The Edo bakufu (Japanese feudal government headed by a shogun) employed the ashigaru under its direct control in administrative and policing roles as kachi (foot guards) and doshin (police constables).
江戸幕府は、直属の足軽を幕府の末端行政・警備警察要員等として「徒士（かち）」や「同心」に採用した。