Top 10 Best Samurai Characters In One Piece

Summary

Oden’s adventurous journey and wild personality make him a legendary and fascinating character.
Characters like Inuarashi, Ashura Doji, and Kawamatsu showcase the strength and diversity of the samurai in One Piece.
Izo’s unique fighting style, backstory, and sacrifice make him a memorable and intriguing samurai.

Although samurais don’t play a significant role in the One Piece story until much later, there are numerous characters who adhere to the samurai way that fans admire for various personal reasons. Most samurais originate from the land of Wano, but they all share a common trait – proficiency with a sword, though this isn’t always a prerequisite for earning the title.

Throughout the narrative of One Piece, the samurai collectively have faced numerous trials and tribulations, leading many of them to feel compelled to demonstrate their worth. They are prepared to risk everything in an attempt to restore Wano to its past splendor. On occasion, these characters undergo growth and participate in grand battles, enhancing their allure and making them stand out as unique entities.

8. Inuarashi

Inuarashi Stands Out For His Eyecatching Design And Fascinating Backstory

First Appearance: Episode 756

Inuarashi, a character from the Zou arc, is not just any man; he’s actually a Mink with a veil of mystery surrounding him. Alongside his impulsive comrade Nekomomushi, he shares leadership in the Mokomo Dukedom. However, it’s not only his striking and imaginative appearance that captivates us, but also his somber and composed demeanor. Given his battle-hardened past, he swiftly stands out as one of the most intriguing characters to emerge from the Zou arc.

After the flashback featuring Oden is shown, viewers will gain understanding about how Inuarashi evolved into such a formidable samurai and why his allegiance to the samurai-Mink alliance remains unwavering. Despite Inuarashi not receiving as much focus in the Wano storyline compared to other samurai characters, he is still deeply cherished by many fans.

7. Ashura Doji

The Strongest Monster In Kuri Steals Every Scene He’s In With His Infectious Charisma And Overwhelming Power

First Appearance: Episode 910

Ashura Doji, with his intimidating size and threatening demeanor, is unmistakably a formidable samurai. Known earlier as “The Monster of Kuri,” Ashura Doji would swear loyalty to Oden following their battle, where Oden proved himself the future hero of Wano. Despite this, he was among the Scabbards who didn’t get transported 20 years ahead when Oden died prematurely.

By the story’s progression, Ashura Doji has evolved into an awe-inspiringly powerful warrior, so formidable that Kin’emon frequently emphasizes their need to enlist him for any chance of executing the daring assault on Onigashima. Ashura Doji’s remarkable strength and captivating charm make him an engaging character to behold—particularly when he displays his swordsmanship against formidable adversaries.

6. Kawamatsu

Kawamatsu Shows That Anyone, Regardless Of Background, Can Become A Samurai

First Appearance: Episode 910

Landing ashore in Wano as a Fishman alongside his mother, Kawamatsu initially encountered hostility from the locals who tied him up and menaced him with death threats. However, just when it seemed all hope was lost, Oden intervened at the last moment to rescue the young kappa. Following this life-saving act, Kawamatsu joined forces with Oden and embarked on an exhilarating journey. During this adventure, he transformed himself into a valiant and fearless samurai, as well as a champion for the defenseless.

As protector of Hiyori, Kawamatsu transitions into a nurturing figure towards the young girl, often acting to keep her out of harm’s way, revealing an unexpected tender side that contrasts sharply with his typically stern and disciplined samurai demeanor. Simultaneously, upon entering Udon Prison, Kawamatsu exudes an undeniable aura of badassery, leaving the guards whispering about him as if he were a terrifying beast, a fearsome figure that haunts nightmares.

5. Denjiro

Denjiro’s Mysterious Persona And Exuberant Fighting Style Result In A Very Intriguing Character

First Appearance: Episode 909

In the Wano arc, Denjiro appears quite early, but not under that name at first; instead, he is known as Kyoshiro, a samurai who seemed shifty and appeared loyal to the cruel shogun of Wano, Orochi. This Orochi was ready to slash down anyone who even glanced at him or his master inappropriately. However, from the very start, there was an air of mystery about Kyoshiro; his anti-hero persona made him one of the most intriguing new characters introduced during the first part of Wano.

