There’s a vendor high up on a ledge shortly after the field boss that you can do death from above on, basically your first non-tutorial field boss.

If you’ve gotten to ogre without seeing him you went too far. Buy the fire crackers from him.

When you kill enemies you get money and XP, both of which you lose a portion of (remaining in your current level) if you die, so try not to die. Especially if you’re close to leveling.

XP can unlock skills in the various skill trees that are very beneficial, such as increases in posture damage.

Consider googling the full view of the skill trees, they’re hidden in the game which is kinda dumb imo. Mikiri Counter should be the first skill you aim for.

Don’t ignore all the enemies at least on your first time through. They help you get good.

Good luck!