Emperor Kimmei facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kimmei |
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|---|---|
| Emperor of Japan | |
| Reign | 540–571 |
| Predecessor | Senka |
| Successor | Bidatsu |
| Born | 509 |
| Died | 571 (aged 61–62) |
| Burial | Hinokuma no saki Ai no misasagi (Nara) |
Emperor Kimmei (欽明天皇, 509-571), also known as Kinmei, was the 29th emperor of Japan. He ruled from 540 to 571. Historians believe many details about his life are likely true, even if some parts seem like legends. The name Kimmei-tennō was given to him after his death by people who lived much later.
The names and order of Japan's early emperors became "traditional" much later. This was confirmed during the time of Emperor Kammu, who was the 50th ruler of the Yamato dynasty.
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Family and Early Life
Emperor Kimmei's father was Emperor Keitai. His mother was Princess Tashiraka (手白香皇女), who was the daughter of Emperor Ninken. Kimmei was the third son in his family. His older brother was Emperor Senka.
Kimmei had six wives during his life. He also had 25 children, including 16 sons and 9 daughters.
Key Events of Kimmei's Reign
Emperor Kimmei's time as ruler saw some important changes in Japan.
Becoming Emperor
- 539: Emperor Senka, Kimmei's older brother, passed away from old age.
- 540: Kimmei then took on the role of emperor. This was made official with special ceremonies.
Court and Capital
Emperor Kimmei set up his main court in a place called Shikishima no Kanazashi in Yamato Province. This was the center of his government.
Buddhism Arrives in Japan
A very important event during Kimmei's reign was the arrival of Buddhism in Japan. The King of Kudara, a kingdom in Korea, sent gifts to the emperor. These gifts included Buddhist holy writings and a statue of the Buddha. This marked the beginning of Buddhism in Japan.
Important Ministers
During Kimmei's rule, he had several chief ministers who helped him govern. These powerful leaders included:
- Soga no Iname: He was also known as Soga no Iname no Sukune. His family, the Soga clan, supported the new religion of Buddhism.
- Mononobe no Okoshi: He was also known as Monotobe Okoshi no Muraji. His family, the Mononobe clan, did not want Buddhism to come to Japan.
- Nakatomi no Kanamura: He was also known as Ōtomo Kanamura Maro. His family, the Nakatomi clan, also opposed the introduction of Buddhism.
Kimmei's Death
- 571: In the 32nd year of his reign, Emperor Kimmei passed away.
- 572: His second son became the next emperor. He would be known as Emperor Bidatsu.
After Kimmei's Death
The official name given to Emperor Kimmei after his death was decided many centuries later.
Today, the Imperial Household Agency says that Emperor Kimmei's final resting place is in an earthen burial mound, called a kofun. People honor Kimmei at a special Shinto shrine (misasagi) that is connected to his burial mound.
Related Pages
See also
In Spanish: Kinmei Tennō para niños
