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The Encounter of Araki Mataemon & Yamada Shinryukan



Yamada Shinryukan was a semi-famous swordsman following the Edo period of the 17th century of Japan. Shinryukan was a noted teacher of the chain & sickle who killed many rival swordsmen with his superb skills. 

Shinryukan was finally defeated when he fought against the semi-famous swordsman, Araki Mataemon (woodblock above). During their battle Mataemon lured Shinryukan into a bamboo grove. The thick bamboo did not give Shinryukan room to swing the chain and entangle his opponent, and Mataemon seized the chance to cut him down.

I have not done much further research but for all the amazing skill Yamada supposedly had the only tale in English is when he is killed.

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