the rumor makes this information credible.
about a Takeda rescue-force – the castle’s defend- Another source has the following to say about
ers were left to fend for themselves. the final battle:
In February Ieyasu wanted to give the defend- “The defenders were divided into two groups,
ers a chance to surrender. Ieyasu knew that and one group sallied out in westward direc-
the defenders had very little food, and rumors tion toward the Hayashi Valley, where the units
about them picking grass and other foliage as under Ôkubo Tadayo’s command were standing.
food reached the ears of Ieyasu. He sent them a The other group stormed out toward Ishikawa
proposal, giving them permission to leave the Yasumichi’s position more to the east. Here to,
castle unharmed. If this is historical correct, all the desperate soldiers were killed.”
and really happened, is unknown. Anyway, if
In fact, if the rumors are true, not all of the
there was a proposal from Ieyasu, the defenders
defenders were killed, according to some
must have declined – because the final chapter
sources a few managed to escape – among these
was just a few weeks away, and it was not a
we find Yokota, the second-in-command of
peaceful conclusion.
Takatenjin Castle.
Ieyasu gave the order to prepare for a final
To follow up his victory, Ieyasu ordered his
assault. He moved his camp to Yokosuka, and
men on the 23rd to search the area for any
from there he supervised the preparations.
remaining enemies. While his men searched the
He strengthened the forces around the enemy
area, Ieyasu entered in person Takatenjin Castle
castle because the starving defenders might try
to inspect the formidable fortress. When it
to sally out, a few at a time during the night, or
could be ascertained that the area was safe and
maybe a large-scale attack. Ieyasu wanted to be
the castle was firmly in their possession, Ieyasu
prepared for every probability.
ordered the main bulk of the army to return
The final attack came on the 22nd of March, to their respective castles. On the 24th Ieyasu
in the evening, but it is not that easy to under- returned to his Hamamatsu Castle.
stand what really happened – the sources are
From this day on Takatenjin Castle served as
a bit diffusing on the sequence of events. It
a support and base castle in this area of Tôtômi
seems that in the evening of the 22nd the enemy
province, but when Ieyasu moved to the Kantô
sallied out in a desperate attempt to break the
area in 1590 – Takatenjin became abandoned.
siege, or maybe as a last fight to their death – it

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 Sekigahara 1600, Wiki Commons
This example of a siege and battle at sometimes the attackers give up and continue
Takatenjin is typical of many of the military their campaign somewhere else or they retreat.
campaigns during the Sengoku Period. An During the 16th century in Japan there was
invading army lay siege to a castle, either they almost one such military action every other day.
tried to take the castle within a few days, or it After this battle and victory Ieyasu never
turned into a long and tiresome siege – some- again experienced any actual threats from
times tiresome for both sides. In the end the Katsuyori. The next year, March of 1582, the final
besieged army might succumb to starvation or days of the Takeda came, and Ieyasu played a
thirst and surrender, or they would try a desper- huge role in their destruction. But the main
ate last attack – a so-called suicide-attack. The architect behind the plan to destroy Katsuyori
third option is that the besieging army storms and the Takeda clan was Oda Nobunaga. In addi-
the castle when the defenders are too exhaust- tion, the Hôjô joined in, they too wanted a piece
ed to defend. There is even another option, of the cake. Such was their drive that they ended

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 up in a face-to-face standoff with Ieyasu in Kai acted without delay on receiving the news of his
province. This encounter ended rather peace- master’s death – Toyotomi Hideyoshi. He acted
fully though when Oda granted Kai province to quickly and knew the key would be to march
Ieyasu. on Kyôto, kill Mitsuhide and seize power–
Hideyoshi knew what he had to do. Within a few
The end of the Sengoku jidai days he reached the capital and faced Mitsuhide
In 1582 the whole world collapsed when at Yamazaki, south of Kyôto. Hideyoshi won the
Nobunaga was killed at Honnôji in Kyôto. All of battle and stepped up as the new boss in charge.
Nobunaga’s general staff were totally lost after While this was going on in and around the
such an event, except Akechi Mitsuhide whom capital, Ieyasu was making his way home to
had committed the crime and knew very well Hamamatsu. He stayed quiet at his base, while
what was going on. But there was one other who Hideyoshi dealt with Nobunaga’s murderer. As

