An Onna-musha (女武者) was a female warrior of the samurai class in feudal Japan. Unlike the more commonly known male samurai, these women were trained in combat to protect their homes, families, and honor, especially during times of war or invasion. They often came from noble or warrior families and were highly skilled with weapons such as the naginata, daggers, and sometimes swords. Many Onna-musha fought to defend their homes when male samurai were away, injured, or killed. Like male samurai, they were strategic, disciplined, and expected to follow the honor code known as bushidō.

Some of the most famous Onna-musha include Tomoe Gozen, who became legendary for her bravery and skill in battle; Nakano Takeko, who led an all-female unit during the Boshin War; and Hojo Masako, a powerful political and military leader often called the “nun shogun.” In simple terms, an Onna-musha can be understood as a female samurai warrior who was trained to fight and defend with strength, discipline, and honor.