Nakano (also referred to as "the Sorceror Nakano") was born in Japan in 926 B.C., and later studied Buddhism under Nichiren during the eleventh century A.D.

He experienced his First Death in 865 B.C., and eventually became a highly sought-after teacher, instructing mortal and Immortal alike in the power of Illusion, but this also had the unfortunate effect of making him a tempting target to those who would seek to gain the secrets of his power.

Around the year 1605, Nakano was working with his newest student, Connor MacLeod, when Connor's training with Nakano was interrupted by Kane and his henchmen, who had discovered the location of the hidden cave. Nakano realized someone had found him, and sent MacLeod away before Kane breached the cave, saying, "This is not your time, Highlander."