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Vagabond VIZBIG Omnibus Edition #3
Vagabond, Vol. 3
One With Heaven and Earth
Real-life figure Miyamoto Musashi was the most celebrated samurai of all time. The quintessential warrior-philosopher, Musashi authored A Book of Five Rings, a classic treatise in the canon of world philosophy and military strategy. But the path to enlightenment is an endless journey, and to get there through violent means—by way of the sword—makes mere survival an even greater challenge.
Musashi suffers a humiliating defeat against Inshun, the second-generation master of Hōzōin Temple. To prepare for a rematch, Musashi undertakes an intense spiritual and physical training regimen with a most unlikely teacher—Inshun's predecessor, the founder of the Hōzōin Spear Technique. To attain the focus necessary to take on the most technically proficient and deadliest fighter he has ever faced, Musashi will first have to confront his own deep-seated personal demons.
Real-life figure Miyamoto Musashi was the most celebrated samurai of all time. The quintessential warrior-philosopher, Musashi authored A Book of Five Rings, a classic treatise in the canon of world philosophy and military strategy. But the path to enlightenment is an endless journey, and to get there through violent means—by way of the sword—makes mere survival an even greater challenge.
Musashi suffers a humiliating defeat against Inshun, the second-generation master of Hōzōin Temple. To prepare for a rematch, Musashi undertakes an intense spiritual and physical training regimen with a most unlikely teacher—Inshun's predecessor, the founder of the Hōzōin Spear Technique. To attain the focus necessary to take on the most technically proficient and deadliest fighter he has ever faced, Musashi will first have to confront his own deep-seated personal demons.
616 pages, Paperback
First published February 21, 2001
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696 people want to read
About the author
Takehiko Inoue
316 books1,582 followersTakehiko Inoue (井上雄彦) is a Japanese manga artist, best known for Slam Dunk and Vagabond.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
September 5, 2021
Of the 134 chapters of Vagabond that I've read so far, chapter 63, "Spider's Thread", contains my favorite scene that Takehiko Inoue and his underappreciated assistants have composed yet.
After his shameful, one-sided defeat at Inshun's hands and weeks of humbling, arduous training and instruction in the surrounding wilderness right under Inshun's own master, In'nei, tonight is the night that Miyamoto Musashi has his rematch against the second-generation master of the Hozoin Temple. Unlike their first duel they have chosen to fight in the woods surrounding the temple, at night, with no witnesses save for In'nei and Inshun's only friend among his fellow monks, Agon.
Before he officially declares for the duel to begin In'nei asks Musashi a question.
An important question. One that's never occurred to him, in spite of all the danger and death he's found himself involved in since he originally left Miyamoto village alongside Matahachi years ago.
In'nei's question threatens to bring all the debilitating fear of death and Inshun that Musashi's been wrestling with since his loss to the surface at the most inopportune time.
But then a spider suddenly enters his line of sight, distracting him from Inshun, the upcoming duel, and his fear for a crucial moment.
Musashi's eyes idly wander up the thread of web the spider is dangling from... and he sees this.
And so he has his answer for In'nei.
Volume 7 is filled with such small quiet moments of movement, introspection, and musings, each of which leaves an impact as Inoue ratchets up the suspense and anticipation to the clash of weapons and will between Musashi and Inshun, making it akin to a Mexican standoff in a Spaghetti Western. He's not interested in choreographing the rematch into a fight similar to their long, furious first duel. He's so uninterested in rehashing elements from the previous fight that
Besides, it makes sense that their second duel would be a different kind of beast. Both men are fighting to the death; neither of them can risk making a single mistake. A fact that Inshun - who has never killed anyone before, and who's prodigious talent in combat means he has never learned the importance fear has as a motivation and a teacher - can't quite grasp as well as the battle-hardened Musashi. Suffice it to say that Musashi is victorious, but the aftermath of their second duel has an intensity of it's own that arguably surpasses that of the anticipation to the violence and the violence itself.
The last volume collected here (Volume 9) is the beginning of a new arc, and these first chapters provide some much needed levity and intrigue from the emotional wringer that the Nara arc ends on. The Nara arc had such an incredible climax though that it can't help but pale in comparison.
4 3/4 stars
After his shameful, one-sided defeat at Inshun's hands and weeks of humbling, arduous training and instruction in the surrounding wilderness right under Inshun's own master, In'nei, tonight is the night that Miyamoto Musashi has his rematch against the second-generation master of the Hozoin Temple. Unlike their first duel they have chosen to fight in the woods surrounding the temple, at night, with no witnesses save for In'nei and Inshun's only friend among his fellow monks, Agon.
Before he officially declares for the duel to begin In'nei asks Musashi a question.
An important question. One that's never occurred to him, in spite of all the danger and death he's found himself involved in since he originally left Miyamoto village alongside Matahachi years ago.
In'nei's question threatens to bring all the debilitating fear of death and Inshun that Musashi's been wrestling with since his loss to the surface at the most inopportune time.
But then a spider suddenly enters his line of sight, distracting him from Inshun, the upcoming duel, and his fear for a crucial moment.
Musashi's eyes idly wander up the thread of web the spider is dangling from... and he sees this.
