7.9/10362 votes#1 - Part 1
Season 1 Episode 1 - Aired 9/15/1980
Set in early 17th-century Japan, shipwrecked English navigator John Blackthorne finds intrigue and culture shock in a feudal society that puts a premium on honor. A rival Lord sentences Blackthorne to death.
Director: Jerry London
Writer: Eric Bercovici
8.0/10326 votes#2 - Part 2
Season 1 Episode 2 - Aired 9/16/1980
After Lord Toronaga rescues Blackthorn from prison, he enlists him as his aide and names him, 'Anjin-san'. Mariko is directed to tutor Anjin-san in the language and customs of Japan.
Director: Jerry London
Writer: Eric Bercovici
8.1/10304 votes#3 - Part 3
Season 1 Episode 3 - Aired 9/17/1980
Blackthorne and Mariko begin a romance; Toronaga continues to build his army for a battle with Ishido. Anjin-san proves his mettle during an earthquake and is honored by Toranaga for bravery. Mariko's husband Buntaro, arrives in Anjiro.
Director: Jerry London
Writer: Eric Bercovici
8.0/10294 votes#4 - Part 4
Season 1 Episode 4 - Aired 9/18/1980
Anjin-san's assimilation of Japanese ways is evident in his exemplary conduct. Toranaga decides to return the Erasmus to Anjin-san. Mariko tells Father Alvito of a plot to murder a Christian lord on the Council of Regents.
Director: Jerry London
Writer: Eric Bercovici
8.1/10283 votes#5 - Part 5
Season 1 Episode 5 - Aired 9/19/1980
Treachery, tragedy and turns of events occur. Toronaga becomes SHOGUN after the defeat of Lord Ishido. Mariko is killed in the final battle at Osaka Castle. Heartbroken, but resolute, Blackthorne begins construction of another ship.
Director: Jerry London
Writer: Eric Bercovici
The Best Episodes of Shōgun Season 1
Every episode of Shōgun Season 1 ranked from best to worst. Discover the Best Episodes of Shōgun Season 1!
An English navigator becomes both a player and pawn in complex political games in feudal Japan.
Genres:Action & AdventureDramaWar & Politics
Network:NBC
Season 1 Ratings Summary
"Part 1" is the best rated episode of "Shōgun" season 1. It scored 7.9/10 based on 362 votes. Directed by Jerry London and written by Eric Bercovici, it aired on 9/15/1980. This episode is rated 0.1 points higher than the second-best, "Part 2".