Heian-period identity proof for nobles and officials
Archaic term for a document or token proving one's identity and status, used by nobles, doctors, and similar figures during the Heian period.
During the Heian period, nobles carried a 名簿 when going out.
Alternate kanji spelling; 符 suggests a tally or token.
The exact derivation is uncertain; the kanji 名簿 literally mean 'name register', reflecting its function as an identity document.