And so he has his answer for In'nei.
Volume 7 is filled with such small quiet moments of movement, introspection, and musings, each of which leaves an impact as Inoue ratchets up the suspense and anticipation to the clash of weapons and will between Musashi and Inshun, making it akin to a Mexican standoff in a Spaghetti Western. He's not interested in choreographing the rematch into a fight similar to their long, furious first duel. He's so uninterested in rehashing elements from the previous fight that
Besides, it makes sense that their second duel would be a different kind of beast. Both men are fighting to the death; neither of them can risk making a single mistake. A fact that Inshun - who has never killed anyone before, and who's prodigious talent in combat means he has never learned the importance fear has as a motivation and a teacher - can't quite grasp as well as the battle-hardened Musashi. Suffice it to say that Musashi is victorious, but the aftermath of their second duel has an intensity of it's own that arguably surpasses that of the anticipation to the violence and the violence itself.
The last volume collected here (Volume 9) is the beginning of a new arc, and these first chapters provide some much needed levity and intrigue from the emotional wringer that the Nara arc ends on. The Nara arc had such an incredible climax though that it can't help but pale in comparison.
4 3/4 stars
September 11, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and we have crossed the five star barrier at this point (for me at least)! There’s really nothing new for me to say in regards to the art: it’s beautiful, ‘nuf said. As far as the story goes one might think that having yet another climactic battle between Musashi and his opponent is starting to get old, but Takehiko Inoue manages to keep things fresh. This time Musashi fights what is almost purely a battle of wills with Inshun the gifted monk of the Hozoin. As each fighter faces off against his opponent across a wooded glade they appear to their audience to be simply staring at each other, while in reality an intense combat is playing out in the minds and wills of each of them. Musashi shows that he is no less a prodigy than his opponent as he has already learned from past mistakes and is beginning to open himself up to the requirements of his training and can see the tiny flaws that exist in the accomplished monk. As we race to a quick yet decisive physical conclusion to the battle we also learn about the tragic past of Inshun and see what it is that has driven him to become the greatest fighter in his monastery to the exclusion of all else, even human relationships.
Meanwhile we find Otsu in her new position as servant to, and favourite of, the infamous and aging swordsman Yagyu Sekishusai. Musashi’s former opponent Yoshioka Denshichiro has already approached the legendary master in hopes of a bout and been rebuffed as we see that Sekishusai has little interest in bolstering the fame of the many ronin travelling Japan in the hopes of making a name for themselves. Otsu seems very hapy in her new position, but still seems troubled by her memories of Musashi and the rumours she is hearing of his increasing fame (or notoriety). Ultimately Musashi makes his way to the Yagyu after closing off his affairs with the Hozoin monks in the hopes of also being able to challenge the master. He unknowingly comes across the grandson and heir of Sekishusai who is also heading home to the Yagyu compound and both figthers are impressed by the martial chi they each sense in the other…foreshadowing? Musashi attempts a stratagem to enter the compund and overcome Sekishusai’s disinterest in accepting challenges, but his young protégé Jotaro throws a bit of a monkey wrench into things (and shows himself to be nearly as impulsive and headstrong as his master).
The final thread of the stories in this volume follows up on Musashi’s old friend Matahachi who is living high off the reputation of Kojiro Sasaki. Normally the formidable reputation of the samurai he is impersonating is enough to keep Matahachi safe, though we see that when the uncommon occurrence of a real challenge arises Matahchi’s response is not an unexpected one. It is during just one such occurrence that Matahachi has an unexpected (and largely unwanted) reunion with his mother, the dour and petulant Osugi, and his uncle Gon who have both been searching the countryside for Musashi in the hopes of killing him. They advise the prodigal son of the Hon’iden of the ‘betrayal’ he has suffered at the hands of Otsu and Musashi and we can begin to see that many of the threads of Musashi’s epic story may be coming together, for a time at least.
Great story, great art. Fans of manga, and especially samurai tales, will love this one.
Meanwhile we find Otsu in her new position as servant to, and favourite of, the infamous and aging swordsman Yagyu Sekishusai. Musashi’s former opponent Yoshioka Denshichiro has already approached the legendary master in hopes of a bout and been rebuffed as we see that Sekishusai has little interest in bolstering the fame of the many ronin travelling Japan in the hopes of making a name for themselves. Otsu seems very hapy in her new position, but still seems troubled by her memories of Musashi and the rumours she is hearing of his increasing fame (or notoriety). Ultimately Musashi makes his way to the Yagyu after closing off his affairs with the Hozoin monks in the hopes of also being able to challenge the master. He unknowingly comes across the grandson and heir of Sekishusai who is also heading home to the Yagyu compound and both figthers are impressed by the martial chi they each sense in the other…foreshadowing? Musashi attempts a stratagem to enter the compund and overcome Sekishusai’s disinterest in accepting challenges, but his young protégé Jotaro throws a bit of a monkey wrench into things (and shows himself to be nearly as impulsive and headstrong as his master).
