* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Taira no Atsumori
平敦盛
Taira Clan Warrior, Master Flautist
Description
Life
Born in 1169 as the youngest son of Taira no Tsunemori, younger brother of Taira no Kiyomori. Raised as a young noble of the Taira clan, he was known as a master of the flute, said to have inherited the flute "Aoba" (also known as "Saeda"), reportedly bestowed upon his grandfather Taira no Tadamori by the retired Emperor Toba.
The Battle of Ichi-no-Tani
In 1184, during the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani, the Taira forces collapsed under a surprise attack by the Minamoto. As Atsumori tried to flee on horseback to a ship offshore, he was called back by the Minamoto warrior Kumagai Naozane, who told him it was cowardly to show his back to an enemy. Pinned down and unable to escape, Atsumori asked to be killed without revealing his name, and was beheaded by Naozane. He was 17 (sometimes given as 16 by traditional count).
The Flute Aoba
Hidden in Atsumori's robes was his beloved flute, Aoba. Seeing it, Kumagai Naozane was deeply moved by having killed such a young and refined nobleman, and is said to have later renounced the warrior's life and become a Buddhist monk, questioning the violence of his profession. The flute is said to have eventually been delivered, via Naozane, to Atsumori's father, Tsunemori.
Later Reputation
The duel with Kumagai Naozane is one of the most celebrated scenes in the Tale of the Heike, and together with the story of the flute Aoba it has been retold repeatedly in Noh drama, Kabuki, and popular song. A memorial mound and relics associated with Atsumori are preserved to this day at Suma-dera temple near the site of the battle, and he is remembered as a tragic young nobleman cut down in the prime of youth.
Related Warriors
平知盛
Late Heian PeriodTaira no Tomoori
Ikari Tomoori—The Valiant Taira General Who Sank at Dannoura, the Tragic Warrior Who Left Behind the Famous Words 'I Have Seen All That Was Worth Seeing'
源義朝
Late Heian PeriodMinamoto no Yoshitomo
Tragic Warrior of the Heiji Rebellion — Father of Yoritomo
熊谷直実
Late Heian PeriodKumagai Naozane
Warrior Who Killed Taira no Atsumori at Ichinotani, Later Became a Monk
平重盛
Late Heian PeriodTaira no Shigemori
Minister of the Interior at the Height of Taira Power, Warrior of Benevolence