In a futuristic yet feudal Japan, it is said that the one who becomes "No. 1" will rule the world, wielding powers akin to a god. Someone becomes No. 1 by killing the previous No. 1 and taking his ceremonial headband. The only rule is that only the No. 2 (also designated by a sacred headband) is allowed to challenge the No. 1. In contrast, the No. 2 can be challenged by anyone (and typically everyone). Due to this, few people ever reach the mountain where No. 1 waits because the No. 2 headband is constantly changing owners. Rokutaro, the owner of the No. 1 headband, goes to fight a gunslinger named Justice, the owner of the No. 2 headband. The two cross swords and it ends with Justice decapitating Rokutaro and claming his headband. Rokutaro's head rolls in front of his son, a young boy named Afro, as he sobs and vows revenge. Now an adult, Afro Samurai is the current No. 2 and a master swordsman. He travels Japan trying to make his way to the mountain-top keep where Justice awaits.