The final thread of the stories in this volume follows up on Musashi’s old friend Matahachi who is living high off the reputation of Kojiro Sasaki. Normally the formidable reputation of the samurai he is impersonating is enough to keep Matahachi safe, though we see that when the uncommon occurrence of a real challenge arises Matahchi’s response is not an unexpected one. It is during just one such occurrence that Matahachi has an unexpected (and largely unwanted) reunion with his mother, the dour and petulant Osugi, and his uncle Gon who have both been searching the countryside for Musashi in the hopes of killing him. They advise the prodigal son of the Hon’iden of the ‘betrayal’ he has suffered at the hands of Otsu and Musashi and we can begin to see that many of the threads of Musashi’s epic story may be coming together, for a time at least.
Great story, great art. Fans of manga, and especially samurai tales, will love this one.
July 3, 2019
Здається, що це одна із моїх улюблених манґ. Звісно, я не прочитав сто тисяч манґ, але з того, що читав - це мастерпіс. Конкретно цей том сфокусований на битву з Іншуном, від якого Мусаші зазнав поразки в попередніх випусках. Однак після того багато чого змінилось - змінився сам Мусаші. Замість агресивного звіра він перетворився в самозаглибленого, вдумливого й уважного воїна, який здатен контролювати свій дух, а відтак і тіло. Саме ось цей самоконтроль і уможливив його перемогу над Іншуном, якого, чесно кажучи, мені дуже шкода. Іноуе так глибоко, чуттєво розкрив цього персонажа, його бекґраунд, що я б із задоволенням почитав якийсь спін-офф, але цього не буде.
Щодо самого Мусаші, то ми бачимо чітку, логічну й вельми красиву еволюцію його особистості. Так, тепер перед нами вже дорослий чоловік, який чітко знає чого хоче. Цікаво, що увесь фон, ландшафт підігрує цим змінам: замість різким, часто розмитим лініями приходять зважені контури, деталі. Щодо останніх, то "Ваґабонда" треба читати повільно, уважно, медитуючи над кожним фреймом. Інколи я надто довго зависав над сторінками, занурювався у атмосферу пізньосередньовічної Японії і загалом внутрішнього монологу Мусаші (очевидно, що між цими світами є безпосереденій зв'язок). Від такого зависання мені здавалося, що намальовані листя шумлять, а кров героїв пульсує і смакує солоним від чергового удару. Тому я питаю себе: як же так Іноуе вдається передати ось ці ледь вловимі нюанси? Напевно, поясненням цьому є глибока культурна традиція Японії, де робота над тим чи тим заняттям вимагає повної віддачі, коли автор і текст стають одним цілим. Колись я переглядав відео як Іноуе творить свою манґу - і це справді подібно до шаманізму. А щодо самого героя, то його шлях тільки починається, тому мені нестерпно цікаво, що ж буде далі. Медитаціям бути!
Щодо самого Мусаші, то ми бачимо чітку, логічну й вельми красиву еволюцію його особистості. Так, тепер перед нами вже дорослий чоловік, який чітко знає чого хоче. Цікаво, що увесь фон, ландшафт підігрує цим змінам: замість різким, часто розмитим лініями приходять зважені контури, деталі. Щодо останніх, то "Ваґабонда" треба читати повільно, уважно, медитуючи над кожним фреймом. Інколи я надто довго зависав над сторінками, занурювався у атмосферу пізньосередньовічної Японії і загалом внутрішнього монологу Мусаші (очевидно, що між цими світами є безпосереденій зв'язок). Від такого зависання мені здавалося, що намальовані листя шумлять, а кров героїв пульсує і смакує солоним від чергового удару. Тому я питаю себе: як же так Іноуе вдається передати ось ці ледь вловимі нюанси? Напевно, поясненням цьому є глибока культурна традиція Японії, де робота над тим чи тим заняттям вимагає повної віддачі, коли автор і текст стають одним цілим. Колись я переглядав відео як Іноуе творить свою манґу - і це справді подібно до шаманізму. А щодо самого героя, то його шлях тільки починається, тому мені нестерпно цікаво, що ж буде далі. Медитаціям бути!
March 8, 2022
Another stunning and immersive adventure! I love these characters and getting to see them cross paths over and over is a thrill that never gets old. The artwork is really magnificent and meticulous in its vivid detail and dynamic design. I consumed all 600+ pages in a single ravenous sitting and am still desperate for more! Vagabond is, by far, my favorite manga and just one of my favorite stories in general. The scenes with Musashi becoming obsessed with the cut of a flower were especially memorable and uniquely aesthetic and effective. He must discover who cut this perfectly pruned peony and his instincts lead him to a great swordsman. It's storytelling like this that give this series the romantic feeling of an ancient folk tale or fable. I can not wait for the next installment and I can't highly recommend this manga masterpiece enough!
September 27, 2023
Character development is getting stronger but not rushing, it's taking its time and it feels more authentic that way. Is hard to keep track with all of the names though
March 18, 2017
Volume 7 - 4 stars
This volume was so raw and real, it really got me thinking and turning my thoughts around and then going over them to make sure I comprehend them. Inoue himself said that his manga isn't the type you learn anything from, they're purely entertainment, but I believe that was just him and his sword talking as one with heaven and earth. I truly believe that he's teaching us just as Kami'izumi Ise no Kami hidetsuna did his disciples. Vagabond is true art, full of Inoues soul. I appreciate this volume so much !
