Female Samurai Warriors! Don't be fooled by the daintiness of Japanese women.
While the word “samurai” is a strictly masculine term, female warriors have existed in Japan since as early as 200 AD.
Known as “Onna-Bugeisha” (literally meaning “woman warrior&rdquo, these women were trained in martial arts and strategy, and fought alongside the samurai to defend their homes, families and honour.
Centuries before the rise of the samurai class in the 12th century, onna-bugeisha were acknowledged to be every bit as strong, deadly and fearless as their male counterparts.
Here are 10 facts about the onna-bugeisha. Read on.
The traditional naginata skills survive to this day.