Japanese Robin Hood

 

We all know him from popular anime, video games, and films - Ishikawa Goemon, often referred to as the Japanese Robin Hood, is a character who, over the centuries, has become synonymous with rebellion against injustice, symbolizing the fight against corruption and oppression by stealing from the rich and sharing the loot with the poor. His legendary feats, imbued with the spirit of social justice, have made him a hero of folk tales, inspiring numerous works of mass culture. Ishikawa Goemon occupies a place in the Japanese imagination not only as a ready-to-help thief but also as a master ninja whose life was layered with myths and legends.

 

However, behind the romantic facade of stories of heroic deeds lies a much more complex and controversial image of this character. Not everyone realizes that the story of Goemon Ishikawa is also a tale of cruelty, aggression, and personal tragedies that cast a shadow over his legendary status. Sometimes described as a man of tempestuous temperament, Goemon did not shy away from brutality, and his methods and motivations were far from the altruistic ideals attributed to him in later interpretations.

 

This article aims to uncover the lesser-known side of Ishikawa Goemon, perhaps less beautiful but certainly more authentic, vivid, and interesting. We will check the stories (both confirmed and legendary) about him to see who Goemon Ishikawa really was beneath the facade of a simple thief with a golden heart. We will trace his path from his early years, through controversial choices, to the dramatic and tragic end that cemented his figure in Japanese history and culture. Who really was Goemon Ishikawa, called by us, Europeans, the Japanese Robin Hood?

 

 

 

Youth in Iga and Ninja Training Under Momochi Sandayu

 

Ishikawa Goemon was born around the year 1558 in the province of Iga, a region known for outstanding figures trained as ninjas, which from his earliest years shaped his future. Iga was at that time a place where martial arts and survival strategies were not just skills but a way of life. In his youth, Goemon became a student of one of the most respected masters of ninjutsu, Momochi Sandayu, which marked the beginning of his path into the world of shinobi mysteries and martial arts.

 

Training under Momochi was strict and demanding, covering not only the physical aspects of combat but also tactics, espionage, and the arts of stealth and camouflage. Goemon quickly proved to be a capable student, absorbing knowledge and skills that later became his hallmark. However, the time spent learning from Momochi was not free from conflicts; legend has it that Goemon had an affair with his master's wife, which led to his exile. This incident was a turning point in his life, forcing Goemon to leave Iga and start a life on his own.

 

Exile did not end Goemon's career as a ninja; on the contrary, it opened a new path for him. Away from his master and the school he was once part of, Goemon began practicing his skills in a less conventional way. Using the techniques he had learned, he started his criminal activity, guided by principles far removed from his master's teachings. Despite this, his early years and training with Momochi Sandayu had an undeniable impact on shaping Goemon's character as one of the most famous and elusive ninjas in Japanese history, and his legendary status began to take shape in these early years of his life.

 

 

 

Switching Professions from Samurai to Thief

After the conflict with master Momochi Sandayu, Ishikawa Goemon was forced to flee from Iga. This event meant for Goemon not only a physical departure from the place that had shaped him as a warrior ninja but also a symbolic transition from a commendable life of a warrior to a role that was to make him a legend.

 

After leaving Iga, Goemon decided to live as a thief, but a thief with an unusual code of honor: he stole from the rich and dishonest to support the poor. His actions quickly brought him fame among ordinary people, who began to see him not only as a criminal but as a folk hero, a defender of the poor and oppressed.

 

 

 

Life's Twists and Turns

 

 

Living in Kansai

After fleeing from Iga, Goemon moved to the Kansai region, where he organized a band of thieves. His operations became increasingly bold and sophisticated, including not only thefts but also acts of sabotage against the rich and influential.

Attempted Assassination of Oda Nobunaga

One of the most famous, though historically unconfirmed, stories about Goemon is his alleged attempt to assassinate Oda Nobunaga, the powerful daimyō who sought to unify Japan. This story, likely apocryphal, underscores Goemon's courage and determination in fighting tyranny.

 

The Legendary Raid on Nagoya Castle

Following a series of spectacular thefts and actions against the elites, Goemon gained fame but also became the most wanted person by the justice system, forcing him into even greater caution and a life in hiding. During this period, he is credited with one of his most daring acts – an attempt to raid Nagoya Castle, where he aimed to steal the golden shachihoko (tiger-fish roof ornaments), symbols of wealth and power. Although this story, like many others from his life, is shrouded in myth, it illustrates both his extraordinary courage and his opposition to feudal authority, as well as his unwavering determination to fight against the powers that be.

Confrontation with Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Goemon continued his criminal activities, attracting the attention of increasingly powerful enemies, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself, who took power after Oda Nobunaga's death and sought further unification of the country. According to some accounts, Goemon planned an assassination of Hideyoshi, motivated by personal grievances or a continued quest for justice. This direct confrontation with Hideyoshi's forces, though ultimately unsuccessful, further cemented his legend as a fearless opponent of tyranny and oppression.

