In feudal Japan, the swordsman Shinmen Takezo is a violent and impulsive young man, known for his fearsome fighting skills and his ruthless ambition. After a brutal battle that leaves many dead, Takezo is forced to flee his village, leaving behind his past and adopting the name Miyamoto Musashi.

Haunted by the ghosts of his victims, Musashi embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. He encounters a variety of characters, from wise monks to skilled swordsmen, who teach him valuable lessons about life, death, and the nature of true strength.

As Musashi grows in wisdom and skill, he faces off against some of the most formidable swordsmen in Japan, including the legendary Sasaki Kojiro. Through his duels, Musashi gains a deeper understanding of the way of the sword, and he begins to realize that true strength comes not from brute force but from inner peace and harmony.

Vagabond is a complex and thought-provoking manga that explores themes of violence, redemption, and the pursuit of self-mastery. It is a must-read for fans of samurai stories and anyone interested in the human condition.

Genres: Action, Drama, Mature, Seinen

Release Date: 1998 – Ongoing

Author: Inoue Takehiko

Rating: 4.9/5