Before Denjiro unveiled his true identity as one of Oden’s faithful retainers, the Scabbards, he was amassing power and waiting for the right moment to support Kin’emon and the others covertly. Among the Scabbards, Denjiro receives considerable attention due to his compelling personal journey and significant role in the narrative.

4. Izo

Izo’s Unique Fighting Style And Multiple Allegiances Make Him A Very Interesting Samurai

First Appearance: Episode 461

Initially, it wasn’t explicit that Izo was a samurai, but during the Marineford War, he made his debut, playing a crucial role in the attempt to save Ace from execution. What sets Izo apart among other samurai is his unconventional method of combat – instead of wielding a sword, he employs two lethal hand cannons. This allows him to swiftly maneuver across battlefields, showcasing remarkable speed and agility.

In the course of the Wano arc, Izo reappeared dramatically, to such an extent that he gave up his life to hold off CP-0, thus enabling Kin’emon and the other samurai to successfully carry out their raid and ultimately defeat Kaido. If it hadn’t been for Izo’s timely arrival, the raid could have ended disastrously. With his intriguing history and flamboyant fighting style, he stands out as a highly memorable character within the series.

3. Shimotsuki Ryuma

A Tough Opponent For Zoro Who Remains Relevant To The Story Despite Being Long Gone

First Appearance: Episode 342

Initially, Ryuma seems to show up early in the narrative during the voyage on Thriller Bark, but he’s not his typical self – he’s merely a decayed corpse controlled by Gecko Moria for use in his zombie legion. Known as a legendary samurai from Wano, Zoro recognizes Ryuma’s swordsmanship prowess, leading to an incredibly intense sword fight between the two when they eventually meet on the battlefield.

Since Ryuma was introduced long before the story delved into Wano, he sparked much discussion and debate among the fanbase for quite some time. Even when the crew eventually reached Wano, Ryuma’s impact on the world remained apparent, and as an inspiration to Zoro, many fans have grown to deeply respect him.

2. Kozuki Oden

The Legendary Oden Has Been On A Truly Exciting Adventure That Many Pirates Can Only Dream Of

First Appearance: Episode 960

In the world of Wano, Kozuki Oden is frequently referenced before his appearance, yet when his backstory unfolds, it certainly meets expectations. Initially portrayed as a womanizer and rebellious figure, Oden’s ambition to open Wano’s borders leads him on an extraordinary adventure. This journey saw him sail the high seas not only with Whitebeard’s crew but also alongside Gol D. Roger himself. Remarkably, he was even present when their team successfully found the fabled treasure known as One Piece.

Although Oden has performed remarkable deeds, his character is equally engaging as he navigates through a series of chaotic situations due to his impulsive and powerful nature. As a legendary samurai, he often finds himself in precarious predicaments. In his last moments, he demonstrated unwavering loyalty towards the Red Scabbards and his values by shielding them from boiling oil while sacrificing himself. Despite the Red Scabbards’ excessive praise before Oden was fully introduced, a single flashback allowed fans to comprehend why the brave and valiant hero is fondly remembered, earning him a place among One Piece‘s most intriguing characters whose impactful legacy will persist.

1. Kin’emon

From Bumbling Coward To Leader Of The Samurai, Kin’emon Has Been On Quite The Journey

First Appearance: Episode 580

Initially, when Kin’emon meets Luffy and his group on Punk Hazard, he gives an impression of being a bumbling, detached older man who seems to have stumbled onto the island by chance. However, what isn’t immediately apparent is that Kin’emon was once a loyal companion of Kozuki Oden. He was transported twenty years into the future intentionally, in order to liberate Wano from Kaido’s control and restore Momonosuke to his rightful position as ruler. Given that Kin’emon begins the story with minimal resources to save his homeland of Wano, it is inspiring to watch him persevere and develop as a character, especially as he gains more allies along the way.

When the assault on Onigashima commences, Kin’emon, renowned for his bravery, has already earned a place among the samurai leaders. He valiantly battles against Kaido’s Beast Pirates. Among all the samurai, Kin’emon stands out as one of the most compelling characters, and he leaves a lasting impression as a temporary member of the Straw Hat crew throughout the series.

2025-04-04 12:26