Note 15 — Government Edict-board and Regulations at the Ōmon.

It should not be forgotten that no samurai (feudal warrior class) was allowed to enter the brothels wearing his swords. The swords were taken charge of by attendants at the doors before the samurai guest went into the house. Mr. A. B. Mitford says in his “Tales of Old Japan”—“When a Japanese enters a house of ill-fame he is forced to leave his sword and dirk at the door for two reasons—first, to prevent brawling; secondly because it is known that some of the women inside so loathe their existence that they would put an end to it, could they get hold of a weapon.”