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Usagi Yojimbo Origins #1
Usagi Yojimbo Origins, Vol. 1
Presenting the complete saga of rabbit rōnin Miyamoto Usagi from the very beginning, in new, definitive color editions!
Before his journey as a wandering, masterless samurai (ronin) began, Usagi underwent intense training under a mountain hermit, Katsuichi-Sensei, taking his first steps down the path of the warrior. Eventually, that path leads him to the pivotal battle of Adachigahara, which serves as the impetus for the host of amazing tales to come.
Collected in full color as never before, discover--or rediscover--the critical origin of Stan Sakai's most beloved character as he tells his story, setting the stage for the decades-long epic that follows.
Collects IDW's Usagi Yojimbo Color Classics #1-7, which present 1987's "Samurai" storyline in color for the first time.
Before his journey as a wandering, masterless samurai (ronin) began, Usagi underwent intense training under a mountain hermit, Katsuichi-Sensei, taking his first steps down the path of the warrior. Eventually, that path leads him to the pivotal battle of Adachigahara, which serves as the impetus for the host of amazing tales to come.
Collected in full color as never before, discover--or rediscover--the critical origin of Stan Sakai's most beloved character as he tells his story, setting the stage for the decades-long epic that follows.
Collects IDW's Usagi Yojimbo Color Classics #1-7, which present 1987's "Samurai" storyline in color for the first time.
168 pages, Paperback
Published April 6, 2021
About the author
Stan Sakai
934 books374 followersStan Sakai (Japanese: 坂井 スタンSakai Sutan; born May 25, 1953) is an artist who became known as an Eisner Award-winning comic book originator.
Born in Kyoto, Sakai grew up in Hawaii and studied fine arts at the University of Hawaii. He later attended the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. He and his wife, Sharon, presently reside and work in Pasadena.
He began his career by lettering comic books (notably Groo the Wanderer by Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier) and became famous with the production of Usagi Yojimbo, the epic saga of Miyamoto Usagi, a samurai rabbit living in late-sixteenth and early-seventeenth-century Japan. First published in 1984, the comic continues to this day, with Sakai as the lone author and nearly-sole artist (Tom Luth serves as the main colorist on the series, and Sergio Aragonés has made two small contributions to the series: the story "Broken Ritual" is based on an idea by Aragonés, and he served as a guest inker for the black and white version of the story "Return to Adachi Plain" that is featured in the Volume 11 trade paper-back edition of Usagi Yojimbo). He also made a futuristic spin-off series Space Usagi. His favorite movie is Satomi Hakkenden (1959).
Born in Kyoto, Sakai grew up in Hawaii and studied fine arts at the University of Hawaii. He later attended the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. He and his wife, Sharon, presently reside and work in Pasadena.
He began his career by lettering comic books (notably Groo the Wanderer by Sergio Aragonés and Mark Evanier) and became famous with the production of Usagi Yojimbo, the epic saga of Miyamoto Usagi, a samurai rabbit living in late-sixteenth and early-seventeenth-century Japan. First published in 1984, the comic continues to this day, with Sakai as the lone author and nearly-sole artist (Tom Luth serves as the main colorist on the series, and Sergio Aragonés has made two small contributions to the series: the story "Broken Ritual" is based on an idea by Aragonés, and he served as a guest inker for the black and white version of the story "Return to Adachi Plain" that is featured in the Volume 11 trade paper-back edition of Usagi Yojimbo). He also made a futuristic spin-off series Space Usagi. His favorite movie is Satomi Hakkenden (1959).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 18, 2021
Utter bliss. Usagi is a singular creation on the order Tintin, Bone, Asterix or Uncle Scrooge. ORIGINS hits all the right notes and is a pinnacle of comic booking. The color newly added is perfectly beautiful. The best place to start reading Usagi is right here right now. Forget about COVID and climate change with this uplifting collection. Belongs in every home. Usagi books always sell-out. Get a copy today.
June 29, 2024
Love a good origin story.
