He was born as the youngest son at 'Miyoshiya,' a hikitejaya (a guiding teahouse where customers were entertained until they were taken to see the high-ranking courtesan at a courtesan residence) in Shin Yoshiwara (a red light district) of Edo.
江戸新吉原の引手茶屋「見吉屋」の末子として生まれる。