Volume 8 - 4 stars
Another truly admirable volume, Inoue knows how to create an indulging beautiful story. I loved the sequence of Shinnosuke, his past was saddening but I enjoyed seeing the outcome unfold. I love Musashi so much, he's such a great character and although his growth has exceeded his past, there's is still so long to go and I'm strapped in for the ride ! I love Mususahi's story.
I also love how Inoue has created a character or family in this case, that I absolutely despise - the Hon'iden family, it's a shame to even say their name. I cannot believe the audacity this family has, I'm anticipating their downfall, hate to say it, but it's true - or hopefully they bow down to Musashi's sword whilst Otsu's by his side :) I loved this volume, I cannot wait to continue !
Volume 9 - 4 stars
Not too much happened in this volume, however everything that did occur was done brilliantly. I love how this story is progressing, Musashi is growing at a rapid pace, I love the concept of the peony in this volume and I'm intrigued to find out what it means to Musashi and Yagyū Sekishūsai. I'm very excited to see the progression of Hyōgono-suke as a character either as Musashi's friend or Otsū's lover. Also I love Jōtarō's development into a swordsman, this is intriguing stuff, I'm so excited to continue on, I love Vagabond ! Inoue's a genius !
This volume was so raw and real, it really got me thinking and turning my thoughts around and then going over them to make sure I comprehend them. Inoue himself said that his manga isn't the type you learn anything from, they're purely entertainment, but I believe that was just him and his sword talking as one with heaven and earth. I truly believe that he's teaching us just as Kami'izumi Ise no Kami hidetsuna did his disciples. Vagabond is true art, full of Inoues soul. I appreciate this volume so much !
Volume 8 - 4 stars
Another truly admirable volume, Inoue knows how to create an indulging beautiful story. I loved the sequence of Shinnosuke, his past was saddening but I enjoyed seeing the outcome unfold. I love Musashi so much, he's such a great character and although his growth has exceeded his past, there's is still so long to go and I'm strapped in for the ride ! I love Mususahi's story.
I also love how Inoue has created a character or family in this case, that I absolutely despise - the Hon'iden family, it's a shame to even say their name. I cannot believe the audacity this family has, I'm anticipating their downfall, hate to say it, but it's true - or hopefully they bow down to Musashi's sword whilst Otsu's by his side :) I loved this volume, I cannot wait to continue !
Volume 9 - 4 stars
Not too much happened in this volume, however everything that did occur was done brilliantly. I love how this story is progressing, Musashi is growing at a rapid pace, I love the concept of the peony in this volume and I'm intrigued to find out what it means to Musashi and Yagyū Sekishūsai. I'm very excited to see the progression of Hyōgono-suke as a character either as Musashi's friend or Otsū's lover. Also I love Jōtarō's development into a swordsman, this is intriguing stuff, I'm so excited to continue on, I love Vagabond ! Inoue's a genius !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2021
What is there left unsaid about Vagabond? It is a literary masterpiece, up there on the top with the best of the best. It is an experience that is unparalleled by most manga I have read before. I put Vagabond with Lone Wolf and Cub as the best manga I have ever read.
Volume 3 wraps up the Hozoin arc with a marvelous battle between Inshun and Takezo, who is now known as Misashi Miyamoto. It is a fight not just of martial prowess and skill, but also a clash of minds and auras. The end was pretty much satisfying, but you know, Inshun is just the start, as there are fighters whonare way more strojg tham him.
Yagyu arc presents a different aura. It is much more refined and calculated than before, somehow reflecting Musashi Miyamoto's character development. He's still the arrogant, self-centered beast like before, but at least now plans than just fighting his way towards becoming the invincible one.
It is in the details that make this volume so warm, from the old man's pickles to how the Peony flower is cut, Vagabond is not just a fighting seinen manga, but also a journey that is so much alive as it is dangerous.
Volume 3 wraps up the Hozoin arc with a marvelous battle between Inshun and Takezo, who is now known as Misashi Miyamoto. It is a fight not just of martial prowess and skill, but also a clash of minds and auras. The end was pretty much satisfying, but you know, Inshun is just the start, as there are fighters whonare way more strojg tham him.
Yagyu arc presents a different aura. It is much more refined and calculated than before, somehow reflecting Musashi Miyamoto's character development. He's still the arrogant, self-centered beast like before, but at least now plans than just fighting his way towards becoming the invincible one.
It is in the details that make this volume so warm, from the old man's pickles to how the Peony flower is cut, Vagabond is not just a fighting seinen manga, but also a journey that is so much alive as it is dangerous.
July 22, 2022
If you are able to endure a long hard winter...a fresh new spring is sure to follow...invigorated with strength renewed...
April 21, 2022
Really enjoyed this installment too :)
April 18, 2020
Lot of action, stunning art, good story and cast and also a bit of zen. Really good issues and series so far!
August 8, 2020
They Don't Do Anything For A Whole Damn Volume Yet I Loved It
Alright y'all. I guess I'm just crazy, Because I read over 4 volumes of Vagabond today. So is the series that good? Am I fast reader? Or was It just a slow day at the office for a 14 hour shift? Probably a little of all three actually...