May 25, 2021
I have a BookTube channel where I review books, give reading suggestions, and more! Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/dragonarmybooks
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Rabbits? Ninjas? Samurai? And now in full color? That's hard to beat!
I was just recently introduced to the wide world of Usagi Yojimbo and I found it to be right up my alley. I have a pet rabbit, so there is a natural connection there. But even more than that, I am a sucker for good graphic novels with stunning artwork, interesting characters, and engaging stories. Usagi Yojimbo: Origins Vol. 1 has all of that.
This collection is really Usagi's origin story. We discover the events, both tragic and victorious, that led to the anthropomorphic rabbit becoming a fully trained samurai. We are introduced to a small cast of characters (some that don't make it to the end of the volume) and a tightly-wound story that is easily digestible for any reader that already enjoys graphic novels. This is just the beginning of Usagi's long and tragic tale, and I can't wait to read on.
I actually read the first half in its original format, meaning there was no color at all. Still, the illustrations were enough to keep me engaged. When I finally found out that there were a color edition of the classics, I quickly switched over and it made the reading experience even better. If you are looking into starting the Usagi Yojimbo series and you don't know where to start, I've got your answer: START HERE!
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Rabbits? Ninjas? Samurai? And now in full color? That's hard to beat!
I was just recently introduced to the wide world of Usagi Yojimbo and I found it to be right up my alley. I have a pet rabbit, so there is a natural connection there. But even more than that, I am a sucker for good graphic novels with stunning artwork, interesting characters, and engaging stories. Usagi Yojimbo: Origins Vol. 1 has all of that.
This collection is really Usagi's origin story. We discover the events, both tragic and victorious, that led to the anthropomorphic rabbit becoming a fully trained samurai. We are introduced to a small cast of characters (some that don't make it to the end of the volume) and a tightly-wound story that is easily digestible for any reader that already enjoys graphic novels. This is just the beginning of Usagi's long and tragic tale, and I can't wait to read on.
I actually read the first half in its original format, meaning there was no color at all. Still, the illustrations were enough to keep me engaged. When I finally found out that there were a color edition of the classics, I quickly switched over and it made the reading experience even better. If you are looking into starting the Usagi Yojimbo series and you don't know where to start, I've got your answer: START HERE!
March 23, 2026
There is something about the Usagi books, that every so often makes me go back to them. This one has been lying on my too read pile for a while, and as it's reprints, I wasn't in a massive rush to read it, which just goes to show how mistaken I can be.
Usagi is the tale of a masterless samurai, wondering around Japan on his warriors pilgrimage. The story is as historically accurate as he can make it, with one slight amendment, everything is anthropomorphic. Usagi himself is a rabbit, and over the times of his travel he comes across all sorts of animals, both natural and supernatural.
This collection starts at the beginning, with the story of how Usagi became a samurai, how he got his swords, and how he became a Ronin, following the betrayal of his lord. Following on from that there a couple of shorter stories, giving Usagi more of a rounded character, as he protects a traveller from a swamp demon, and assists a young lord on his road to see the Shogun.
Having read these in the black and white reprints put out by Fantagraphic years ago, seeing them in full colour really adds to the scenery, and scene setting. It's little and bright, and just cartoony enough. The draughtsmanship is excellent, although as this is the early volume, you can see places where it would be improved upon later. The colour though does seem to mask a lot of this.
If you've never read Usagi, this is a wonderful jumping on point.
Usagi is the tale of a masterless samurai, wondering around Japan on his warriors pilgrimage. The story is as historically accurate as he can make it, with one slight amendment, everything is anthropomorphic. Usagi himself is a rabbit, and over the times of his travel he comes across all sorts of animals, both natural and supernatural.
This collection starts at the beginning, with the story of how Usagi became a samurai, how he got his swords, and how he became a Ronin, following the betrayal of his lord. Following on from that there a couple of shorter stories, giving Usagi more of a rounded character, as he protects a traveller from a swamp demon, and assists a young lord on his road to see the Shogun.
