The First Two Shogunates: Kamakura and Ashikaga/ Muromachi
Japanese history is unusual. In the sense that for most parts of it, the supreme leader wasn’t the Emperor but military dictators known as Shoguns (将軍).
These powerful de-facto rulers wielded absolute power across all the provinces and controlled even the Emperor. What’s exceptionally curious is also the fact that unlike most such regimes, Shoguns usually co-existed peacefully with their emperors. They are even nominally appointed in official ceremonies.
Historically, the first Japanese shogunate began in 1192 in Kamakura after the famous victory of the Minamoto Clan (源氏) over the Taira Clan (平氏). This lasted for around 150 years, was full of strife, and ended in 1338 when General Ashikaga Takauji seized absolute power.
In comparison, the Ashikaga Shogunate (足利幕府) was relatively more resilient and managed to last till 1573. As the Ashikaga Shoguns established their base of control in the Muromachi district of Kyoto, their era came to be known as the Muromachi era (室町時代) of Japanese History. This is versus the previous Kamakura era.
PS: If you’re interested in the history of the Minamoto Clan, you might like to check out games like Genji, Genpei Touma Den, etc.
Toukiden Kiwami Travel Itinerary 2: The Age of Honor
Within the game, Toukiden Kiwami describes the Age of Honor as an amalgamation of the Kamakura and Muromachi eras. The battleground itself has a very rustic feel, with overgrown trees and shrubbery everywhere.
Compared to the Age of Grace, there are also fewer period-distinctive structures, although one of Japan’s most recognizable landmarks does make an appearance.
Before All Else …
I’m proud to be your guide again!
Real-Life References
The magnificent Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion. This World Heritage Site once belonged to a powerful statesman, before bought by Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as a retirement home. The current structure is a reconstruction. Sadly, the original was burned down in 1950.Itsukushima shrine of Miyajima Island. Another Japanese World Heritage Site, the current structure was constructed in the 16th century with designs based on one from 1168 i.e. Just before the Kamakura Era.The symbolic Great Torii, or Shinto gate, of Miyajima Island. A UNESCO site together with Itsukushima shrine, this is one of the top three views of Japan. (When at high tide and floating on the water, that is)
Toukiden Kiwami – The Age of Honor Screenshots
Our starting area. Do you not feel a deep sense of spirituality? From an age full of valiant samurais and courageous generals?A typical samurai’s house. This might not look like much, dear travellers, but in historical Japan, it was considered luxurious.Before we continue our tour in the Age of Honor, your lodgings for this evening. Do request for paper screens if the night gets too windy for you.Our Battle of Dan-no-Ura diorama! Victory in this decisive naval battle led to Minamoto no Yoritomo becoming the first Shogun, thereafter establishing the first of Japan’s shogunates.I’m embarrassed to say this. I’m not too sure why such an elaborate shrine was built here. Maybe it’s to appease angry samurai spirits? We do get a lot of strange tortoises and crabs here.Plenty of spectacular mountainside scenery in this battleground, yes? Please mind your step when taking pictures.Don’t forget to check out our many photo spots!Ladies and gentlemen, our star attraction. The … original Golden Pavilion. It’s still in the midst of restoration, so please bear with us during your selfie-taking.One of the many mythical stones in the Age of Honor. Pray at them for a dash of good luck!Also, our … original Golden Pavilion sometimes experiences interesting plant growth around it. These are most often seen during the evening.Magical sunsets can be experienced at our fringe areas.Lastly, be sure to say hello to our many guardians. Not only do they watch over your safety, they are useful sources of travel information.
More Real-Life Japan References
A Japanese Ni-O Guardian statue. More commonly associated with Nara, the most famous pair at Tōdai-ji was created during the early Kamakura Shogunate.Historical painting of the Battle of Dan-no-Ura. As mentioned above, this naval battle was instrumental in the formation of Shogunates in Japanese history.
Up next, Japan’s tumultuous Warring States Period! Experienced through Toukiden Kiwami’s Age of War!
If you’re thinking of visiting Kamakura, Kyoto, or other shogunate-related locations in Japan, this site is easily the best guide.
If you enjoyed this tour of historical Japan, consider getting a copy of Toukiden Kiwami!
Geek, gamer, writer, movie lover, photographer, and occasional graphic artist. I like to consider myself a one-stop content creator of sorts. But the truth is, I obsess over too many hobbies.
