Which class in Japanese feudalism consisted of landowners and military men?

The class in Japanese feudalism that included landowners and military men is the samurai. This elite warrior class held significant power and prestige in feudal Japan, serving as the military nobility. The samurai were not only responsible for protecting the land but also had land granted to them by the shogun or higher-ranking feudal lords, known as daimyo. Their role extended beyond mere military functions; they adhered to a strict code of conduct called bushido, which emphasized honor, loyalty, and discipline.

The samurai played a pivotal role in the governance and military structure of feudal Japan. Their position allowed them to own land, which was crucial for maintaining their status and supporting their lifestyle, marked by a unique cultural identity distinct from other classes. This set them apart from merchants, who primarily engaged in trade, and artisans, who were skilled craftsmen but did not hold the same level of military or landowning power. The shogun, while a significant figure in feudal Japan, refers to the military leader rather than a class per se. Therefore, the samurai class is rightly identified as primarily consisting of landowners and military men.