Having read these in the black and white reprints put out by Fantagraphic years ago, seeing them in full colour really adds to the scenery, and scene setting. It's little and bright, and just cartoony enough. The draughtsmanship is excellent, although as this is the early volume, you can see places where it would be improved upon later. The colour though does seem to mask a lot of this.
If you've never read Usagi, this is a wonderful jumping on point.
October 12, 2022
Que gibizinho bacana.
O Usagi Yojimbo era um daqueles personagens que escutava falar, mas nunca tinha ido atrás de algo para ler, então apareceu uma proposta um tanto quanto interessante, vou arriscar. E, amigos, que achado. Que gibizinho bacana.
A edição com uma origem do coelho samurai, ele ainda adolescente indo estudar na escola de samurai, decide ir estudar com um mestre renegado cujo principal ensinamento é que a honra é mais importante que o combate, alguns anos depois Usagi vence um torneio e vai servir a um mestre, numa batalha contra um outro exército, o mestre é traído e, como um dos poucos sobreviventes, Usagi vira um ronin, um samurai sem mestre, e, claro, parte em grandes aventuras e altas confusões.
Além disso temos a introdução de alguns personagens; um interesse romântico, um jovem lorde, um arqui-inimigo muito parecido com um certo endiabrado de outra editora, vários seres mitológicos do Japão feudal, e, por um único instante, o Groo.
Por sinal, o estilo de desenho do Sakai lembra muito o Aragonés, mas mais lindo e delicado; e o texto também é muito leve e soltinho que nem arroz de mãe. Fiquei muito surpreso com o quanto eu gostei desse gibi, uma ótima pedida para aquela leitura na rede, debaixo de uma sombra, num domingo pós-churrasco.
O Usagi Yojimbo era um daqueles personagens que escutava falar, mas nunca tinha ido atrás de algo para ler, então apareceu uma proposta um tanto quanto interessante, vou arriscar. E, amigos, que achado. Que gibizinho bacana.
A edição com uma origem do coelho samurai, ele ainda adolescente indo estudar na escola de samurai, decide ir estudar com um mestre renegado cujo principal ensinamento é que a honra é mais importante que o combate, alguns anos depois Usagi vence um torneio e vai servir a um mestre, numa batalha contra um outro exército, o mestre é traído e, como um dos poucos sobreviventes, Usagi vira um ronin, um samurai sem mestre, e, claro, parte em grandes aventuras e altas confusões.
Além disso temos a introdução de alguns personagens; um interesse romântico, um jovem lorde, um arqui-inimigo muito parecido com um certo endiabrado de outra editora, vários seres mitológicos do Japão feudal, e, por um único instante, o Groo.
Por sinal, o estilo de desenho do Sakai lembra muito o Aragonés, mas mais lindo e delicado; e o texto também é muito leve e soltinho que nem arroz de mãe. Fiquei muito surpreso com o quanto eu gostei desse gibi, uma ótima pedida para aquela leitura na rede, debaixo de uma sombra, num domingo pós-churrasco.
February 6, 2021
We have here a reprint of a classic manga series, now in all-color. I admit I hadn't heard of this series before, but it's quite an enjoyable story. While it's not a new concept, the classic samurai tale is told well here, showing Usagi's decision to train with a master, and his progression to samurai, then ronin after his employer is killed. The pace, for the most part, is a bit slow, but because of that, we get a good look at the history and customs of the time period. The characters are well fleshed-out, and the episodic nature of the text allows us to get a good feel for Usagi's personality. The art is light and fun, in contrast to the seriousness of the story, and the details are amusing- the little dinosaur-like lizards are adorable! Overall, a solid, contemplative read with bursts of action.
#UsagiYojimboOriginsVol1Samurai #NetGalley
#UsagiYojimboOriginsVol1Samurai #NetGalley
November 3, 2021
I originally read these stories in black and white, and wasn't sure what a colorist could do with them, as they were designed for that format. I was pleased by the adaptation, which built on Stan's art and used the colors to enhance the visual appearance, rather than just overwhelm it.
