Shitennō (samurai)

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Shitennō (四天王), a Japanese term normally referring to the Buddhist Four Heavenly Kings, is also applied to particularly famous or loyal retainers, in groups of four, to certain of Japan's most famous legendary and historical figures.

The following four are referred to in legend as the Shitennō of Minamoto no Yorimitsu (also known as Raikō) (944-1021):

• Sakata no Kintoki - known as Kaidomaru in his past. Kintoki originated from the House of Suzaku.
• Urabe no Suetake - Originated from the House of Sōryū
• Usui Sadamitsu - only female retainer of Raikō. Originated from the House of Genbu.
• Watanabe no Tsuna - Originated from the House of Byakko.

Minamoto no Yoshitsune (1159-1189) was accompanied by the following four, his so-called Shitennō, who feature in the kabuki play Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura and other works:

• Suruga Jirō
• Kamei Rokurō
• Kataoka Hachirō
• Ise Saburō