also: ばんどころ
noun
guardhouse; watchhouse
Historical term for a guard post or checkpoint, especially in the Edo period. Not used for modern police boxes.
江戸時代、街道には番所が置かれていた。
In the Edo period, guardhouses were placed along the highways.
旅人は番所で通行手
Travelers had their travel permits checked at the guardhouse.
Compound of 番 (ban, 'watch, guard') and 所 (sho, 'place'). The reading ばんどころ is a rare kun-yomi variant.