A Japanese firefighter kimono, often referred to as "hikeshi hanten" or "hikeshi juban" , is a traditional garment worn by firefighters in Japan. It is a type of protective clothing designed to shield firefighters from heat and flames during firefighting activities.
"Machibikeshi"
Firefighting by the samurai class prioritized the protection of samurai residences, and it was insufficient for the general townhouses. Therefore, in the third year of the Kyoho era (1718), the 8th shogun, Yoshimune, discussed fire prevention with Ooka Echizen-no-kami Tadatomo, the head of the southern magistrate, and organized a firefighting force composed of townspeople known as "Machibikeshi." Initially, this group was a reorganization of the "Tana-bikeshi", which was made up of the children and servants of townhouse residents. The reorganization focused on individuals skilled in agile activities, particularly those engaged in the roofing trade (tobi-shoku). The expenses were borne by the townspeople, and the members served without compensation.
