Akechi Clan kamon with text Pin

The Akechi clan (明智) is a branch of the Toki clan, which is descended from the Seiwa Genji, thrived around the later part of the Sengoku period. The clan is known for the Head of clan, Akechi Mitsuhide who trapped Nobunaga at Honnō-ji and forced him to commit suicide. The Akechi then gained power due to the collapse of the Oda clan. Later that same year, Akechi Mitsuhide was slain at the Battle of Yamazaki, twelve days after the Incident at Honnō-ji. The Akechi clan then fell from prominence. This is the kamon (family crest) of the Akechi clan, Japanese bellflower. Below the crest is “Akechi” in kanji.