Spoilers Ahead. Cause you know, you need warnings about that stuff nowadays.
What I Liked-
-So we get a rematch between Inshun and Musashi to start things up. They pull the trope of two skilled warriors not throwing a single blow until both are worn out from standing in focus for so long. I say it took a whole volume for them to finish the fight and that yes, they did just stand around but It didn't feel like it. I flew through this. I loved it. Was it he best fight? No. Was it trying to be? Hell no. It served the story and it served both characters well.
-I love Matahachi's journey. I like his resolve, despite being a piece of shit. I dig it.
-I also enjoyed the flashback had us connect with the character of the future arc.
What I Didn't Liked-
-There are FAR, FAR too many happenstance meetups in this manga. We had about 5 or 6 happenstance meetups in this. Densichiro and Musashi, Musashi and Cho, Otsu and Jotaro, Matahachi and his mother, etc. It's a very weak storytelling point and though some of them (Like Musashi and Cho) I think worked very well, I typically don't love when this is used as often as it's being used. The chances of meeting someone at the same exact time of going up to a mountain are very slim in my eyes. It was a bit much.
-Jotaro, he seems like a forced parallel that I don't need.
-Musashi has developed. But he continues to be very one note for me. I wish they would give him something besides "I want to be the strongest, the most invincible" It definitely gets old.
-This is a historic fiction, so the history SHOULD be prominent but it isn't very. And the time they do use the history it is so heavy exposition that I barely retain any of it.
Other Thoughts-
-I think I realized that the pacing in this series was super off. I originally praised it in Volume 1. But really, I do believe that the waiting around fight could have been told in 2-3 chapters but instead it was a volume and a half. Just something to think about moving forward, sometimes it's great to take your time. But when we're spending so much time on such a minuscule moment, and I know the arguments will come. I don't know where the stories going, but I don't see Inshun being a major player moving forward. I would have actually preferred if he died.
-I think I finally understand where the story is going. It has become more clear to me. Whether that's a good or a bad thing we will have to wait and see. I did just purchase the next two VIZBIG volumes so I'm still into it!
Alright y'all. I guess I'm just crazy, Because I read over 4 volumes of Vagabond today. So is the series that good? Am I fast reader? Or was It just a slow day at the office for a 14 hour shift? Probably a little of all three actually...
Spoilers Ahead. Cause you know, you need warnings about that stuff nowadays.
What I Liked-
-So we get a rematch between Inshun and Musashi to start things up. They pull the trope of two skilled warriors not throwing a single blow until both are worn out from standing in focus for so long. I say it took a whole volume for them to finish the fight and that yes, they did just stand around but It didn't feel like it. I flew through this. I loved it. Was it he best fight? No. Was it trying to be? Hell no. It served the story and it served both characters well.
-I love Matahachi's journey. I like his resolve, despite being a piece of shit. I dig it.
-I also enjoyed the flashback had us connect with the character of the future arc.
What I Didn't Liked-
-There are FAR, FAR too many happenstance meetups in this manga. We had about 5 or 6 happenstance meetups in this. Densichiro and Musashi, Musashi and Cho, Otsu and Jotaro, Matahachi and his mother, etc. It's a very weak storytelling point and though some of them (Like Musashi and Cho) I think worked very well, I typically don't love when this is used as often as it's being used. The chances of meeting someone at the same exact time of going up to a mountain are very slim in my eyes. It was a bit much.
-Jotaro, he seems like a forced parallel that I don't need.
-Musashi has developed. But he continues to be very one note for me. I wish they would give him something besides "I want to be the strongest, the most invincible" It definitely gets old.
-This is a historic fiction, so the history SHOULD be prominent but it isn't very. And the time they do use the history it is so heavy exposition that I barely retain any of it.
Other Thoughts-
-I think I realized that the pacing in this series was super off. I originally praised it in Volume 1. But really, I do believe that the waiting around fight could have been told in 2-3 chapters but instead it was a volume and a half. Just something to think about moving forward, sometimes it's great to take your time. But when we're spending so much time on such a minuscule moment, and I know the arguments will come. I don't know where the stories going, but I don't see Inshun being a major player moving forward. I would have actually preferred if he died.
-I think I finally understand where the story is going. It has become more clear to me. Whether that's a good or a bad thing we will have to wait and see. I did just purchase the next two VIZBIG volumes so I'm still into it!
March 3, 2021
The saga of Musashi continues. A good portion of this omnibus volume covers the duel between Musashi and Inshun which I did not find very interesting in the first place. It also gets repetitive with both characters reflecting on "I want to be stronger!" every few pages. It's a tired anime trope and it's just as or even more tiring when reading it.
Musashi is still in his young annoying challenge everyone stage. And his young kid apprentice, like most child sidekicks, is an annoying hanger-on. I'm really hoping the series gets better.
Musashi is still in his young annoying challenge everyone stage. And his young kid apprentice, like most child sidekicks, is an annoying hanger-on. I'm really hoping the series gets better.
September 19, 2024
Genuinely one of the best manga volumes I’ve read. Stunning. Beautiful. The fight between Inshun and Musashi was gorgeous and touching. I am so invested in this story and cannot wait to read it to its completion.
