Genkō (era) facts for kids
Genkō was a special name for a period of time in Japanese history, like how we have years today. It was used by the Southern Court in Japan. This period started in August 1331 and ended in January 1334. During this time, there were two emperors claiming to rule Japan: Emperor Kōgon in Kyoto and Emperor Go-Daigo in Yoshino.
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Key Events of the Genkō Era
This era was a very important time in Japan because it saw big changes in how the country was ruled. It was a time of conflict and the end of an old government system.
The Genkō War (1331-1333)
The most important event was the Genkō War. This war lasted for the entire Genkō era. It was a big fight that led to the end of the Kamakura Shogunate. The Kamakura Shogunate was a military government that had ruled Japan for many years.
The Fall of Kamakura (1333)
In 1333, a powerful general named Nitta Yoshisada led an attack on Kamakura, the capital city of the Shogunate. This attack, known as the Siege of Kamakura, ended the Kamakura Shogunate for good. After this, Emperor Go-Daigo tried to bring back direct imperial rule in what is known as the Kemmu Restoration.
The Genko Shakusho
During the Genkō era, an important book was finished. It was called the Genko Shakusho. This book is the oldest surviving detailed account of Buddhism in Japan. It was written by a monk named Kokan Shiren.
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