The Yorimitsu Shitennō joined Minamoto no Yorimitsu on the expedition to Mount Ōe, disguising themselves as yamabushi to infiltrate Shuten-dōji's fortress. They served the demon king drugged sake from the gods, then drew their swords while he slept.
The Yorimitsu Shitennō were assembled specifically to destroy Shuten-dōji, the demon king of Mount Ōe who had been abducting the women of the capital. Their infiltration and slaying of the oni lord is the central episode of the band's legend.
Minamoto no Yorimitsu led the Yorimitsu Shitennō, his band of four legendary retainers named after the Buddhist guardian deities. Together they formed Japan's most celebrated demon-slaying company.
Four warriors sworn to Minamoto no Yorimitsu formed the Shitennō — named after the Buddhist guardian kings. Together they infiltrated demon strongholds, guarded the capital's gates, and became the most celebrated demon-slaying band in Japanese legend.
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