The BEST episodes of Shogun

Every episode of Shogun ever, ranked from best to worst by thousands of votes from fans of the show. The best episodes of Shogun!

Richard Chamberlain stars as John Blackthorne, a 17th century British sea pilot in charge of a Dutch vessel. Shipwrecked off the coast of Japan, Blackthorne is in danger of being executed by the suspicious, reclusive Japanese hierarchy, but before long he has been accepted into the local culture. Accordingly, he begins to think of himself as Japanese, adopting the nation's customs and, while wearing the robes of a Samurai warrior, helping to defend the land against its enemies. The arrival of Blackthorne unfortunately arouses the interest of European empire-builders, who hope to add Japan to their holdings. Toshiro Mifune costars as Toranaga, a warlord who befriends Blackthorne, and Yoko Shimada appears as Mariko, the interpreter who eventually falls in love with the Englishman.

Last Updated: 3/9/2024Network: NBCStatus: Ended
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Part 4
star
8.28
54 votes

#1 - Part 4

Season 1 - Episode 4 - Aired 9/18/1980

Anjin-san's assimilation of Japanese ways is evident in his exemplary conduct. Toranaga decides to return the Erasmus to Anjin-san. Mariko tells Father Alvito of a plot to murder a Christian lord on the Council of Regents.

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Part 3
star
8.17
81 votes

#2 - Part 3

Season 1 - Episode 3 - Aired 9/17/1980

Blackthorne and Mariko begin a romance; Toronaga continues to build his army for a battle with Ishido. Anjin-san proves his mettle during an earthquake and is honored by Toranaga for bravery. Mariko's husband Buntaro, arrives in Anjiro.

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Part 2
star
8.15
85 votes

#3 - Part 2

Season 1 - Episode 2 - Aired 9/16/1980

After Lord Toronaga rescues Blackthorn from prison, he enlists him as his aide and names him, 'Anjin-san'. Mariko is directed to tutor Anjin-san in the language and customs of Japan.

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Part 1
star
8.06
130 votes

#4 - Part 1

Season 1 - Episode 1 - Aired 9/15/1980

Set in early 17th-century Japan, shipwrecked English navigator John Blackthorne finds intrigue and culture shock in a feudal society that puts a premium on honor. A rival Lord sentences Blackthorne to death.

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Part 5
star
8.05
42 votes

#5 - Part 5

Season 1 - Episode 5 - Aired 9/19/1980

Treachery, tragedy and turns of events occur. Toronaga becomes SHOGUN after the defeat of Lord Ishido. Mariko is killed in the final battle at Osaka Castle. Heartbroken, but resolute, Blackthorne begins construction of another ship.

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