How Information is Important for Self-Defence.
Shingen was a kind of Information Researcher, so he was a strong samurai combining intelligence and strongness. He respected famous Asian strategist “Sun Tzu”, and learned how information is important for self-defence.
Sun Tzu’s famous saying “Win all without fighting” was also Shingen’s faith.
Firstly, he concluded a peace treaty with neighboring countries as much as possible. Because he didn’t want to lose workforce and resources. Anytime, he tried to keep the alliance of 3 countries, because Takeda Shingen’s territory was surrounded by 4 strong enemies from the 4 points of the compass. In this way, he could concentrate on only 1 target.
“Shape Your Opponent” was also the famous lesson from “Sun Tzu” .
Secondly, Shingen valued the moving speed. When it was the right time, he attacked strongly without hesitation. But he also took care of the period in Samurai battles. He had a clear reason for that, because most soldiers had the actual occupation “The Farmer”.
He never prolonged the duration of the Samurai war.
Takeda’s Cavalry Soldiers
Another of his strong points was “Advertising”. Shingen’s samurai corp was often rumoured that he had the biggest and strongest team in Japan. Their cavalry soldiers were especially well known all over Japan. Takeda’s cavalry soldiers were given expensive armors which were colored Red. Their fastest horses were feared by everyone, more than actual strongness.
He already knew that information was mightier than a Samurai Sword. He was one of the best promoters and intelligence analysts.
Real Earnest Wish
The earnest wish of Takeda Shingen was obtaining the territorial waters. To improve his economic situation, he tried to get the new land which had coastal towns. Since he doesn’t have harbor or port authority, his clan was always bothered by import restrictions from neighboring countries.
That’s why he couldn’t stop inroad invasion in his whole life.
If he had been born in the 21st century
His Samurai quest was “Going for the port city” , however, it didn’t come true. Although Shingen’s clan was inland , he arranged natural resources with river irrigation. Therefore, he could keep high productivity in agriculture.
And, let’s look back to his main project, again. Human resources was Shingen’s highest priority. Needless to say, most of his citizens or subordinates agreed with his policy. His Samurai strategy was highly respected from other countries too.
If he had been born in the 21st century, “Takeda Shingen” would have been a very accomplished businessman. Don’t you think so?
