Top 10 Coolest Things About Goemon Ishikawa XIII

For decades, Goemon Ishikawa XIII has been a central figure in the ‘Lupin the Third’ series, offering a contrast of traditional swordsmanship and strict discipline within a world of thieves, high-tech gadgets, and international adventures. As the thirteenth in a long line of skilled swordsmen, he upholds age-old traditions while working alongside Lupin’s crew. Goemon’s character is a unique blend of Japanese folklore, intense martial arts training, and a striking visual style, making him truly memorable.

Zantetsuken: The meteoric blade

Goemon’s sword, the Zantetsuken, is often depicted as being made from a special material like a meteorite, though its origins change depending on the specific game or story. Throughout the series, it’s shown effortlessly cutting through things like cars, guns, and strong obstacles with a quick, skillful draw. The sword works by hitting the weak point of an object at just the right moment, rather than just using raw power. Goemon consistently shows he cares for and respects the blade, and maintaining it is an important part of who he is.

Master of iai and classical kenjutsu

Goemon is a swordsman who specializes in *iai*, a technique where he draws his sword and strikes in one smooth motion. He focuses on perfect form, breath control, and delivering a cut the very moment his blade is out of its sheath. Often, the speed of his attacks is shown by the environment not reacting until *after* he’s already sheathed his sword. This emphasizes that his fighting style is all about precise timing and efficient movements.

A samurai code in a modern world

Goemon lives by a strong moral code similar to the way of the samurai, valuing self-control, honesty, and unwavering loyalty to those he trusts. He lives simply, constantly trains, and resists overindulgence, even when others are celebrating. This often creates conflict when his principles clash with the crew’s more practical or opportunistic ideas, leading to key moments where he chooses honor over what’s easiest. This internal struggle is central to his character and drives many of his most important decisions.

The namesake’s historical roots

The character is presented as a relative and namesake of Ishikawa Goemon, a famous 16th-century outlaw known for bold robberies and legendary tales. This family history explains the “XIII” in his name and connects him to a rich, historical past. The series uses this connection to combine imagery from the past with modern settings, and to explain why he values tradition even in a futuristic world.

Precision catchphrase and its meaning

After defeating an enemy with a powerful strike, Goemon frequently says something along the lines of “I have defeated a worthless object.” This isn’t a celebration of violence, but rather a way for him to acknowledge that while necessary, the fight was unfortunate. It’s his way of judging the circumstances, not bragging about his abilities. The fact that he says this repeatedly throughout the series makes it a recognizable part of his character, signaling that a conflict has been resolved.

Role within Lupin’s crew

Goemon is Lupin’s problem-solver when plans go wrong or bullets fly. He works with Jigen, providing close-up support while Lupin adapts on the spot, especially when quick action is needed. Though he’s often hesitant at first, once Goemon commits to a task, he executes it with incredible focus. This clear division of skills keeps the team’s boldness in check and ensures they’re precise in their work.

Iconic look and traditional kit

Goemon’s appearance is rooted in classic Japanese clothing – he wears hakama pants, kimonos or yukata, and wooden geta sandals, along with long, straight hair. He carries his sword, the Zantetsuken, with a sense of formality, emphasizing the ritualistic nature of his actions. Animators portray him with simple, elegant lines and a calm demeanor, which makes his sudden bursts of activity even more striking. This traditional look stands out against modern settings, making his appearances immediately memorable.

Sword lore: limits, upkeep, and rare failures

Despite being shown as able to cut through nearly anything, the Zantetsuken isn’t invincible. Stories sometimes reveal it has limits, requiring precise timing or struggling with exceptionally hard materials. We often see Goemon maintaining the blade – cleaning, sharpening, or even seeking help from experts – after it’s been pushed to its limits. These moments emphasize that caring for the weapon and understanding its craftsmanship are just as important as the blade itself, and they often lead to storylines about tradition, the science of metals, and achieving true skill.

‘Lupin the IIIrd: Goemon’s Blood Spray’ (2017)

This story arc shows Goemon evolving from a simple protector into the skilled swordsman fans know and love. A major challenge reveals what’s at stake if he fails, leading him to undergo intense retraining. He redefines his goals and sharpens his skills while facing immense pressure. The narrative delves into Goemon’s thoughts and feelings, all while maintaining exciting action sequences and carefully choreographed fights. This focus on dedication and overcoming adversity enriches his character development in later stories.

‘Lupin the Third: The Fuma Conspiracy’ (1987)

As a huge fan of classic cinema, I was really drawn into this film. It’s centered around a long-standing feud with a ninja clan, but what I loved most was how it made Goemon’s personal life – especially his upcoming marriage – a key part of the story. It felt complicated, because old family grudges kept getting in the way. The plot itself uses a lot of familiar themes – hidden treasure, rival families, and the weight of duty – but it’s all done so well. The action sequences are incredible; you really get a sense of Goemon’s skill as he battles through traps and takes on some seriously tough enemies. Ultimately, the movie beautifully highlights how important tradition and family are to him and how those values drive everything he does.

I’m a huge Goemon fan, and I’d love to hear about your favorite moments too! Let’s chat about which version of this incredible swordsman really clicks with you – who’s your Goemon and why?

2025-10-16 09:15