Yoshiuji ASHIKAGA (the third head of the Ashikaga family), 義弁's grandfather, was appointed as assistant governor of Mikawa Province, which event triggered the family's settlement in the province.
義弁の祖父足利義氏(足利家3代目当主)が三河国守護補任を契機として、同国には足利一門の扶植がはじまった。