the four major historical clans: Minamoto, Taira, Fujiwara, and Tachibana
Refers collectively to the four most prominent noble clans of ancient Japan: 源 (Minamoto/Genji), 平 (Taira/Heike), 藤 (Fujiwara), and 橘 (Tachibana). Used in historical or literary contexts.
The Genji, Heike, Fujiwara, and Tachibana are known as the four great clans of ancient Japan.
Compound of the first kanji of each clan name: 源 (Minamoto), 平 (Taira), 藤 (Fujiwara), and 橘 (Tachibana).