Media Report

Introduced in the media coverage such as newspaper, magazines, and Japan Broadcasting co.(NHK).

the star title

The Star

NHKBS2 May 8th(Sat)8:00 pm

The hosts Miki Maya and Nagai (NHK anchor) unveil the secrets of and go behind the stories of the hottest stars in Japan. Their friends, enthusiastic fans, and family members meet to talk and bring us a spectacular show.

Vol. 4 Guest [Kansai Yamamoto]

The current phenomenon of social upheaval in Japan is one where the rebellious have come to reject traditional notions of Japanese culture.

One of the leaders in Contemporary Japanese fashion, He is best known for his 1970s work which is known for it’s colorful art and designs. He continues to produce exciting shows with many of today’s biggest celebrities. Today we will find out about his fascination with Kachu (Samurai Armor) and discover the secrets of his vitality by studying his brain. [quoted from The Star website]

tateki morisaki

[Excerpted from the program contents.]

The Star

Date Masamune Armor.

Kansai:I think the word ‘DATE-MONO"originated from the style of his troops. (Masamune's troops were famous for being flashy.)

Miki:What does this moon on the helmet represent?

Morisaki:This is called Maetate, which is a decorative piece on the front of a helmet. This crescent Maetate was worn by the head of the Date family. Another symbolic item besides the crescent Maetate was the Hata. The head of the family usually held a Hata, a small flag or banner with a solar disk in the center. The elements of the sun and moon represent a Mandala. Their powerful belief in Dainichi Nyorai (The central buddha figure in the mandala ) can be imagined.

The Star

Honda Tadakatsu Armor.

Nagai:The helmet is very unique.

Miki:It is a deer, isn’t it?

Morisaki:Deer were considered guides and messengers to the gods. (Gods were believed to dwell in deer. )

Miki:The ornament is gorgeous as well.

Morisaki:As you know, that is Juzu (prayer beads). This represents god’s blessing. Samurai Armor reflects a mixture of Shintoism and Buddhism.

The Star

Ii Naomasa armor

Miki:I’d think this would attract attention in a battle.

Morisaki:He was known as a 'Red Devil' for his fighting spirit and bravery. Red would be the most noticeable color on battlefields.
The Ii Family carried all red flags and armor. The units Ii commanded on the battlefield were notable for being outfitted almost completely in blood-red armour for the psychological impact, as if the roaring flames were surging ahead.

The Star

Nagai:What did Samurai armor represent to the Samurai?

Morisaki:Facing enemies on the battlefield was a do-or-die situation.
It was also where they could show how strong they were and how dedicated they were to their lord. The Yoroi protected their lives. Because of this only the finest Yoroi would do. This level of perfection is reflected in the craftsmanship of the armor. Samurai armor represented the beliefs of samurai such as, faith, passionate intensity, and admiration.

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