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 soon as Mitsuhide was dead, all of the generals Nobunaga’s brothers soon joined in against
thought of what the future would bring, and Hideyoshi. Fierce fighting occurred in Ise, Mino,
many of them returned to their base castles and and Owari provinces. Even Tokugawa Ieyasu was
contemplated of what would come next, and at pulled into this mess, but although he did quite
the same time planed their own future. well against Hideyoshi at Komaki Nagakute in
Nobunaga had relatives, and especially his 1584 – he decided to bid his time – and although
brothers were keen on taking over the reins. he won a military confrontation in the Komaki
Ieyasu stayed out of this brewing conflict, at campaign–he joined Hideyoshi.
least to begin with, but soon he was, willingly or From 1584 until Hideyoshi’s death in 1598,
not, sucked into it. The deal which the remain- Ieyasu stayed loyal, and was clever enough not
ing generals of Nobunaga agreed to, at Kiyosu to get entangled in the Imjin War. He was in the
Castle in Owari, was that Hideyoshi would be lead at Odawara in 1590, and after their great
Sanpôshi’s guardian until the little boy was old victory, Ieyasu was granted the Kantô region as
enough to rule. The boy was Nobunaga’s grand- a reward for his excellent performance.
son–later the boy was named Hidenobu–he After Hideyoshi’s death in 1598, two camps
never inherited his grandfather’s titles nor land had gradually been formed throughout the
and died quietly in 1605 at Kôyasan. Japanese islands. Ieyasu led the Eastern Army,
Nobunaga’s brothers were given land and while Ishida Mitsunari lead the Western Army.
likewise all of Nobunaga’s generals, but there An enormous battle occurred around the small
were some truly unhappy faces among them, village of Sekigahara in Mino province on
and this discord would soon culminate in September 15 of 1600.
armed actions. The first one out was Shibata Ieyasu won and he established his administra-
Katsuie. He had for several years been an ardent tive center in Edo town (present Tokyo). A final
competitor to Hideyoshi and was constantly last shout from the Sengoku Jidai took place
craving recognition from Nobunaga. Nobunaga in 1614/15 at Ôsaka Castle, but the time of the
on the other hand, seemed to have favored warring states was reaching an end. Toyotomi
Hideyoshi, on all levels. In 1583 the two adversar- Hidetada died inside his Ôsaka, and those who
ies met at Shizugatake in Ômi province. It was survived this debacle joined the new order.
a fierce battle, but Hideyoshi won, and Shibata Ieyasu managed to achieve this last great vic-
died later by his own hand inside his castle of tory before he died on April 14, 1616 – and with
Kitanoshô in Echizen. Shibata was not the only certainty we can say he ended the Sengoku Jidai.
one challenging Hideyoshi over the right to be
the boy’s “guardian”. Takigawa Kazumasa and

LEARN
MORE

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 8

Appendix

8.1 Weapons Tables

Melee Weapons

W E APON INITIATIVE SAVE MOD NOTES

Hand Weapon 1 - -

Additional Hand Weapon 1 - May not use shield

Mixed Weapons 2 - -

Polearms 2 -1 May not use shield

Thrusting Spear 3 - -

Cavalry Long Spear 3 - May not use shield

Pike 4 - May not use shield, counts as hand weapon in loose order

Heavy Weapons 1 -2 May not use shield

Missile Weapons

RANGE
MISSILE W E APON SAVE MOD NOTES
(CLOSE/LONG)

War Bow 8”/20” 0 up to 4”, then +1 Shoot

War Bow (mounted) 4”/16” 0 up to2”, then +1 Mounted shooting

Bow 8”/16” +1 Shoot

Sling 8”/12” 0 up to 4”, then +1 Shoot

Arquebus 8”/16” -1 up to 8”, then 0 Shoot(+0), Reload(2)

Crossbow 8”/16” 0 up to 6”, then +1 Shoot(+0), Reload(1)

Repeating Crossbow 6”/10” +1 Shoot(+0), Reload special

Early Firearms 8”/12” -1 up to 6”, then 0 Shoot(+0), Reload(2)

