Top 10 Deadliest Anime Samurai

Top 10 Anime Samurai

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Look no further than these fine examples of Bushido practitioners. Welcome to WatchMojo.com and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Anime Samurai. For this list, we’re looking at the best examples of the olden day Japanese warriors represented in Japanese Anime. We should be sure to note that just because they wield a sword like Bleach’s Ichigo, it doesn’t automatically make them a Samurai. Unfortunately, this also excludes Shichika Yasuri from Katanagatari as his fighting style leaves him incapable of wielding a traditional Japanese weapon.

“Shaman King” (2001-02) Amidamaru died over 600 years ago during the Miromachi period. He now serves as the ghost partner of potential Shaman King, Yoh Asakura. In the past, he gained quite the reputation as the “Devil Samurai”. While he may be a ferocious fighter, Amidamaru is best known for his steadfast loyalty, most notably to his lifelong friendship with sword smith, Mosuke, who created Amidamaru’s trusted blade, Harusame. One of his more admirable actions in life is choosing his loyalty to his best friend over his Damiyo, which ended in his death. Even in death, Amidamaru’s devotion is unshakeable.

#9: Kin'emon of Foxfire

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“One Piece” (1999-) Normal is something of a rarity in the world of One Piece. Why should the appearance of a Samurai warrior be any different? Kin’emon starts off as a disembodied warrior whose appendages were seeking to put themselves back together. Not surprisingly, Kin’emon is a pretty decent fighter when he’s in one…piece. Using a one or two sword style, he is able to match blows with the best of Luffy’s Straw Hat Pirates Crew. His samurai pride doesn’t stop him from enjoying the “assets” of a beautiful woman, or communicating via farts.

“Naruto Shippuden” (2007-) This grizzled old guy is the kind of man all Samurai should seek to be. Mifune is a General from the Land of Iron. He seems to be made out of the stuff too. He’s spry, fearless and a humble warrior even in the heat of battle. Behind the calm demeanor is a hardened veteran, Mifune is also a man of peace and harmony. Old age may creep in to fog with his memory. But once the fighting starts, Mifune can recall battle tactics and read opponents like a psychic. The noble and unwavering Mifune is an example of Samurai worthy of respect.

“Samurai 7” (2004) Anyone can be a Samurai if they have the heart and determination for it. Such is the case with Kikuchiyo, the robot member of the Samurai 7. While not born into a Samurai family, Kikuchiyo has always wanted to help others and became a Samurai to do so. Hot tempered and prone to getting into battles, Kikuchiyo may seem like a powder keg at times. His clumsiness offsets this, giving off the impression of a bumbling oaf. A strong heart lies underneath his metal exterior and Kikuchiyo is always ready to fight for anyone in need of protecting. Did we mention his sword is also a chainsaw, wont see that again on this list.

“Afro Samurai” (2007) He’s a samurai with an afro – go figure. Afro is a man of few words. Ever since his father was killed in a duel, he’s has been practicing the ways of the sword for vengeance. He is as deadly with a blade as his cold, emotionless stare would suggest. Afro’s duels usually end up being pretty bloody but that never phases his unwavering resolve to stick to his mission, no matter what. Plus, he happens to be voiced by Samuel L. Jackson…and that alone adds one hundred badass points to this Samurai warrior.

“Sengoku Basara: Samurai Kings” (2009-10) Based on the legendary Samurai from Japanese history, Date Masamune is an exceptional fighter. Though he usually wields one Katana, he is shown to be able to fight with at least six blades at once, a technique known as “The Claws of the Dragon”. Often a little too confident in his abilities, Date is still a well-revered leader of his troops during the Sengoku era. His presence sends fear into the hearts of his enemies and inspires his troops to give their all. We’re pretty sure the real Date Masamune was nothing like this guy, but we can hope.

“Sword of the Stranger” (2007) Going by the alias “No Name” Nanashi is a Ronin haunted by a terrible past that has caused him to swear off drawing his sword again. This changes when he crosses paths with a runaway named Kotaro and agrees to be his bodyguard. As a warrior who has lost his way, Nanashi’s story is a deep tragedy and it’s hard to watch a Samurai in this state. During his time with Kotaro, however, Nanashi finds a new reason to fight. There’s nothing better than seeing a weary Samurai get a second chance at life.

#3: Mugen

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“Samurai Champloo” (2004-05) Of all the characters on our list, Mugen looks the least likely to be a samurai. It could be because of the hair, or the wild and unorthodox fighting style. Even his partner Jin has to wonder why Mugen is so damn skilled. Well underneath the bad boy surface is the soul of a warrior who truly embodies the Bushido code. Insignificant or otherwise, Mugen always gives his all and seeks perfection in any task he sets his mind too. Just look at the way he fights, must’ve taken him years to get those moves down. Samurai have never looked so cool.

“Gintama” (2006-) As the main protagonist of the series, Gintoki is a samurai living in an era where they are no longer needed. Unable to continue his profession, Gintoki decided to become a freelance Samurai, taking on odd jobs wherever they may be. You wouldn’t know Gintoki was a legendary warrior at first glance. He’s childish, kind of detached and has a soft spot for shonen Manga. Past that, Gintoki is still a warrior following his own code: to protect anyone and everyone he can. Besides his moments of action, using his trusty Bokudo, Gintoki is one of the most laid back, carefree Samurai you’ll ever meet. Before we reveal our top pick, here are a few Honorable Mentions: Assassin (Sasaki Kojirou) “Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works” (2014-15) Nobunaga Hazama “Hunter X Hunter” (2011-14) Goemon Ishikawa XIII “Lupin III Franchise” (1971-) Mifune “Soul Eater” (2008-09)

#1: Kenshin Himura

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“Rurouni Kenshin” (1996-98) Don’t let the cheerful smile fool you. Kenshin may look harmless and bumbling. Deep down, however, is the ultimate Samuari killing machine. Kenshin once fought against the Shogunate during the Bakumatsu era, putting his Hiten Mitsurigu Style swordplay to deadly use. Several tragedies drove Kenshin to become a wandering Samurai, vowing to never kill again and taking a reverse blade sword to honor that vow. Even with this eternal promise, Kenshin is still an amazing warrior and is able to disable enemies without spilling a drop of blood. Just don’t push him too far. When his Battosai side comes out, Kenshin is the deadliest man alive. Do you agree with our list? Which character do you think is the best Samurai in Anime? For more honor bound Top 10’s published daily, be sure to subscribe to WatchMojo.com.