Exploring the Perfect Historical Connection Between Shogun and This Popular HBO Series

The new historical epic series Shōgun has received high praise since its premiere on February 17, 2024, with a remarkable 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes after just three episodes. Drawing comparisons to the renowned Game of Thrones, Shōgun delves into the historic rise of the Tokugawa shogunate in feudal Japan, rather than a world of fantasy with dragons and White Walkers. You can catch new episodes of Shōgun every Tuesday exclusively on Hulu and FX.

In Shōgun, we follow Lord Yoshii Toranaga, portrayed by Hiroyuki Sanada, as he skillfully navigates the deadly threats posed by the Council of Regents in early 17th century Japan. Worried about Toranaga's potential to establish a new shogunate based on his Minawara clan lineage, which is inspired by the real-life Minomoto clan, the Regents seek to eliminate him. With the assistance of John Blackthorne, modeled after William Adams, the first Western samurai, Lord Toranaga devises a plan to defeat the Regents and bring about a new era in Japan.

Tokyo Vice Chronicles Modern-Day Yakuza Operations & Gang Wars In Tokyo

Ken Watanabe as Hiroto Katagiri from Tokyo Vice Season 2 - Tokyo Vice Chronicles Modern-Day Yakuza Operations & Gang Wars In Tokyo

Tokyo Vice season 2 is currently airing on HBO, filmed and set in Japan. It tells a captivating story focused on the yakuza gangs of Tokyo, with rich character development and plot twists. Despite the time gap between Tokyo Vice and Shōgun, there are cultural and historical connections that make watching both series together an interesting experience. The city of Tokyo plays a major role in both shows, showcasing intense clashes between rival clans vying for power.

In Shōgun, Lord Toranaga aims for Edo, which was Tokyo's former name before it was changed during the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Tokyo Vice, on the other hand, is set in modern-day Tokyo, evolving from a small fishing village into a global metropolis over 400 years after the Tokugawa shogunate era. The yakuza, Japan's mafia, originated during the early years of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1612, shortly after the start of the Edo Period in 1603.

The History Of The Yakuza & Edo Period Origin Explained

Ayumi Tanida as Tozawa From Tokyo Vice Season 2 episode 5 - The History Of The Yakuza & Edo Period Origin Explained

During the time of the Shōgun, the yakuza were categorized as either "tekiya", involved in thievery or illegal trade, or "bakuto", involved in gambling. They were considered the lowest social class in the Edo Period, known for their unique clothing and uncivilized behavior. The bakuto, who were traditionally shirtless to avoid cheating accusations, may have influenced the yakuza's iconic full-body tattoo style.

The hierarchical structure of yakuza gangs evolved similarly to the shogunate. Ironically, the peace maintained by the Tokugawa shogunate for over 260 years indirectly led to the rise of yakuza groups. The stability in Japan during this period made it inevitable for these outsiders to come together, forming gangs like the Chihara-Kai and Tozawa clans depicted in Tokyo Vice. Those familiar with Japanese history can draw parallels between the creation of the Tokugawa shogunate in Shōgun and the influence of yakuza gangs in modern times, as shown in Tokyo Vice.

Shogun & Tokyo Vice Are Currently 2 Of The Best Shows On Television

Toranaga holding his sword during a battle in Shogun episode 3 - Shogun & Tokyo Vice Are Currently 2 Of The Best Shows On Television

While Shōgun and Tokyo Vice belong to different story worlds and are available on different platforms, they make a great pair to watch together. Tokyo Vice already showcases the grandeur and global influence of Tokyo, which is further highlighted by the historical portrayal of the city in Shōgun. Both series incorporate authentic Japanese language and customs, adding to the cultural richness. With impressive Rotten Tomatoes scores of 99% and 92% each, Shōgun and Tokyo Vice are must-watch series in 2024.

Editor's P/S:

The article offers an intriguing and thought-provoking connection between the historical epic "Shōgun" and the modern-day crime drama "Tokyo Vice." By exploring the cultural and historical parallels between the two shows, the writer draws attention to the enduring influence of the past on the present. The juxtaposition of the Tokugawa shogunate era with the contemporary yakuza operations in Tokyo highlights the cyclical nature of power and the resilience of societal structures.

Overall, the article provides a compelling case for watching both "Shōgun" and "Tokyo Vice" together. The combination of these two shows offers a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Japanese history, culture, and society, both past and present. The high Rotten Tomatoes scores and the authentic representation of Japanese language and customs further enhance the viewing experience, making these two series must-watch television in 2024.