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Bushido, or 'the way of the warrior,' was the code of moral principles which the samurai were required or instructed to observe. Its importance lies in its influence on the military and social conduct of the samurai, embedding values such as loyalty, honor, and discipline into the culture of feudal Japan.

The daimyo were powerful Japanese feudal lords who controlled vast territories and commanded private armies of samurai. They played crucial roles in the political landscape of feudal Japan, often involved in power struggles that shaped the period's history.

Samurai were equipped with a range of weapons including the katana, wakizashi, and yumi (bow). Their armor was uniquely designed to allow for mobility while providing protection. The equipment was significant as it symbolized samurai's status and was a reflection of their martial skills.

Zen Buddhism had a significant impact on the samurai class, influencing their discipline, mental focus, and acceptance of death. It provided spiritual guidance and a philosophical framework for the conduct of the samurai.

Samurai underwent rigorous training in martial arts, strategy, and also disciplines like calligraphy and poetry. Training emphasized discipline, ethical behavior, and self-improvement, which were essential for maintaining the cultural and social ideals of the samurai class.

The shogunate was a hereditary military dictatorship in Japan. The shogun held most of the actual power while the emperor was relegated to a ceremonial role. This system defined the structure of feudal government and influenced the political dynamics of the time.

The tea ceremony, or 'chanoyu', was a spiritual and social practice among the samurai focusing on the preparation, serving, and drinking of matcha. It emphasized simplicity, harmony, and respect, functioning as a peaceful contrast to the martial lifestyle of the samurai.

Seppuku was a form of ritual suicide by disembowelment, originally reserved for samurai to restore honor after a defeat or perceived shame. It highlights the extreme value placed on honor and the severe actions taken to maintain it within samurai culture.

The feudal hierarchy of Japan structured society into several classes with the emperor at the top, followed by the shoguns, daimyo, samurai, and then farmers, artisans, and merchants. This structure defined social order and dictated the distribution of power and wealth.

Japanese castles and fortifications served as residences for the daimyo, military strongholds, and symbols of power. These structures were important in the defense against rivals and provided a center for administration in their domains.

Noh Theatre was a form of entertainment enjoyed by the samurai class that combined music, dance, and drama. It reflected the aesthetic preferences and philosophical ideals of the samurai, and was often used to convey moral lessons and cultural values.

The Kamakura Period (1185-1333) was a time when the samurai class rose to power in Japan. It marked the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, the first samurai-led government, setting the stage for future military governments.

The Sengoku Period (1467-1615) was an era of constant military conflict and social upheaval. It was characterized by lawlessness and the power struggles between daimyo. The period was crucial as it led to the reunification of Japan under centralized feudal rule.

Samurai women, while not as prominently martial as their male counterparts, were trained in self-defense and household management. They played key roles in maintaining the household, educating children in samurai values, and sometimes even participated in battle or management of the domain.