Ōban (Great Watch)

The Ōban (大番, Great Watch) was a division of the samurai guard in feudal Japan, specifically during the Kamakura, Muromachi, and Edo periods. These guards were responsible for protecting important individuals and locations, primarily within the capital and castle towns.

During the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, the Ōban were often composed of members of powerful samurai families assigned to rotational duty protecting the Shogun or Emperor. This service was considered a prestigious honor and a demonstration of loyalty.

The Edo period saw a more formalized structure. The Ōban served within Edo Castle, the Shogun's seat of power. Their duties included guarding the Shogun's person, patrolling the castle grounds, and maintaining order within the castle town. The Ōban consisted of several subunits, each with specific responsibilities and areas of patrol. Appointments to the Ōban were typically reserved for higher-ranking samurai. Serving in the Ōban was a significant step in a samurai's career and a demonstration of their competence and trustworthiness. They were considered elite warriors and held a position of considerable authority within the Tokugawa Shogunate's military and administrative structure. The position involved rigorous training and adherence to strict codes of conduct.