Noble Houses (SCB)

Note: This article is based off the main canonical article of the same name, which can be found .

The Noble Houses have an important role in the culture and government of the. The Four (main) Noble Families carry the most importance and hold some influence over and the  (including their affiliations, such as the, , and .) The Gotei 13 and any millitary institution associated with it has no authority to act against a noble family without evidence that their actions are treasonous to Soul Society. Each of the Four Noble Families have various subservient Lower Noble Families (or Lesser Clans) that have pledged loyalty to them. Noble Families are allowed to practice, , and other martial skills normally reserved for in the Gotei 13.

According to tradition, the head of the Shihōin family leads the Onmitsukidō. Also known as the Tenshiheisōban (天賜兵装番, "House of Godly Gears"). Their prescribed role is as the Caretakers of the Hōgu (宝具, lit. "Treasure Tool") and Bugu (武具, lit. "War Tool") said to have been bestowed on them by the gods.

The Kuchiki Family is known for their honor and tradition, and is often referred to as the "exemplary clan." Members of the family have been known to wear Kenseikan (牽星箝|lit. "Star-Pulling Insert") in their hair, which symbolizes their nobility. They also have a masterfully woven windflower light silk scarf that is handed down as an heirloom to the head of each generation. By tradition, the family has been charged with compiling and protecting the history of Soul Society. Members resides in the.

Third Great Noble House
No information about this house is currently available.

Fourth Great Noble House
No information about this house is currently available.

Fēng Family
Traditionally serves the Shihōin family by joining the Onmitsukidō. The family makes its living as assassins and executioners. Any member who doesn't pass the test to get into the Onmitsukidō's Executive Militia is exiled.
 * Notable Members:

Kira Family
A lesser noble family.
 * Notable Members:

Kyōraku Family
An old, prestigious and high-ranking noble family.
 * Notable Members:

Miura Family
A lesser noble family.

Ōmaeda Family
An aristocratic, rich family. The family has a history of service in the Onmitsukidō.
 * Notable Members:, Mareyo Ōmaeda

Sakuma Family
A lesser noble family.
 * Notable Members: Takashi Sakuma

Ukitake Family
A low-class aristocratic family.
 * Notable Members:

The family was once the fifth great noble family, having prestige along the lines of the Kuchiki and Shihōin families. For an unknown reason, the Shiba family fell from their high status position after the death of Lieutenant. The family specializes in fireworks.