Quote Originally Posted by Syl View Post
It seems as the Hattori most people generally hold off on capturing Kyoto early to avoid that instant realm divide, and instead sort of absorb everything around it. That way they can seize it pretty effortlessly when the right (or inevitable) time arrives.
I find that to be the Hattori's biggest advantage, since I'm lukewarm about their battlefield buff and the increased upkeep which comes with it. Having the Ashikaga as a safe little trading pet partner is a nice boost to my economy and, because they're a passive clan, I know my borders with them are safe unless someone else gets them to declare war on me. I ally with them and keep them happy so most times they side with me when push comes to shove. It's most of the bonus from having a vassal without any of the drawbacks. Only once realm divide is triggered by my fame do I march on Kyoto.