Enkyo facts for kids

"Enkyō" is a Japanese word that can refer to two different periods in Japanese history, known as "era names" or "nengō." These era names are like special names given to specific time periods, often linked to the reign of an emperor or important events.

What are Japanese Era Names?

In Japan, a Japanese era name (called nengō) is a special way to count years. Instead of just using a number like "2024," they also use a unique name for a period of time. For example, if an emperor starts their rule, a new era name might begin. This system has been used for a very long time in Japan. Each era name lasts for a certain number of years, and then a new one begins. It's a bit like how we might talk about the "Victorian era" or the "Roaring Twenties," but it's an official way to mark years in Japan.

Enkyō in the Kamakura Period

One meaning of Enkyō refers to a specific era during Japan's Kamakura period. This period lasted from 1185 to 1333. It was a time when military leaders, called shoguns, had a lot of power in Japan, even more than the emperor. The Kamakura period is famous for its samurai warriors and the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate, which was a military government.

The First Enkyō Era (1308-1311)

The first Enkyō era happened from 1308 to 1311. This was during the later part of the Kamakura period. During this time, Japan was governed by the Hōjō clan, who were regents (people who ruled for the shogun) of the Kamakura Shogunate. The emperor at the time was Emperor Hanazono. This era was relatively short, lasting only three years, before a new era name, Ōchō, began.

Enkyō in the Edo Period

The second meaning of Enkyō refers to an era during the Edo period. The Edo period was a long time of peace and stability in Japan, lasting from 1603 to 1868. During this period, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa Shogunate, and the capital city was Edo (which is now Tokyo). This era is known for its unique culture, the rise of cities, and a time when Japan was mostly closed off from the rest of the world.

The Second Enkyō Era (1744-1748)

The second Enkyō era took place much later, from 1744 to 1748. This was during the middle of the Edo period. The shogun ruling Japan at this time was Tokugawa Ieshige, the ninth Tokugawa shogun. The emperor was Emperor Momozono. This era was also quite short, lasting four years, and was followed by the Kan'en era. During this time, Japan continued its policy of isolation, focusing on its own internal development and culture.