Benkei

Woman: "Yes, they say the old Rokkaku lord has returned to reclaim his castle."

Elderly Man: "Like the legendary fight between Benkei and Ushiwaka-maru! This will bring great fame to Otsu."

—Two Otsu residents discussing Benkei's duel with Minamoto, 1582.

Saitō Musashibō Benkei (西塔武蔵坊弁慶, 1155 – 1189), known simply as Benkei (弁慶), was a Japanese sōhei who lived during the 12th century, in the final years of the Heian period.

Biography

Benkei gained fame for his duel at Gojo Bridge against Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a commander of the Minamoto clan. Having lost to him, Benkei went to become Yoshitsune's retainer and served him during the Genpei War. Benkei's duel against Yoshitsune became well known and held in high regard, such that in the 16th century, the people of Otsu considered it legendary.

Appearances

• Assassin's Creed: Shadows (mentioned only)