October 12, 2025
Favorite one so far. I loved seeing Musashi's growth and the panels with just the stars and the night sky and with (someone's) ghost nearly made me cry. Hoping we continue to get to see Mushashi's growth in the future.
January 1, 2023
I’m left on a cliffhanger and now I have more of an urge to get a hold of volume 4
May 29, 2023
Beginning to see more of a maturity with Musashi! Definitely thinking more before acting
January 5, 2024
“So many things in this world cannot be expressed with words. Some things can NOT be explained. They must be experienced…”
February 24, 2025
He just like me fr. (We share zero characteristics beyond long hair)
September 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this section of the story, it was well paced with little distraction, however I did feel that it dragged a little in the first half with the build to the first duel.
September 10, 2021
This volume was great!!
January 11, 2024
Coolest thing ever as per usual
October 15, 2024
5/5 🌟
It just keeps getting better.
It just keeps getting better.
June 24, 2025
Giga chad
May 4, 2021
The depth and dilemmas of Musashi regarding the big fight were totally immersive.
May 30, 2020
After escaping death by running away from his losing battle against Inshun Hōzōin, the second-generation master of the Hōzōin spear technique, Musashi Miyamoto is determined for a rematch, so he is trained under the belt of the founder of the Hōzōin-ryū school of spearmanship himself, In'ei. No doubt the battle scarred him as Musashi constantly sees the face of his opponent. This compels him to commit a sneak attack against Inshun, only for Musashi to see the ghost of his swordsman father.
Considering that Musashi has always been headstrong, his gleeful blood thirst can get the better of him and needs to rely on the training, so he can learn from before commencing the battle. During a nice fire within the woods, the two men finally meet and prepare for the duel, with their respected master bearing witness. As the previous volume showcased an amazing fight sequence between these two – told over the course of seven chapters – author Takehiko Inoue does something different here, as the fight is one of stillness with Musashi and Inshin maintain their stance and stare at each other, seeing which one will make the first move, which might be their last.
During this hard stare-off, we cut back and forth from different settings, featuring other characters to flashbacks, all of which serve a purpose for this one sequence that is about strategy. In my previous review, I didn’t say much about Inshin, a character who is defined by not only his skills with a spear, but also his oddly upbeat attitude. In this volume, we get to see more about his background, which is a tragic one from what happen to his parents, which led to him perfecting his fighting skills at an early age that causes him to be isolated by other students of the school. Despite Musashi is the main character, Inoue allows enough space for other characters to learn and grow, including Inshin who goes through a sense of finality, but not in the way you think.
As always, Musashi moves on to the next adventure, reunited with his first and only apprentice Jōtarō. Seeing these two together again brings so much joy as well as humorous in terms of the banter towards each other. Not so much a relationship between a master and his young student, but more like two brothers squabbling with each other. As Musashi and Jōtarō try to break into the Yagyū Shinkage Ryū school of swordsmanship, we get to see what other recurring characters are doing at the moment, such as Otsū, who still lives with the founder of said school, Yagyū Sekishūsai Muneyoshi, who hears the news of his beloved grandson returning home.
Through the perspective of Otsū, there is that yearning to belong somewhere, continuing this recurring theme in the manga, which is people going through their own form of loneliness and finding their role in life. This also applies to Matahachi, now under the name of Sasaki Kojirō, who is reunited with his horrible mother Hon'iden, who is determined to not let the Hon'iden clan to fall into tarnish, whilst exacting revenge on both Musashi and Otsū. Through a bit of misinformation, Matahachi is sticking with his new identity with the hope of besting his former friend.
Once again, Inoue’s art continues to be breathtaking with the majority of the series is told in a common manga style. The art does change, from the sketchy style done in flashbacks, whilst there are a number of pages done in almost pitch-black brush strokes. Along with the highly detailed background art, Inoue is also a master of facial expressions that actually gives the book moments of levity. Vagabond is a series that continues to consistently great and I look forward to the future confrontations and hopefully a romantic rekindling.
Considering that Musashi has always been headstrong, his gleeful blood thirst can get the better of him and needs to rely on the training, so he can learn from before commencing the battle. During a nice fire within the woods, the two men finally meet and prepare for the duel, with their respected master bearing witness. As the previous volume showcased an amazing fight sequence between these two – told over the course of seven chapters – author Takehiko Inoue does something different here, as the fight is one of stillness with Musashi and Inshin maintain their stance and stare at each other, seeing which one will make the first move, which might be their last.
During this hard stare-off, we cut back and forth from different settings, featuring other characters to flashbacks, all of which serve a purpose for this one sequence that is about strategy. In my previous review, I didn’t say much about Inshin, a character who is defined by not only his skills with a spear, but also his oddly upbeat attitude. In this volume, we get to see more about his background, which is a tragic one from what happen to his parents, which led to him perfecting his fighting skills at an early age that causes him to be isolated by other students of the school. Despite Musashi is the main character, Inoue allows enough space for other characters to learn and grow, including Inshin who goes through a sense of finality, but not in the way you think.
