Miyamoto Musashi, originally named Shinmen Takezō (c. 1584 or 1582? – 13 June 1645), emerged as a legendary Japanese swordsman, strategist, artist, and writer, famed for his distinctive two-sword fighting technique and his unmatched record of 62 duels—unparalleled until then, with Itō Ittōsai next at 33 victories. Known also by the name Miyamoto Bennosuke and his Buddhist title Niten Dōraku, Musashi is revered as a “kensei”, or “sword saint” of Japan. He founded the Niten Ichi-ryū (also called Nito Ichi-ryū) style of swordsmanship, blending strategy and technique into a revolutionary approach. In his later years, Musashi penned “The Book of Five Rings” and “Dokkōdō” (The Path of Aloneness), texts that endure as reflections on martial philosophy and self-discipline.