Emperor Junnin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Junnin |
|
|---|---|
| Emperor of Japan | |
| Reign | 758–764 |
| Predecessor | Kōken |
| Successor | Shōtoku |
| Born | 733 |
| Died | 10 November 765 Awaji Island (Hyōgo) |
| Burial | Awaji no misasagi (Hyōgo) |
Emperor Junnin (淳仁天皇, Junnin-tennō, 733–10 November 765) was the 47th emperor of Japan. He ruled from 758 to 764.
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About Emperor Junnin
Before he became emperor, his personal name was Ōi-shinnō. This means Prince Ōi. The name Emperor Junnin was given to him much later by Emperor Meiji.
Junnin was the seventh son of Prince Toneri. Prince Toneri was a son of Emperor Temmu. Junnin's father died when he was only three years old. Because of this, he did not have a high rank or job at the court for a long time.
In older Japanese writings, people sometimes called him the "unthroned emperor." This was because of how his rule ended.
Key Moments in Junnin's Life
His life changed in 757. That year, Empress Kōken chose him to be her heir. This meant he would become the next emperor.
- 7 September 758: Empress Kōken gave up her throne. Her adopted son, Prince Ōi, became the new emperor. This was confirmed in special ceremonies.
- 760: New coins were made and put into use during his rule.
- 764: Emperor Junnin was sent away from the capital. He was exiled to Awaji Island.
- 10 November 765: The former Emperor Junnin died while he was in exile.
Junnin also started a system of grain storage centers. These were called Jōheisō. The government would store rice from good harvests. This stored rice was used to keep prices from getting too high when harvests were not good. These centers were later stopped during the Kamakura period.
After His Rule
The place where Junnin is buried is known. It is a special Shinto shrine called a misasagi on Awaji Island.
The Imperial Household Agency looks after this burial site. It is officially called Awaji no misasagi.
In 1870, Emperor Meiji gave him the official name and title of Emperor Junnin. This is the name he is known by today.
Time Period of Junnin's Reign
The years when Junnin was emperor are known by one special era name:
- Tenpyō-hōji (758-765)
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