"[1] Satō is most well known for saving his master Yoshitsune's life at Yoshino, a story recorded in the Gikeiki.

Whilst travelling to Kyushu to escape from the troops of his brother Yoritomo, Yoshitsune and his forces were beset by the monks of Zo-o-no, and were facing defeat.

)[2] Disguised as Yoshitsune, Satō challenged and fought the group's pursuers, killing or wounding around twenty men.

[3] His widow, Kaede, along with her sister-in-law Wakazakura, attempted to comfort his grieving mother by presenting herself wearing her late husband's armour.

[5] A popular story regarding Satō Tadanobu's death involves him being attacked whilst playing a game of go.