Born in 1584 during Japan’s turbulent Sengoku era, Miyamoto Musashi rose from obscure beginnings to become the nation’s most celebrated swordsman. By his own count, he fought over 60 duels without defeat, many against the finest warriors of his age. Musashi rejected rigid fighting forms, favoring adaptability and psychological warfare. He often arrived late to duels to unnerve opponents. His most famous victory came in 1612 against Sasaki Kojirō, a master of the “swallow cut.” Musashi carved a w