Objective:

• To score the most points by the end of the game by optimizing the movements and actions of your three characters: the Samurai, the Merchant, and the Artist.
  

Setup:

1. Players: 2 players.

2. Game Board:

   • Place the Tokaido: Duo game board in the center, featuring different regions and paths.

   • Each region has specific spaces marked for the Samurai, Merchant, and Artist.

3. Character Setup:

   • Each player takes three character tokens: one Samurai, one Merchant, and one Artist, and places them at the starting locations on the board as indicated.

   • Each player also takes a Character Card for each of their three characters, which explains their movement options and goals.

4. Action Tiles and Tokens:

   • Set up the various tokens and tiles, including Encounter Tiles, Landscape Tokens, Item Tokens, and Objective Tiles in their respective areas on the board.

5. Start Player:

   • Determine the first player by any preferred method. The first player takes the first turn, then play alternates between the two players.
     

Gameplay:

The game is played over a series of rounds, with each round consisting of both players taking a turn. On a player's turn, they must move one of their three characters according to its movement rules and perform the associated action:

1. Movement Rules:

   • Samurai: Moves across the regions on the board, aiming to protect the villages by reaching specific spaces. The Samurai can move to any unoccupied space within the same region.

   • Merchant: Moves along the trade route, collecting items and making trades. The Merchant must move exactly three spaces forward on the trade route.

   • Artist: Moves around the island to paint landscapes and create masterpieces. The Artist moves exactly two spaces forward along the artist's path.

2. Actions:

   • After moving a character, perform the action associated with the space they landed on:

     • Samurai: Protects the region and earns points for each village they secure.

     • Merchant: Collects or trades items, earning points based on completed sets.

     • Artist: Collects landscape tokens to complete paintings, earning points for each completed masterpiece.

3. Special Tiles and Encounters:

   • Some spaces trigger special encounters or grant tiles that provide additional points or abilities.

4. Objective Cards:

   • Players may also draw or fulfill Objective Cards, which provide bonus points for achieving specific goals with their characters.
     

Scoring:

• Samurai: Earns points by protecting villages and completing protection objectives.

• Merchant: Scores points for collecting and trading items, as well as completing item sets.

• Artist: Gains points by painting landscapes and completing full landscape sets.
  

End of the Game:

• The game ends when all three characters have reached their final destination on the board.

• Players then tally their points from the Samurai, Merchant, and Artist, including any bonus points from completed objectives.
  

Winning:

• The player with the highest total points at the end of the game wins.
  

Tips for Playing:

• Plan Ahead: Think several moves ahead to ensure your characters can reach the most valuable spaces.

• Balance Character Movements: Use each character's unique movement rules to your advantage and avoid getting blocked by your opponent.

• Maximize Points: Focus on completing sets and objectives for the best chance of winning.