While I remembered the stories, I hadn't remembered the way in which Usagi's back story had been presented, and I really enjoyed that blast from the past. I also enjoyed the "Kappa" story a great deal, as it was an early look at the folkloric aspects of Japanese culture that have long been at the heart of these stories.
If you like any part of the later Usagi Yojimbo material, I highly recommend this volume, as it sets the stage for his whole story, as well as introducing some of the characters who wander in and out of his life over the years.
While I remembered the stories, I hadn't remembered the way in which Usagi's back story had been presented, and I really enjoyed that blast from the past. I also enjoyed the "Kappa" story a great deal, as it was an early look at the folkloric aspects of Japanese culture that have long been at the heart of these stories.
If you like any part of the later Usagi Yojimbo material, I highly recommend this volume, as it sets the stage for his whole story, as well as introducing some of the characters who wander in and out of his life over the years.
March 2, 2021
A beautiful collection of Usagi Yojimbo comics now in color.
The artwork is beautiful. The details and colors are great,
The story is great. Seeing how Usagi grows to become the hero we all know was awesome to see. I enjoyed see how Usagi grows throughout the story. You see his hero story and see how embraces the life of a hero.
This is the first time I’ve read his backstory and I really enjoyed it. I know Usagi from the old Tmnt cartoons and comics.
I highly recommend this comic book collection because it’s a great samurai book, a story about a character who grows a lot, and becomes a hero.
I also really enjoy any book with Anthropomorphic characters.. It’s a story that’s definitely worth a read.
The artwork is beautiful. The details and colors are great,
The story is great. Seeing how Usagi grows to become the hero we all know was awesome to see. I enjoyed see how Usagi grows throughout the story. You see his hero story and see how embraces the life of a hero.
This is the first time I’ve read his backstory and I really enjoyed it. I know Usagi from the old Tmnt cartoons and comics.
I highly recommend this comic book collection because it’s a great samurai book, a story about a character who grows a lot, and becomes a hero.
I also really enjoy any book with Anthropomorphic characters.. It’s a story that’s definitely worth a read.
December 5, 2020
Stan Sakai's Usagi Yojimbo: Origins is a full-color reissue of the anthropomorphic samurai's earliest adventures. The art work is beautiful, the background full of details, with motion and architecture all rendered clearly, even at this early stage. The stories ring familiar to fans of the samurai canon, hey that guy is like Zatoichi, oh this is from that, but it does not matter because again the art but the writing makes the characters interesting, and as the suspense builds in each story the reader is swept along. I have read that Netflix might be developing Usagi for a series, which is great, and this would be a good start to become familiar with the next big series.
April 12, 2021
Usagi is my favorite comic book, but I hadn't reread these earliest stories in many years. Rereading them now, all I can think is how stunning this series is - how completely realized it was from the very start. Stan Sakai's ability to keep the quality at such a high level - from the very first stroke of a pen - is a magnificent accomplishment.
Also, credit to Ronda Pattison for excellent and sensitive coloring. The stories have never looked better.
Also, credit to Ronda Pattison for excellent and sensitive coloring. The stories have never looked better.
May 4, 2021
First time I’ve read these stories in years, and they have not lost their magic, despite being colorized (which isn’t a strong selling point for me but no shade on those who like it). A solid intro to the canon of the series, it deftly sets up characters, relationships and story points that are still recognizable today. Stan Sakai is a master storyteller who does not get the recognition he deserves.
September 10, 2022
What a delight. I read much of this reprinting in original comics back in the 80s. I was very leary of the added color - but it is great, not intrusive on Sakai's amazing line work. The art is absolutely stunning, amazing one man could crank this out so rapidly. I am not a fan of manga and so I enjoy the western storytelling style applied to the Japanese setting.
Definitely going forward with more Usagi!
Definitely going forward with more Usagi!
December 7, 2021
This new colorized version is absolutely fantastic!
I've read and loved all of the Usagi Yojimbo comics when I was younger and the stories are just as magical as I remember them. I've immediately ordered the second volume which, unfortunately, is the only other colorized one released so far. Looks like I'll be starting a new collection! Again.