 

 

 

Tragic End

 

Goemon's life ended as dramatically as it was spectacular. His fame as a thief and his open conflict with the authorities made him a target. Eventually, he was captured by the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, another great unifier of Japan. His arrest and execution were intended to serve as a warning to others.

 

Goemon was sentenced to death by being boiled alive in a large cauldron of oil – a punishment incredibly cruel and certainly memorable to its witnesses. According to legend, even in the face of death, Goemon maintained his resolve, trying to save his son (who was then still a child), whom he held above the boiling oil to protect him from the fate he himself was about to suffer. This part of the story varies depending on the source, but one of the most widespread versions says that Goemon tried to save his son by holding him high above the boiling oil so that the flames and heat would not reach him. In some accounts, it is even said that in the last moments of his life, thanks to the mercy of the crowd or the intervention of an official, the boy was pulled from the cauldron and thus saved, while Goemon perished. This dramatic and tragic scene of a father trying to save his child's life in the face of certain death became a key element that contributed to further strengthening his legend as a folk hero.

 

After his death, the stories of Ishikawa Goemon spread even wider, and he himself became the hero of numerous theatrical, literary works, and later films and video games. His life and actions, though controversial and full of violence, inspired many generations, making him a lasting element of Japanese culture and history. Despite the cruelties he committed, in the eyes of many, he remained a symbol of rebellion against injustice, a complex figure who, in life, balanced on the edge of law and morality.

 

 

But who really was Goemon Ishikawa?

 

Analyzing the character of Ishikawa Goemon in light of available legends and stories, it can be seen that his character is much more complex than the simple image of the noble "Japanese Robin Hood." Although he undoubtedly enjoyed popularity as a folk hero who was supposed to steal from the rich to give to the poor, a closer look at the stories about him reveals character traits that paint him in less unequivocal colors.

 

 

Problem with Authorities

Goemon is often portrayed as a character rebelling against the established order and authorities of his times. His alleged attempt to assassinate Oda Nobunaga, the powerful daimyō striving to unify Japan, is often cited as an example of his resistance to authorities. This story, though unconfirmed, illustrates his readiness to risk his life in the fight against tyranny.

 

Another example could be the story of the conflict with the ninja master, Momochi Sandayu, whom Goemon is said to have betrayed by having an affair with his wife (yes, I know, this sentence seems awkward, but it fits perfectly within the Japanese tradition: Goemon betrayed his master by sleeping with his wife). After the conflict with the master, he left the school earlier, taking with him gold and the master's valuable sword).

 

Moreover, the raids he is credited with on wealthy feudal lords and their estates were not acts of simple theft, nor do they seem particularly motivated by a desire to help the poor, but rather by an aversion to these lords - people who held power in Japan at that time.

 

This and other stories show us Goemon as an independent man who finds it difficult to fit into Japanese society because he does not accept any authority or authority over himself (including the commonly accepted moral norms in society).

 

 

Aggression and Brutality

Tales of Goemon's activities often emphasize his ruthlessness and cruelty. He not only stole but also destroyed property and intimidated those he perceived as enemies. His methods could be effective, but they were far from dispassionate and definitely went beyond what was necessary to merely change the owner of goods from a rich man to a poor one.

 

Legends mention that Goemon sternly punished those who betrayed him or stood in the way of his plans. His brutality towards those who crossed his path was well-known, and he was feared, which only strengthens the image of a man who would not hesitate to use violence to achieve his goals.

 

 

Evaluation

Experts on the subject, like historians and scholars of Japanese culture, often emphasize these less positive aspects of his character. Stephen Turnbull, in his works on samurais and ninjas, highlights the ambivalence of Goemon as a folk hero - admired for his wit and skills on one hand, and criticized for methods that were far from honorable on the other.

Ishikawa Goemon is undoubtedly a complex figure, not unequivocally a positive hero (a positive hero in the sense of simple folk tales). His life and actions, though sometimes carrying hope and help for the poor, were equally often marked by violence, cruelty, and an escalating rebellious attitude towards authorities. This ambiguity makes Goemon an extremely interesting character for analysis, emerging as a much more intriguing person than the noble thief of tales.

 

 

 

Popular in Contemporary Pop Culture

 

As one might guess, characters like Ishikawa Goemon are very popular motifs in our times. Therefore, it is not surprising that one can easily find in every branch of popular culture works that refer to his story. His character, being a symbol of rebellion, social justice, and mastery in martial arts, has inspired creators around the world, transforming him into an icon recognizable far beyond the borders of Japan.

 

 

Video Games

 

"Ganbare Goemon" (also known as "Mystical Ninja")

A series of games mainly released for Nintendo consoles, where the player takes on the role of Goemon, fighting for justice and traversing Japan to face various villains. These games combine elements of action, platforming, and RPG, and Goemon is portrayed as a charismatic and honorable hero.

