In February, 1874, after the subdual of Saga War (Saga Rebellion), Samata assumed the position of Kumamoto Chindai (garrison) Sanbocho (Assistant Chief of Staff) and participated in the Taiwan expedition.
明治7年（1874年）2月佐賀の乱平定後、熊本鎮台参謀長に就任し台湾出兵に従軍。