The social hierarchy in feudal Japan was structured as a rigid class system known as the "shimo-nihon" or "four divisions" system. At the top were the Emperor and the noble class (including shoguns and daimyo), who held most of the political power and land. Below them were the samurai, the warrior class dedicated to the protection of their lords. The peasants, who worked the land, formed the next tier, while at the bottom were the artisans and merchants. This hierarchy dictated social status, rights, and responsibilities, influencing Japan’s economy and culture for centuries.