This series exceeded my expectations. I was expected another martial arts centric story. What I got was a lesson on history and culture wrapped in an engaging drama. This is one of the best shows I’ve seen in a long time. As soon as I completed the first season I checked that another was on the way. I can’t wait to see what’s next!! This show is worth the subtitles. Tthe subtitles add a layer of reverence for the story that just make sense as the story unfolds. It wouldn’t be right to have the story told in English when there’s so much focus on the extraordinary Japanese culture.