Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu (1981)

A 1981 Japanese period drama from Toei Company, plunging a young swordsman into the treacherous gang rivalries of feudal Shimizu.

Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu - Movie Information

  • Original Title: 清水次郎長(1) 勢揃い清水港
  • Release Year: 1981
  • Directed by: Tetsuya Yamanouchi
  • Type: Movie
  • Original Language: Japanese
  • Spoken Languages: Japanese
  • Production Companies: Toei Company
  • Production Countries: Japan
  • Alternative Titles: Shimizu no Jirocho (JP)

Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu - Plot

Chogoro, the young master of a rice shop who receives sword lessons from Tetsusaburo Yamaoka, travels to the lawless Kanbei Onigawara family from Shimizu. All hell breaks loose when Kanbei returns with his older brother, Kitsu An Takei, and Katsuzo challenges Chogoro.

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Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Tetsuya Yamanouchi

Main Cast

  • Teruhiko Saigō
  • Chiezo Kataoka
  • Gō Katō
  • Atsuo Nakamura
  • Keiko Masuda
  • Wakiko Kano
  • Kuniko Miyake

Writers

  • 葉村彰子

Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu - FAQs

Who directed Jirocho of Shimizu 1?

Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu was directed by Tetsuya Yamanouchi. He helmed this 1981 Japanese production for Toei Company, bringing to life the classic tale of Chogoro's entry into the dangerous world of feudal gang rivalries in Shimizu.

What is Jirocho of Shimizu 1 about?

The film follows Chogoro, a young rice shop master who trains in swordsmanship under Tetsusaburo Yamaoka. He ventures into the territory of the lawless Kanbei Onigawara family in Shimizu, where tensions explode when Kanbei returns with his brother and a rival named Katsuzo issues a direct challenge.

Who are the main actors in Jirocho of Shimizu 1?

The film features a strong ensemble cast including Teruhiko Saigō, Chiezo Kataoka, Gō Katō, Atsuo Nakamura, Keiko Masuda, Wakiko Kano, and Kuniko Miyake. Chiezo Kataoka was a legendary figure of Japanese period cinema, lending the production considerable prestige.

Is Jirocho of Shimizu 1 based on a true story?

Yes, the film draws from the legendary life of Shimizu no Jirocho, a real 19th-century yakuza boss from Shimizu who became one of Japan's most celebrated folk heroes. His story has inspired countless films, novels, and stage productions throughout Japanese cultural history.

What language is Jirocho of Shimizu 1 in?

Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu is entirely in Japanese. It was produced in Japan by Toei Company, one of the country's most storied film studios, particularly renowned for its long tradition of jidaigeki — Japanese period dramas.

What are similar movies to Jirocho of Shimizu 1?

If you enjoy this film, you might also like Rurouni Kenshin: The Final, Sword Master, Gintama: The Very Final, Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny, and Memories of the Sword. These titles share a passion for martial arts, honor, and compelling period storytelling across Asian cinema.

Who wrote the screenplay for Jirocho of Shimizu 1?

The screenplay was written by 葉村彰子 (Akiko Hamura), a prolific Japanese screenwriter who contributed extensively to Toei's period drama productions. Her work helped shape many beloved jidaigeki films and television series throughout the golden era of Japanese genre cinema.

Where can I watch Jirocho of Shimizu 1?

Streaming availability for Jirocho of Shimizu 1: The Glorious Port of Shimizu varies by region. As a 1981 Toei production, it may be found through specialty platforms focusing on classic Japanese cinema. Check JustWatch to compare all current viewing options available in your area.

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