As always, Musashi moves on to the next adventure, reunited with his first and only apprentice Jōtarō. Seeing these two together again brings so much joy as well as humorous in terms of the banter towards each other. Not so much a relationship between a master and his young student, but more like two brothers squabbling with each other. As Musashi and Jōtarō try to break into the Yagyū Shinkage Ryū school of swordsmanship, we get to see what other recurring characters are doing at the moment, such as Otsū, who still lives with the founder of said school, Yagyū Sekishūsai Muneyoshi, who hears the news of his beloved grandson returning home.
Through the perspective of Otsū, there is that yearning to belong somewhere, continuing this recurring theme in the manga, which is people going through their own form of loneliness and finding their role in life. This also applies to Matahachi, now under the name of Sasaki Kojirō, who is reunited with his horrible mother Hon'iden, who is determined to not let the Hon'iden clan to fall into tarnish, whilst exacting revenge on both Musashi and Otsū. Through a bit of misinformation, Matahachi is sticking with his new identity with the hope of besting his former friend.
Once again, Inoue’s art continues to be breathtaking with the majority of the series is told in a common manga style. The art does change, from the sketchy style done in flashbacks, whilst there are a number of pages done in almost pitch-black brush strokes. Along with the highly detailed background art, Inoue is also a master of facial expressions that actually gives the book moments of levity. Vagabond is a series that continues to consistently great and I look forward to the future confrontations and hopefully a romantic rekindling.
February 25, 2019
I'm repeating myself for sure but this is becoming my favorite manga series.
Musashi learns quickly to become a better swordsman and while he still has his flaws, mainly with keeping his composure, he is stronger than anyone he's facing up against. The battle against Inshun was exciting even though they weren't fighting. It was a battle of the minds. Who can withstand the pressure of being in mortal combat? Who is making the first move? Who has the upper hand? It was amazing and the flashbacks of In'ei were great inserts.
The art was always amazingly beautiful. I can't stress enough how much I love to look at the drawings.
Musashi learns quickly to become a better swordsman and while he still has his flaws, mainly with keeping his composure, he is stronger than anyone he's facing up against. The battle against Inshun was exciting even though they weren't fighting. It was a battle of the minds. Who can withstand the pressure of being in mortal combat? Who is making the first move? Who has the upper hand? It was amazing and the flashbacks of In'ei were great inserts.
The art was always amazingly beautiful. I can't stress enough how much I love to look at the drawings.
March 1, 2011
The only problem I have with this manga is that I wish the pacing was quicker. But it's only a tiny wish, otherwise this is as perfect as samurai manga can be with awesome art.
January 15, 2023
More of a 2 and a half tbh I'm not sure if I've already mentioned this in previous Vagabond reviews but the art style is what mostly carries, not the writing itself. Even critics seem to praise the art more than the writing and the full colour pages are absolutely stunning, chef's kiss. In terms of writing and plot, it's very circular. Musashi does seem to grow as a person in that he becomes less aggressive over time though still carries the same spirit to become the strongest swordfighter on the planet.
The historical background makes this a better read and invites the reader to feel as though he's a part of the given context, as though a sword or a flower in a narrative which is violent yet determines what makes a man, a man. The masculinity portrayed within would certainly be deemed sexist by woke feminists today but it's true that men ought to strive to be the best in their bloodline. I see quotes from this series showing up on my tiktok feed and it's weird that they're so accurate and thought provoking, yet I never seem to find them when I'm actually reading the series.
I think this volume will be the end of the line for this series for me because Musashi will just go on to travel around the country and find a stronger opponent to beat until he probably eventually dies so there's not much to motivate or drive me to continue. I kind of get the point you know? Inoue is also popular for his basketball series Slam Dunk and I'm willing to give that another go. He has a way with writing characters and their backgrounds and striking fear into the hearts of both readers and other characters within the same narrative alike. There aren't many scenes which truly scare but rather scenes and entire chapters which serve as empty threats or loose ends. The way Inoue included the spiritual world to demonstrate the past was close to perfect.
The information towards the end about the clans and the most relevant samurai warriors in history is interesting but also doesn't fit into my usual expectations of what a manga should be. Matahachi also seems to make a brief entrance in this 3 in 1 volume but doesn't do much ngl Despite being a main character he apparently just reunites with his grandmother or tries to run away from her, I am uncertain haha Musashi's disciple is pretty cool but he killed a dog so he's not exactly in my good books either.
If you haven't already, follow me on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryco... thank you 6700!
The historical background makes this a better read and invites the reader to feel as though he's a part of the given context, as though a sword or a flower in a narrative which is violent yet determines what makes a man, a man. The masculinity portrayed within would certainly be deemed sexist by woke feminists today but it's true that men ought to strive to be the best in their bloodline. I see quotes from this series showing up on my tiktok feed and it's weird that they're so accurate and thought provoking, yet I never seem to find them when I'm actually reading the series.
I think this volume will be the end of the line for this series for me because Musashi will just go on to travel around the country and find a stronger opponent to beat until he probably eventually dies so there's not much to motivate or drive me to continue. I kind of get the point you know? Inoue is also popular for his basketball series Slam Dunk and I'm willing to give that another go. He has a way with writing characters and their backgrounds and striking fear into the hearts of both readers and other characters within the same narrative alike. There aren't many scenes which truly scare but rather scenes and entire chapters which serve as empty threats or loose ends. The way Inoue included the spiritual world to demonstrate the past was close to perfect.
