Bushido: Way of the Samurai

Overview

The NGV is bringing out the big guns — or should we say swords, with Bushido: Way of the Samurai. Featuring a kick-ass collection of Samurai battle armour and weapons as well as calligraphic scrolls, tea utensils and more seemingly domestic items, this new exhibition delves deep into the heart of Medieval and early-modern Japan. It explores the cultural and historical importance of the warriors, but also the men behind the mythologised armour.

The Samurai were prominent representatives of Japan's military nobility and ethics from the 12th Century up until the end of the Edo period in 1868, and have remained an important staple in Japan's history and culture. Samurai virtues and ideas such as self control, respect, duty and courage continue to be celebrated in modern culture and constantly reappear in martial arts, visual and dramatic art.

If you think you know enough about the Samurai culture because you watched that movie about that Samurai who did that thing and Tom Cruise was there then think again. This exhibition has you properly covered.