In Japan, the samurai were a class of highly skilled warriors who were expected to live by a strict code of honor. A key part of this code was the willingness to die for one's lord or cause, if necessary. The samurai also developed a range of other skills, including horsemanship, archery, and swordsmanship. In addition, they were expected to be able to read and write, and many became quite knowledgeable in a wide range of topics.
One way that young men from samurai families prepared for their future roles was by learning how to chop wood and carry water. These tasks might seem humble, but they actually required a great deal of strength and coordination. By doing these chores day in and day out, the young samurai-in-training built up the muscles and stamina they would need for combat. They also learned how to control their breathing, an important skill for staying calm in the midst of battle.
So chopping wood and carrying water may not seem like glamorous work, but it played an important role in preparing young men for life as a samurai warrior.