Eiji (era) facts for kids

The Eiji (pronounced "Ay-jee") era was a special way the Japanese people kept track of time long ago. It was a "year name" or nengō. This period came after the Hōen era and before the Kōji era. The Eiji era lasted for a short time, from July 1141 to April 1142. During these years, two emperors ruled Japan: Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Konoe.

Key Events of the Eiji Era

Emperor Toba Becomes a Monk

• 1141 (Eiji 1, 3rd month): In the first year of the Eiji era, something important happened. The former emperor, Emperor Toba, decided to become a Buddhist monk. He was 27 years old at the time. Even though he became a monk, he still had a lot of influence over the government.

Emperor Sutoku Steps Down

• January 5, 1142 (Eiji 1, 7th day of the 12th month): Later in the same year, Emperor Sutoku decided to give up his role as emperor. This is called abdication. He had been emperor for 18 years.

• After Emperor Sutoku stepped down, his younger brother was chosen to take his place. This process of choosing a new ruler is called senso. Soon after, the new emperor, Emperor Konoe, officially accepted his duties. This was confirmed in special ceremonies.

Time Periods Around Eiji

The Eiji era was a brief but important time in Japanese history. It was part of a longer period known as the Heian period.