How to I optimize my opener and rotation as Samurai?

[Lastelli]

So for the most part, something like this:

http://i.imgur.com/1atVAsO.png

would be worth following?

Well, that's exactly what I've been doing since I hit level 70 and I can guarantee it works very well. I suggest you keep hitting the dummy after that final gekko so you understand how to manage the inevitable Meikyo+Hagakure scenario.