Nakano Takeko

Nakano Takeko (1847–1868) was a Japanese onna-bugeisha of the Aizu domain during the Boshin War. Trained in martial arts and literature, she led a group of female warriors called the Joshitai. Armed with a naginata, she fought bravely in the Battle of Aizu. Fatally wounded, she asked her sister to behead her to protect her honor. She is remembered as one of Japan’s most famous female samurai.