1) Sasaki Kojiro
Another legendary samurai born in the Sengoku period, Sasaki Kojiro is regarded as one of the most skilled swordsmen to have ever lived. Due to missing records, it’s unclear exactly how he started, though we know that he was trained in many styles of fighting.
While he is generally regarded as a master of the Chujo-ryu school, he was equally good with the nodachi, a longer version of the traditional katana. It’s said that despite its heavier frame, Kohiro was able to wield the nodachi with incredible speed and swiftness.
He was known for his distinct technique compared to other samurai of his era, which he perfected sometime in the year 1605. It consisted of a swift downward strike, followed by a rapid upward motion for maximum effect.
His skill is often downplayed, as he is also remembered for his legendary defeat against another master of the sword, Miyamoto Musashi. In addition to the sword, Sasaki was quite good with other weapons as well, as is clear from his victory against three enemies at the same time with just a war fan.