Grenades 6”/- -1 Shoot, Special to-hit table

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 8.2 Point System
It is possible for some players to be interested in we pay special attention to accurately reflect
experimenting with their own interpretation of historical characteristics while ensuring that
troop types or want to explore periods that are the total point cost and effectiveness of soldiers
close to the one reflected in our army lists but is comparable across lists, simply adding points
that are not included in this book. For example, would not ensure balance.
trying the Geimpei War or the Mongol Invasion Our game is designed to satisfy both the com-
of Japan, etc. We are happy to provide the point petitive player and the historical gamer and so
system for those of you attempting this. sometimes some troops that were not as effec-
Note that no point system is perfect and to try tive as others are included because they were in
to use it to create optimized troops should not use at the time and the skillful general will find
be the purpose of its use. When we develop the a way to use them effective. Only a poor crafts-
lists, we aim to provide balanced forces. It is pos- man blames their tools.
sible that some traits or effects are more efficient
when combined in a certain manner and hence

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

 Troop Training

T R AINING COMBAT RANGED GRIT POINTS

Inexperienced 5+ 5+ 5+ 5

Raw 5+ 5+ 4+ 7

Untrained 4+ 5+ 5+ 7

Trained 4+ 5+ 4+ 9

Hardened 4+ 5+ 3+ 11

Seasoned 3+ 5+ 4+ 11

Veteran Melee 3+ 5+ 3+ 13

Veteran Missile 4+ 4+ 3+ 13

Armor and Equipment Traits

EQUIPMENT POINTS W E APON POINTS

Shield 1 Independent 7

Pavise 2 Mounted 4

Partial Armor 2 Allies 0

Full Armor 3 Fickle -1

Enclosed Armor 5 All other traits 1

Make armor improved 1

Weapons

W E APON POINTS

Hand Weapon, Additional Hand Weapon 0

Thrusting Spear, Cavalry Long Spear, Mixed Weapons, Pike 1

Bow, Heavy Weapons, Polearms, Sling, Early Firearms 2

Repeating Crossbow, Crossbow, Arquebus, War Bow 3

Grenades 8

Hwacha 58

Light Cannon 64

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

 Clash of Spears is a fast-paced
wargame for skirmishes in
ancient times

And winner of the Wargames

Illustrated Best Game Award
for 2020
It was designed to be fast and intuitive while
providing a realistic feel, tactical depth, and
high impact decision making. The game rep-
resents small actions where the use of terrain,
troop specialization and combinations of arms
can lead the army to victor y.

LEARN MORE AT:

cla shof sp e ar s.com

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

 Alvaro and his son enjoy an afternoon with Francisco Erize Senior while
playtesting CLASH of Katanas, Buenos Aires 2020

CREDITS
CLASH of Katanas, a companion to CLASH of Terrain: Things From The Basement, Brandon
Spears by Francisco & Alvaro Erize. Heath Helms, and Plast Craft Games

Codeveloper: Nicholas Bogart Maps of Japan by Ignacio Martinez Parada

Sengoku Jidai, the time of the warring states: is a Thanks: Special thanks to Nicholas DeLaune, creator
historical overview of Sengoku Japan by Terge Solum. of The Shogunate youtube channel, easily the best
We recommend his series of books to learn more online resource to learn about the history of Japan,
about the period. sagaofthesamurai.no for creating a series of videos to present each of the
major Samurai Clans.
Cover Art: Peter Dennis
youtube.com/c/TheShogunate
Interior Art: Giuseppe Rava, Carmen Cerra,
Also thanks to Matt Okahara from the Matsumoto
and Emilio Camarena
Gun Corps for contributing with his videos and
Layout: Greg Horton, electi-studio.com knowledge on Samurai gunnery. GunSamurai.com

Photography: Francisco Erize and Zenit Miniatures Thanks to Brian Bradford, author of the Killer
Katanas rules, for providing his insights and learning
Rules contributions by: Nicholas Bogart, Diego from his experience writing what has been one of the
Spallatti and his Chaos Ally Contingent, Javier Leiva y iconic set of rules for Samurai Wargames.
Rafael Bartolome
This book is dedicated to our father, Francisco Erize
Proof reading: Diego Spallati, Nicholas Bogart, Senior, who initiated us in this fantastic hobby that
Stephen Farthing, and too many Kickstarter backers is wargaming and who unfortunately passed away
Historical consulting: Terje Solum, Nicholas before he could see this book published.
DeLaune, Matt Okahara

Miniatures belong to the authors’ collection and

were painted by La Flecha Negra, AW Miniatures,
Chris McDonald, Holt Minaiture Painting, Rufus
DeVane and Pierre Deyris

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)

Максим Хмара (Order #35205944)