Hōjō Ujitsuna

Hōjō Ujitsuna (1487-1541) was the 2nd head of the Later Hojo clan and the Sengoku daimyo who further expanded upon the base established by his father Hojo Soun in Izu and Sagami, cementing Hojo dominance in the Kanto region. During Ujitsuna's era, the family name was changed from "Ise" to "Hojo," using the prestigious historical name to demonstrate their legitimacy as rulers of the Kanto.

Ujitsuna demonstrated outstanding talent not only in military strategy but also in internal administration and law. In 1531, he enacted the "Twenty-One Articles of Hojo Soun-ji Temple," codifying laws within the domain to solidify the foundation of territorial governance. He also actively expanded his territories to include Sagami, Musashi, Shimosa, and Kazusa, building a strong defensive system centered on Kawagoe Castle and Odawara Castle.

In his relationship with Japanese swords, Ujitsuna is said to have patronized the swordsmiths of the "Soshu-den" (Sagami tradition), which would later become renowned as a birthplace of legendary blades, as his base was Sagami (Odawara). The Soshu-den lineage produced master smiths including Masamune, Hiromitsu, and Sadamune. By supporting the swordsmiths who carried on this tradition, Ujitsuna contributed to the development of sword culture in the Kanto region. His practical warrior philosophy — emphasizing actual combat effectiveness — resonated with the cutting-edge sharpness and toughness characteristic of the Soshu-den style. In the precepts he set down in his final years, he counseled his successors to "value faith and righteousness," conveying the noble spirit of a true warrior.