Japanology Plus: Season 2022, Episode 25

2022 - 25: The Samurai of the Sea: Pirates or Protectors?

Around 500 years ago, sea traffic in the Seto Inland Sea was monitored and controlled by a group called the "Murakami Kaizoku." The word "kaizoku" translates to "pirates," but these seafarers weren't thieves; they actually helped to keep the area safe. In the first of two episodes about the Murakami Kaizoku, museum curator Tanaka Ken tells us about their activities, and takes us to a former kaizoku stronghold. We learn about their incredible seamanship, and their cultural sensibilities.