The Yakuza trace their lineage back to the 18th century samurai, left masterless following political upheaval, who turned to lives of crime. After centuries, the Yakuza is still going strong, following both tradition and new avenues of illicit revenue.
Nov 2020
The Yakuza Part 2: The Rise and Fall of Japan's Feared Mafia
In part two of our Yakuza deep dive, we plot their post-war rise from hustlers to corporate raiders - and a smack back down to earth. There are wars, kamikaze assassinations, CIA stings and the growth of the Yamaguchi-gumi, a mob so powerful it has its logo on the door. Learn mor ... Show More
36m 5s
Nov 2020
The Yakuza Part 1: The Rise and Fall of Japan's Feared Mafia
Is there an organized crime group more iconic than Japan's Yakuza? In part one of two episodes on the group-or web of groups-we plunge into their ancient history, traditions, and how the Second World War made gangs of thieves into multi-billionaire magnates. Oh, and we'll unpack ... Show More
31m 42s
Jul 2025
Kazuo Taoka: The Japanese Godfather
Once a street orphan, Kazuo Taoka rose to become Japan’s most feared yakuza boss—transforming the Yamaguchi-gumi into a criminal empire that blended blood, business, and showbiz. Here's how. Sponsor:shopify.com/casual - start your $1 per month trial today Learn more about your ad ... Show More
2h 30m