The information towards the end about the clans and the most relevant samurai warriors in history is interesting but also doesn't fit into my usual expectations of what a manga should be. Matahachi also seems to make a brief entrance in this 3 in 1 volume but doesn't do much ngl Despite being a main character he apparently just reunites with his grandmother or tries to run away from her, I am uncertain haha Musashi's disciple is pretty cool but he killed a dog so he's not exactly in my good books either.
If you haven't already, follow me on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thepoetryco... thank you 6700!
May 16, 2021
The end of Volume 2 concluded with Musashi in a humiliating retreat from his duel with Inshun. He begins this book embarrassed, ashamed and even more determined to win, to become master of the sword.
His fear of Inshun seems to be more of a reflection of his fear of his father, perhaps his fear that he's become cold and unforgiving like his father. Perhaps defeating Ishun will banish that ghost forever.
Sometimes it seems he just wants to die, to get it all over with... but then he thinks of Otsu, a girl he likes a lot more than he realised and she helps remind him that he wants to live. It's one of the first indications that his feelings for her and more than as a friend and it's nice to see Musashi thinking of something other than becoming invincible for a change.
The duel between Inshun and Musashi begins, but nobody moves for something like five chapters. They're just standing there staring each other down. It sounds ridiculous but Takehiko Inoue takes the time to slow things down, go into the mindset of both Musashi and Inshun, giving the reader a good idea of the motivation for each character and how much of the battle takes place before anyone has swung a weapon.
"We're not so different, you and I..." is an old trope, but I do like how it's deployed here. Musashi and Inshun both want to become invincible, both have their reasons that stem from childhood trauma, and both are missing something that they're unaware of.
I appreciate that it's not until after the battle that we see why Inshun is the way he is, as Musashi learns to see him in a new light, perhaps too late, so do we.
His fear of Inshun seems to be more of a reflection of his fear of his father, perhaps his fear that he's become cold and unforgiving like his father. Perhaps defeating Ishun will banish that ghost forever.
Sometimes it seems he just wants to die, to get it all over with... but then he thinks of Otsu, a girl he likes a lot more than he realised and she helps remind him that he wants to live. It's one of the first indications that his feelings for her and more than as a friend and it's nice to see Musashi thinking of something other than becoming invincible for a change.
The duel between Inshun and Musashi begins, but nobody moves for something like five chapters. They're just standing there staring each other down. It sounds ridiculous but Takehiko Inoue takes the time to slow things down, go into the mindset of both Musashi and Inshun, giving the reader a good idea of the motivation for each character and how much of the battle takes place before anyone has swung a weapon.
"We're not so different, you and I..." is an old trope, but I do like how it's deployed here. Musashi and Inshun both want to become invincible, both have their reasons that stem from childhood trauma, and both are missing something that they're unaware of.
I appreciate that it's not until after the battle that we see why Inshun is the way he is, as Musashi learns to see him in a new light, perhaps too late, so do we.
January 6, 2026
Pains me to rate it so low. especially with how it kicked off. Vol. 7, the first volume here, is simply incredible and was an easy 5 star, the first and only one so far. It was quite slow, yes, but that pin drop pace is what I loved about it. It's deliberate with an engrossing atmosphere that feels palpable right off the page. The art is jaw dropping, with beautifully etched shadows on every other page creating a heavily cinematic aesthetic complimented by the cuts to gorgeous landscapes and minute details in the environment. The dialogue too was at its best and all these aspects produced a perfect manga volume.
Vol. 8 had more of most of the same but then it introduced some seemingly supernatural elements as an excuse for infodumping. That I didn't mind too much but then came a sexual assault scene with I believe to be an excessive amount of (exclusively female) nudity. That ruined the spell bound by volume 7 and took me out of the story for a good while. Unfortunately I never reached that enchantment again during the rest of this omnibus.
Vol. 9 didn't have much objectional content but it didn't have much beyond setup either. It's decent at what it's supposed to do but it's just not as robust as the content around it.
A 7/10. It could have gone both ways for a 3 or a 4 star but the ickiness of that rape scene bring it down for me. I think it'll also be putting my readthrough on a hiatus till at least my exams are over. Even with that in mind I don't find myself in a hurry to return, unfortunately.
Vol. 8 had more of most of the same but then it introduced some seemingly supernatural elements as an excuse for infodumping. That I didn't mind too much but then came a sexual assault scene with I believe to be an excessive amount of (exclusively female) nudity. That ruined the spell bound by volume 7 and took me out of the story for a good while. Unfortunately I never reached that enchantment again during the rest of this omnibus.
Vol. 9 didn't have much objectional content but it didn't have much beyond setup either. It's decent at what it's supposed to do but it's just not as robust as the content around it.
A 7/10. It could have gone both ways for a 3 or a 4 star but the ickiness of that rape scene bring it down for me. I think it'll also be putting my readthrough on a hiatus till at least my exams are over. Even with that in mind I don't find myself in a hurry to return, unfortunately.
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