Eikan facts for kids
The Eikan (永観) was a special time period in Japanese history. It was like a way to count years, similar to how we use "AD" or "CE" today. This era came after the Tengen era and before the Kanna era. The Eikan period lasted from April 983 to April 985. During this time, two emperors ruled Japan: Emperor En'yu and Emperor Kazan.
Contents
Key Events of the Eikan Era
Emperor En'yu Steps Down
On October 6, 983, a big change happened. Emperor En'yu, who had been ruling for 15 years, decided to step down from his role. This is called abdication.
Emperor Kazan Takes the Throne
After Emperor En'yu left his position, his nephew became the new emperor. This process is known as succession. Soon after, special ceremonies were held to officially confirm Emperor Kazan as the new ruler of Japan.
A Monk's Journey to China
In 983, during the Eikan era, a Buddhist monk named Chōnen began an important journey. He belonged to a group called the Tendai school of Buddhism. Chōnen traveled all the way to China, taking about five or six of his students with him.
Related Pages
- Heian period
- National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- historical overview plus illustrative images from library's collection
