For many of us, our overriding image of Japan’s samurai comes from a school trip where we stood in front of a suit of armour and were told about fearless warriors, epic battles and an unbreakable code ...

Though their meticulously crafted battle armor and elaborate helmets shaped into utterly frightening countenances could fill the hearts of any foe with terror, Japan's famous samurai warriors also had ...

It was intended only for samurai of high rank who rode on horseback. The armour had a large plate on its left side that ...