dōshin

The Tōshin (同心, literally "same mind") were low-ranking officials of the Tokugawa shogunate in Edo period Japan. Serving under various commissioners (Bugyō), the Kyoto Shoshidai, castle wardens, Great Guard Captains, Shoinbangashira, and the Fire and Theft Investigators (Hitsuke Tōzoku Aratame), they were subordinate to Assistant Commissioners (Yoriki) and performed duties such as general administration, patrolling, and security. Their social status was that of foot soldiers (ashigaru), meaning they did not hold full samurai rank (shibun). Additionally, many domains (han) also used the formal title Tōshin for their domainal foot soldier class. Following the Meiji Restoration, they were classed as Sotsuzoku.