troop headquarters; stronghold
Historical military term for the main camp or headquarters of an army, especially during the Sengoku period. Also used figuratively for a central base of operations.
During the Sengoku period, the honjin was where the commander directed operations.
His house is always a hangout for friends, like a headquarters.
daimyo's inn (Edo period)
During the Edo period, an inn officially designated for use by traveling daimyo and high-ranking officials. These were the most prestigious lodgings along major highways.
Post towns along the Tokaido had honjin where daimyo stayed.
Compound of 本 (hon, 'main') and 陣 (jin, 'camp' or 'position'). The term originated in military contexts and was later applied to the highest-ranking inns during the Edo period.