I've read and loved all of the Usagi Yojimbo comics when I was younger and the stories are just as magical as I remember them. I've immediately ordered the second volume which, unfortunately, is the only other colorized one released so far. Looks like I'll be starting a new collection! Again.
January 8, 2022
This volume collects some of the stories pertaining to Usagi Yojimbo's origins and presents them in full-colour.
The stories show our favourite character's development from child to Samurai and, subsequently, ronin. With all of the interesting characters Usagi meets along the way.
The full-colour makes this a gorgeous read and a delight.
4 stars - loved it
The stories show our favourite character's development from child to Samurai and, subsequently, ronin. With all of the interesting characters Usagi meets along the way.
The full-colour makes this a gorgeous read and a delight.
4 stars - loved it
July 13, 2025
I had never read Usagi's origin even though I've been a fan of the character since his association with the 80s TMNT. This is a classic samurai story but with cute animals. the dialogue is good. The atmosphere is great. I wasn't expecting it to be as serious as it is. I would recommend this to anyone who likes visual storytelling.
November 2, 2020
No le doy un 5, porque esta nueva edicion de IDW me tiene algo perdido. La historia del #7 yo la había leído en el TPB #1 (Ronin) de Fantagraphics, y está incompleta. Ojalá que la continuación esté al inicio del siguiente TPB de IDW, para que no quede trunca.
El color y la edición son fabulosas.
El color y la edición son fabulosas.
June 11, 2021
I loved going back to the beginning. I will definitely read this series. Not only does it let me relive the adventures of Usagi and his friends and contemporaries, I get to see them all in color! Win! I really had a good time reading these stories.
November 21, 2022
I've always wanted to read Usagi after I found out ot was a comic book. I had seen him on TMNT and the TMNT action figures when I was younger. This was great. The art,stories, and characters are intresting. I'll definitely be reading more Usagi soon.
January 26, 2023
Samurai
This was definitely a different type of a samurai story. Very funny and very eventful! Such a good read for someone!
And for some reason, this reminds me of the movie The Last Samurai in some scenes.
This was definitely a different type of a samurai story. Very funny and very eventful! Such a good read for someone!
And for some reason, this reminds me of the movie The Last Samurai in some scenes.
March 14, 2023
I love Usagi
Usagi Yojimbo is my favorite graphic novel series. I love the characters and the so key SO much! I can't wait to read more about them. Stan Sakai is amazing. I love your work, Sir.
Usagi Yojimbo is my favorite graphic novel series. I love the characters and the so key SO much! I can't wait to read more about them. Stan Sakai is amazing. I love your work, Sir.
September 3, 2024
Huge fan of Usagi Yojimbo and it was fun to go back and read the first stories.
Have to say I am mixed on the all color pages. I own a few of the big, black and white tomes and I always preferred those. Still fun though.
Have to say I am mixed on the all color pages. I own a few of the big, black and white tomes and I always preferred those. Still fun though.
November 30, 2020
The only things I knew about Usagi before this book were from TMNT 2003 animated tv series. I was interested to read about his backstory. #UsagiYojimboOriginsVol1Samurai #NetGalley
May 4, 2021
Consistent, clean drawings, and a beautiful introduction to Usagi as a character. I'm looking forward to continuing to read Usagi's adventures.
May 17, 2021
My first ride on the Usagi train and I loved it. If only the hardcovers weren’t so hard to come by.
April 10, 2022
Ace comic, really good
May 23, 2022
I was a little hesitant about reading this in color but it's gorgeous and still has the same whimsical charm as the original black and white.
November 13, 2022
fantastic
The originals are final,y fully colored and it add so much more to the visual dynamics of the story. Well done!
The originals are final,y fully colored and it add so much more to the visual dynamics of the story. Well done!
April 24, 2023
Wanted to get into Usagi yojimbo for a long time, this was perfect will definitely need more !
November 27, 2023
A miña infancia, e ademais un cómic weeaboo furro, pra que logo digan que non apuntaba maneiras smh. 🐇/🍋 score
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews