Watch Order
0 / 7 watchedClassic run first, then modern retellings.
About Zatoichi
Zatoichi follows a blind masseur and swordsman through Edo era towns. The Tale of Zatoichi from 1962 starts the Daiei run with Shintaro Katsu, and the 1960s run reaches 25 films by 1973 with Chess Expert and Challenged as high points for sword work.
The Tale of Zatoichi Continues from 1962 can be taken second since it follows directly. Takeshi Kitano’s Zatoichi from 2003 reboots with new rhythm and color, while Zatoichi: The Last from 2010 closes the modern line. The TV series from 1974 to 1979 is an optional extra between the classic and modern films.
Good to know
Start with the 1962 original, then sample the 1960s run rather than forcing all 25 in one go. Chess Expert and Challenged show the formula at its best. Kitano’s 2003 film works as a separate start for modern viewers. The 2010 film plays as a farewell, so save it for last. No new film had been dated as of September 2026.
