Takeda Shingen: The Warring States Warlord of Yamanashi and Our Samurai Rings

Takeda Shingen: The Warring States Warlord of Yamanashi and Our Samurai Rings
The popular samurai rings at L&Co.TOKYO have been designed with the inspiration of Takeda Shingen, the mightiest warlord of the Warring States period. Yamanashi Prefecture, where L&Co.'s headquarters are located, was once ruled by Takeda Shingen, and he continues to be cherished by many residents of the region. In this article, we will introduce his fascinating history along with our collection of samurai rings.


Takeda Shingen as a Sengoku Warlord and a Politician

Takeda Shingen as a Sengoku Warlord

Takeda Shingen is one of the most renowned warlords in Japan during the Sengoku period. Born into the Takeda clan in 1521, who were powerful rulers in Kai Province (present-day Yamanashi Prefecture), he possessed exceptional military prowess and achieved numerous accomplishments. Among them, the Battle of Kawanakajima against Uesugi Kenshin is particularly famous in Japanese history and is still passed down as a legendary tale. Although Takeda Shingen passed away in 1573 due to illness, his achievements and persona continue to be depicted in various Japanese movies, dramas, and games.

Takeda Shingen as a Politician

Interestingly, Takeda Shingen displayed remarkable political acumen and gained popular support as a politician. His most significant achievement is considered to be his water management projects. Kai Province, with its mountainous terrain, frequently experienced devastating floods during heavy rainfall. In response, Shingen constructed embankments called Shingentsutsumi, along the rivers to control flooding and also carried out river channel improvements, allowing for the development of new agricultural land. This ambitious project, which took 20 years to complete, continues to benefit the flood control efforts in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, not only during Shingen's era but also in the present 21st century.

Takeda Shingen as a Politician
Shingentsutsumi to prevent river flooding / stock.adobe.com

Tourist Attractions and Events Related to Shingen

Even today, Takeda Shingen remains a beloved figure among the people of Yamanashi Prefecture as a renowned samurai from the Warring States period. Allow us to introduce you to some of the tourist spots and events where you can experience the spirit of Takeda Shingen.

Statue of Takeda Shingen

The statue of Takeda Shingen, located in front of Kofu Station in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a symbol of Kofu City and Yamanashi Prefecture. This statue, which portrays his appearance during the battle of Kawanakajima, captures the dignified and imposing demeanor befitting a warlord of the Sengoku period. Standing at a height of 3.1 meters, the impressive statue becomes even more powerful when viewed from below. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom magnificently around the statue, creating an ideal spot for commemorative photos. It has become a famous landmark that appears in the local weather forecast every time.

Statue of Takeda Shingen
Statue of Shingen in front of Kofu Station / stock.adobe.com


Takeda Shrine

Takeda Shrine (Takeda Jinja) is a shrine located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is situated at the place where Takeda Shingen, Shingen's son Katsutora, and grandson Katsuyori actually lived , and it is widely revered as a shrine dedicated to Takeda Shingen. During spring, the shrine is adorned with blooming cherry blossoms, making it a famous spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The shrine grounds feature historical spots such as the "Treasure Hall," "Warlord Hall," and "Kawanakajima Garden."

Entrance of Takeda Shrine
Entrance of Takeda Shrine / stock.adobe.com


Shingen Festival

The Shingen Festival is a festival dedicated to Takeda Shingen, held annually in April in and around Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. The festival showcases various events and performances that highlight Shingen's political achievements, cultural contributions, and military prowess throughout his life.At the heart of the festival is the Shingen Parade. Over 1,000 participants, dressed in traditional samurai attire, including the portrayal of Shingen himself, form a procession that marches through the city. The parade features individuals representing Shingen, gunnery units, traditional musicians, and battle reenactment groups, providing a vivid reimagining of Shingen's life.


Samurai Rings Inspired by Shingen

L&Co.'s Samurai Rings were originally created as a featured product for the jewelry section of the Shingen Festival. These rings are designed with embedded symbols and words associated with Takeda Shingen.

Takeda Clan Crest

A clan crest is a logo mark that represents a family passed down through generations, and it is said that most Japanese families still have their own crest. The Takeda clan crest is called "Takeda Bishi" (Takeda Diamond), and it can be seen on the helmet of the statue of Shingen and at Takeda Shrine. It is also used in merchandise and goods representing Kofu City, Nirasaki City, and other locations associated with Shingen, as well as being featured in Yamanashi Prefecture's symbol mark.

Takeda Bishi that can be seen at Takeda Shrine
Takeda Bishi that can be seen at Takeda Shrine / stock.adobe.com


Samurai Rings with Takeda Crest Design

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, our Samurai Rings showcase the Takeda Crest prominently, making them a remarkable piece of jewelry for samurai enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Each ring is meticulously designed to capture the essence of Takeda Shingen's legacy, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style.


Silver Samurai Ring with 18karat Gold Emblem | 14-2352


Silver Samurai Kabuto Ring with 18karat Gold Parts | 14-2360


【Semi-Order】Samurai Ring |14-2351


Samurai and the Sword Ring |14-2371



The "Fūrinkazan" Battle Standard

The battle standard of "Fūrinkazan" is widely recognized in association with Takeda Shingen. It bears the phrase "Swift as the Wind, Silent as the Forest, Fierce as Fire, Immovable as a Mountain," which is derived from the ancient Chinese military treatise, Sun Tzu's Art of War. The Takeda cavalry was renowned for their strength and prowess, and the presence of this battle standard had a significant impact on boosting the morale of allies and diminishing the enemy's fighting spirit. The Fūrinkazan battle standard, it is a testament to the indomitable spirit and military prowess that Takeda Shingen and his forces exemplified during the turbulent Sengoku period.

Battle Flag Furinkazan
Battle Flag "Furinkazan" / stock.adobe.com


Samurai Ring with Fūrinkazan Design

Introducing the Samurai Ring with the iconic Fūrinkazan design, inspired by the legendary Takeda Shingen. This exquisite piece of jewelry captures the essence of the famous battle standard and embodies the spirit of the samurai.


Silver Samurai Hexagon Ring |14-2372


Silver Hidden Samurai Ring |14-2361



This article was translated by an AI engine from a Japanese article and reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by editing staff.
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