Chōkan facts for kids

Chōkan (長寛) was a special name for a period in Japanese history. These periods are called nengō (年号), which means "year name." The Chōkan era came after the Ōhō era and before the Eiman era. It lasted from March 1163 to June 1165. During this time, two emperors ruled Japan: Emperor Nijō and Emperor Rokujō.

Key Events of the Chōkan Era

Important Happenings in Ancient Japan

• 1163 (Chōkan 1, 1st month): A powerful person named Taira no Shigemori received a higher position in the Japanese court. The court was like the government, and people had different ranks, similar to how people have different jobs and levels of importance today.

• 1163 (Chōkan 2, 2nd month): At two very important temples, Tōdai-ji and Kōfuku-ji, special prayers were held. These prayers were for the Imperial family, asking for their good fortune and success.

• September 14, 1164 (Chōkan 2, 26th day of the 8th month): Former-Emperor Sutoku passed away. He was 46 years old.

Understanding the Chōkan Years

This table helps you see how the Chōkan era matches up with our modern calendar:

Eras Before and After Chōkan

Learn More

• Heian period: Discover more about the long historical period when the Chōkan era took place.

• National Diet Library: You can find more information about the Japanese calendar and its history on the National Diet Library's website here.