In medieval Japan, Lord Hidetora Ichimonji, an aging warlord, decides to divide his kingdom among his three sons: Taro, Jiro, and Saburo. He hopes to spend his remaining years in peace, believing his sons will rule harmoniously. However, Saburo, the youngest son, objects to the plan, sensing potential conflict. Misinterpreting Saburo's intentions as insubordination, Hidetora banishes him. Soon after, Hidetora’s assumption of peaceful succession proves horrifically flawed as Taro and Jiro reveal their true ambitions, leading to a power struggle fueled by deceit, betrayal, and treachery.

Stripped of his authority and manipulated by his remaining sons, Hidetora is driven to madness, wandering the wilderness as his once-great regime crumbles around him. Meanwhile, Saburo, who remains loyal despite his exile, attempts to rescue his father from the chaos. Numerous characters, including loyal retainers and scheming adversaries, intersect in this tragic tale of familial disintegration and the devastating consequences of pride and ambition. As the power dynamics shift, the conflicts escalate, driven by greed, vengeance, and the spirit of warfare, painting a grim picture of human nature and the relentless pursuit of power.