Born to a retainer of the Iyo-Matsuyama domain, he was renowned as a spear master. He accompanied the Shieikan faction to Kyoto in 1863 and served as captain of the Tenth Unit. He fought in the Ikedaya Incident, the Kinmon Incident, and many other battles, feared for his spear technique. He bore a scar on his abdomen from which legends of his toughness grew. After the Battle of Toba-Fushimi in 1868, he also fought at the Battle of Koshu-Katsunuma and the Battle of Utsunomiya Castle. His subsequent fate is disputed; some accounts say he died in 1869 in an incident at Shinobazu Pond involving remnants of the Shogitai, but much remains unclear. Even his exact birth and death years are unconfirmed, making him one of the Shinsengumi's most mysterious figures.

Magnanimous and bighearted with a natural leadership quality. His spear skills were considered the finest in the Shinsengumi, and his imposing build and boldness earned the admiration of his fellow corps members.

As a master spearman he was a key force in the Shinsengumi, remembered as a warrior who lived for Bakumatsu combat. The mystery surrounding his end only adds to his legendary status.