1. Shō Taishō (少大将)
Translation: "Young General"
Meaning: A title given to a young but highly skilled military leader, often used in samurai-era contexts to describe a commander with exceptional talent despite their youth.
2. Shōgun (将軍)
Translation: "Military Commander" / "General"
Meaning: The highest-ranking military leader in feudal Japan, essentially acting as the ruler of the country while the emperor remained a symbolic figure. The shogunate was a system of government controlled by the shōgun and his retainers.
3. Ō-Yoroi (大鎧)
Translation: "Great Armor"
Meaning: A large and heavily plated samurai armor set, typically worn by high-ranking warriors or generals. It was most common during the Heian and early Kamakura periods, offering superior protection and an imposing presence on the battlefield.
4. Sōmen Mask (面頬 / 面)
Translation: "Face Mask"
Meaning: A metal or lacquered mask covering the face, often used by samurai to protect themselves in battle while also striking fear into enemies. It could cover either the whole face or just the lower half.
5. Kabuto (兜)
Translation: "Helmet"
Meaning: The traditional helmet worn by samurai, often adorned with elaborate decorations, crests, or horns to signify rank and instill fear in opponents.
6. Ashigaru (足軽)
Translation: "Light Foot"
Meaning: The foot soldiers of feudal Japan, typically made up of commoners who served under samurai. They were lightly armored and played key roles in large-scale battles, often using spears, bows, or matchlock firearms.
7. Samurai (侍)
Translation: "Servant" or "One Who Serves"
Meaning: The warrior class of feudal Japan, serving under lords (daimyō) and following the Bushidō (Way of the Warrior). Samurai were both elite warriors and members of the ruling class, often acting as military leaders and administrators.
8. Taishō (大将)
Translation: "Great General"
Meaning: A high-ranking military commander in feudal Japan, responsible for leading large armies. Taishō were often experienced and older generals who oversaw battlefield strategy and troop movements. They ranked above Shō Taishō (少大将) and samurai, making them one of the highest military authorities under a Daimyō or Shōgun.