10 Facts About Natsume Yoshinobu

Natsume Yoshinobu was a Japanese samurai of the Sengoku period who served the Matsudaira clan.

When Tokugawa forces had to retreat at the Battle of Mikatagahara, Natsume charged into enemy ranks declaring himself to be Ieyasu; he was then killed in battle.

Natsume Yoshinobu was the son of Natsume Yoshihisa and was born in the Hazori District, Mikawa.

When Motoyasu was on the verge of being surrounded by Imagawa forces, Natsume Yoshinobu was said to be among those who volunteered for the rear guard.

Natsume Yoshinobu sought to redeem his image by helping the subjugation effort.

In 1573, regardless of whatever Natsume Yoshinobu thought of his lord afterwards, he didn't hesitate to ride to Ieyasu's rescue during the disaster at Battle of Mikatagahara.

Natsume Yoshinobu was made the main guard of Hamamatsu Castle until he noticed his lord's distress and personally rode out of the keep with twenty horsemen.

Natsume Yoshinobu was able to meet up with Ieyasu and their men frantically thrashed against Takeda Katsuyori's cavalry in hot pursuit.

Natsume Yoshinobu told Ieyasu he would pose as his lord as a decoy for the real Ieyasu to escape.

Natsume Yoshinobu mounted Ieyasu's horse and charged at the Takeda forces as promised, losing his life in battle.