Musashibo Benkei(武蔵坊弁慶 1155-1189) popularly called Benkei, was a Japanese warrior monk who lived in the latter years of the Heian period (794-1185). He later came to respect and serve the famous warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune. He is commonly depicted as a man of great strength and loyalty, and a popular subject of Japanese folklore, showcased in many ancient and modern literature and productions.