Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan brings 16th-century feudal Japan to life through epic combat reenactments | Netflix

In 1876, Japan banned samurai from carrying swords in public — a clear end to their era. For centuries they had symbolized Japan’s spirit; modernization took away their role and identity. Saigō Takamori, a respected general, refused to accept this change and became known as the last samurai. Angry at rapid westernization, he trained hundreds of loyal followers at his private academy, preparing for conflict. In 1877 his rebellion began. His men, using traditional weapons, faced a modern imperial