If You Loved 'Shogun', These 5 Samurai Series Are Your Next Obsession, Ranked by IMDb

Shogun became a true landmark in television. Its epic saga of feudal Japan, political intrigue, honor, and war captivated millions of viewers worldwide.

However, the samurai drama genre is far richer and more diverse. Stories of warriors following the code of Bushido continue to inspire filmmakers worldwide, from Japanese shows to modern anime series.

5. 'The Trusted Confidant', 2007

IMDb Score: 7.6/10

Yamamoto Kansuke contracted smallpox as a child, which left him blind in one eye and with a limp. Despite this, he dreamed of becoming a samurai.

By chance, he entered the service of the influential daimyo Takeda Shingen. Thanks to his intelligence and strategic talent, Yamamoto helped expand the Takeda clan's holdings and strengthen its influence.

The plot is based on real events from the Sengoku period, one of the most turbulent periods in Japanese history. The show perfectly captures everyday life in Japan during that time, including the elaborate costumes worn by samurais.

4. 'Miyamoto Musashi', 2014

IMDb Score: 7.7/10

The young, hotheaded warrior Musashi Miyamoto and his friend Matahachi leave their home village to take part in the Battle of Sekigahara. Matahachi dies during the battle.

Devastated by grief, Musashi meets the wandering monk Takuan. From that moment on, his life changes and he embarks on a journey to become a great samurai master.

The plot is based on the life of Miyamoto Musashi, one of Japan's most renowned swordsmen. Despite his larger-than-life persona, the creators do not portray Musashi as an invincible superhero but rather as a man with inner conflicts and weaknesses.

3. 'Sanadamaru', 2016

IMDb Score: 7.8/10

The series follows the life of the samurai, Sanada Yukimura. Spanning several decades of Japanese history, it depicts the transition from internecine wars to the unification of the country under the Tokugawa shogunate.

The main character rises from the son of a provincial daimyo to become a legendary commander who heroically defended Osaka Castle.

The series places a strong focus on the clan's struggle to confront its enemies in war-torn Japan. The show delves into the complexities of military affairs, tactics, and negotiation.

2. 'Samurai Jack', 2001-2017

IMDb Score: 8.5/10

The evil demon Aku sends the noble samurai, Jack, into the distant future. Now, Jack must find his way home while traveling through a world where humans coexist with robots, aliens, and monsters.

The series is memorable for its spectacular sword fights and unique visual style. Ten years after the show's conclusion, the final season aired, giving the story a more mature, darker narrative.

1. 'Blue Eye Samurai', 2023-...

IMDb Score: 8.7/10

The story is set in Edo-period Japan, a time when society divided everyone into insiders and outsiders. Mizu stands out from childhood due to her unusually blue eyes.

Because of this, she is treated with hostility by those around her, who consider her a monster. Dedicating herself to swordsmanship, Mizu embarks on a dangerous journey to find and kill those responsible for her suffering.

Blue Eye Samurai became one of Netflix's biggest hits. The series quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique visual style and mature plot featuring plenty of violence, gore, blood, and sensual eroticism.