Minamoto no Yorimitsu

Quick Facts: Who was Minamoto no Yorimitsu?

Subject:

Minamoto no Yorimitsu

Known for:

Prominent Heian period samurai and early Minamoto figure known for military prowess.

Born:

948

Died:

1021-08-29

Century / Era:

948s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Minamoto no Yorimitsu (源 頼光; 948 – August 29, 1021), also known as Minamoto no Raikō, was a Japanese samurai of the Heian period, who served the regents of the Fujiwara clan along with his brother Yorinobu, taking the violent measures the Fujiwara were themselves unable to take. He is one of the earliest Minamoto of historical note for his military exploits, and is known for quelling the bandits of Ōeyama. His loyal service earned him the governorships of Izu Province, Kozuke and a number of others in turn, as well as a number of other high government positions. Yorimitsu served as commander of a regiment of the Imperial Guard, and as a secretary in the Ministry of War. When his father Minamoto no Mitsunaka died, he inherited Settsu Province.

Career & Major Achievements

In legend, Yorimitsu is featured as a monster-slaying hero, usually accompanied by his four legendary retainers, known as the Shitennō (The Four Heavenly Kings). They were Watanabe no Tsuna, Sakata no Kintoki, Urabe no Suetake, and Usui Sadamitsu. Yorimitsu is featured in a number of legends and tales, including the legend of Kintarō (Golden Boy a.k.a. Sakata no Kintoki), the legend of Shuten Dōji, and the legend of Tsuchigumo. The tachi (long sword) 'Dōjigiri' owned by Tokyo National Museum and selected as a National Treasure and Tenka-Goken ("Five Swords under Heaven"), and 'Onikirimaru' owned by Tada Shrine, have a legend that Yorimitsu beheaded Shuten Dōji.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Also, three swords of the same name, 'Hizamaru' owned by Daikaku-ji Temple, Hakone Shrine and an individual, have a legend that Yorimitsu beat off Tsuchigumo. The Karatsu Kunchi festival in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, features a large float inspired by the helmet of Minamoto, being partially devoured by the oni Shuten Douji. [1] Source: Mother: Daughter of Minamoto no Suguru Father:Minamoto no Mitsunaka Wife:Daughter of Fujiwara no Motohira 1st son : Minamoto no Yorikuni Wife:Daughter of Taira no Koretaka 2nd son : Minamoto no Yoriie Wife:Daughter of Yoshishige no Tamemasa 3rd son:Minamoto no Yorimoto 4th son: Eiju 5th son:Minamoto no Yoriaki daughter:Fujiwara no Michitsuna's wife Yorimitsu wrote a renga with his wife, which appears in the Kin'yō Wakashū (nos.703-704): tade karu fune no suguru narikeri asa madaki kararo no oto no kikoyuru wa This translates as: a boat harvesting smartweed is passing by I thought I heard someone rowing smartly before dawn Appears in the video game Nioh 2 as a female yokai hunter. She is voiced by Yūko Kaida. Appears as a summonable character in the mobile game in Fate/Grand Order.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 948: Birth of Minamoto no Yorimitsu — Prominent Heian period samurai and early Minamoto figure known for military prowess.
2. 1021 (1021-08-29): Passing & Historical Legacy — Minamoto no Yorimitsu passed away on 1021-08-29, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Notable Quotes by Minamoto no Yorimitsu

“a boat harvesting smartweed is passing by, I thought I heard someone rowing smartly before dawn”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Minamoto no Yorimitsu

True or False: “Minamoto no Yorimitsu was solely known for his role in the courtly poetry circles of the Heian period.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): While he wrote poetry, Yorimitsu is primarily remembered for his significant military exploits and service to the Fujiwara regents.

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• 948 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 948
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Frequently Asked Questions about Minamoto no Yorimitsu