 

"Samurai Warriors"

In this series of strategy games, Goemon appears as one of the playable characters. Although the game is based on historical events of the Sengoku period in Japan, fantastical elements are added, presenting Goemon as a powerful warrior with unique abilities.

 

 

"Warriors Orochi"

Another game series, where Goemon joins forces with characters from different historical epochs and game universes to face a common enemy. His role as an unconventional hero is further emphasized by his unique abilities and distinctive fighting style.

 

 

Movies

 

"Goemon" (2009)

A Japanese action film directed by Kazuaki Kiriya, which tells a stylized story of Goemon's life as a spectacular folk hero. The film combines historical elements with fantasy, presenting Goemon as a fearless warrior with a strong sense of justice.

 

"Shinobi no Mono" (1962)

This classic black-and-white Japanese film, directed by Satsuo Yamamoto, focuses on the character of Goemon Ishikawa, presenting him in the historical and cultural context of the Sengoku period. The film depicts Goemon not only as a skilled ninja but also as a complex character entangled in a web of political intrigues and conflicts of the era. Based on facts and legends, the story explores Goemon's deep connections with the Iga ninja clan and his rivalry with Nobunaga Oda, highlighting his cunning, combat skills, and moral dilemmas. "Shinobi no Mono" is considered one of the more authentic representations of ninja life, and the character of Goemon Ishikawa is illustrated with remarkable depth and nuances, paying tribute to his legacy as one of the most famous ninjas in Japanese history.

 

"Ishikawa Goemon" (1913)

One of the oldest films depicting Goemon's story, showing his life. As a silent film, it tells the story in a very direct and understandable way, focusing on legendary deeds.

 

 

Manga and Anime

 

"Lupin III"

The character of Goemon Ishikawa XIII, a descendant of the famous Goemon, appears as one of the main characters in the "Lupin III" series. As a master swordsman, he is a loyal and effective member of Arsène Lupin III's team, often using his skills to combat opponents.

 

"Samurai Deeper Kyo"

In this manga and anime series, Goemon Ishikawa appears as a powerful samurai whose story refers to the legendary past. His character is presented as a warrior with unmatched skills.

 

"Ninja Resurrection"

In this anime, Goemon appears as a supporting character, but his legend and skills are key elements of the plot. The anime presents a darker side of his story, exploring themes of revenge and fighting oppression. Each of these productions shows Ishikawa Goemon from a different side, emphasizing the diversity of his character and the wide range of interpretations he has gained over the years. From an honorable hero to a dark warrior, Goemon remains a fascinating figure in Japanese culture, inspiring creators around the world.

 

 

 

Goemon Ishikawa: Further Interesting Facts to Explore

 

Although Ishikawa Goemon is often glorified as the Japanese Robin Hood, his story and legend contain much more than a simple narrative of a noble thief. Goemon was a figure full of contrasts, whose life oscillated between audacity and a deep opposition to authorities, at least according to sources. His actions, although sometimes aimed at helping the needy, were often filled with aggression and brutality. This serves as a reminder not to limit Goemon’s character to a one-dimensional interpretation, as legends about him provide us with a personality of a much richer spectrum. Here are three more curiosities for further reading for those readers interested in the topic of Goemon Ishikawa.

 

Kabuki and Joruri

Ishikawa Goemon is a popular character in Japanese kabuki theater and joruri puppet dramas, where his life and adventures are portrayed with a great deal of drama. These performances often explore various aspects of his character, from heroic deeds to complex personal relationships, showing him as a multifaceted figure. For those interested, the most popular works include: "Sanmon Gosan no Kiri" (kabuki) and "Ishikawa Goemon no Hoji" (joruri).

 

Festivals in Japan

In Japan, there are festivals and ceremonies commemorating Ishikawa Goemon, reflecting the lasting impact of his legend on Japanese culture. These events not only celebrate his figure but also remind us of the complex nature of the human spirit, oscillating between good and evil. The most famous is the Goemon Matsuri in Iga (the town where he grew up and trained as a ninja). Well-known festivals also take place in Kurama and Nanzen-ji (where his dramatic execution took place).

 

Memorial Sites to Visit

In many places in Japan, there are monuments and plaques commemorating Goemon Ishikawa, reflecting various aspects of his life and legend. The most famous include:

 

Goemon's Monument at Daiunin Temple in Kyoto: The place where, according to tradition, Goemon was executed. This monument is frequently visited by tourists and history enthusiasts who wish to pay tribute to this complex character.

 

Monument in Iga: As the birthplace and location of Goemon's early years, Iga is home to many sites related to his legend, including monuments, informational plaques, and a museum dedicated to Ishikawa, which guide visitors through the city following Goemon's trails.

 

Plaques at Nagoya Castle: Although the castle itself does not have a specific monument to Goemon, it is recognized as the site of one of his famous thefts. Information about Goemon can be found as part of the exhibitions dedicated to the castle's history.