The Ishimura Clan is one of the most ancient gargoyle clans still in existence as of 1996. For centuries, its members fought alongside Japanese samurai and, before and during the Shogunate, taught both samurai and peasants the ways of bushido. This close relationship with humans likely made the Ishimura Clan one of the earliest to adopt personal names, bestowed during a formal Naming Ceremony.

During Japan’s feudal era, a TimeDancing Brooklyn and Fu-Dog visited the clan, and Katana eventually left Ishimura with them. After peace settled over the islands, the clan remained in Ishimura village, living openly with the human population while being protected from outside discovery. As a result of this long-standing trust, the Ishimura Clan is believed to be larger than most.

The gargoyles reside in an old village temple, perching on its roof by day and facing inward in stone sleep as a sign of trust. They continue to teach bushido to local humans.

In 1996, former pupil Taro, now a wealthy businessman, betrayed the clan. Manipulating the discontented Yama, he abducted the Ishimura gargoyles along with visiting members of the Manhattan Clan, intending to display them in a theme park. Elisa Maza and Constable Hiroshi ultimately rescued them, strengthening the bond between humans and gargoyles even further.

By 2198, Ishimura has become a center of learning, drawing gargoyles and humans alike to study bushido and join the Order of the Guardian. Although the world is aware of the clan by then, Ishimura itself remains largely hidden, possibly making it one of the last clans to be fully revealed. Despite this legacy, the clan’s leader and eggs are kidnapped by the Space-Spawn on March 21st, 2198.