Eiso facts for kids

Eiso (永祚) was a special time period in Japan called a Japanese era name (年号,, nengō). Think of it like how we have years, but in old Japan, they also had these special era names. The Eiso era came after an era called Eien and before Shōryaku.

This period lasted from August 988 to November 990. The leader of Japan during this time was Emperor Ichijō (一条天皇). An emperor is like a king or ruler of a country.

What Happened During the Eiso Era?

During the Eiso era, some important events took place in Japan. These events helped shape the history of the country.

Important Visits and Changes in Leadership

• 989 (the first year of Eiso): Emperor Ichijō visited his father, who was the retired Emperor En'yū. Even though his father was no longer the active emperor, he was still a very respected person.

• 989 (the first year of Eiso): A powerful leader named Fujiwara no Kaneie decided to step down from his important role. His son, Fujiwara no Michitaka, then took his place.

• Fujiwara no Michitaka became a regent, also known as a Kampaku. A regent is someone who helps the emperor rule, especially if the emperor is young or needs assistance.

A Leader's Passing

• July 26, 989 (the second year of Eiso): Fujiwara no Kaneie, the powerful leader who had retired earlier, passed away at 62 years old. After his death, his home was changed into a Buddhist temple, a special place for religious practices.

Related pages

• Heian period

External Links

• National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- This link provides a historical overview of the Japanese calendar with pictures from the library's collection.