Kyūju facts for kids

Kyūju (pronounced Kyoo-joo) was a special name used for a period of time in Japanese history, like how we have years today. These time periods are called nengō. The Kyūju era came after the Ninpei era and before the Hōgen era. It lasted from October 1151 to April 1154. During this time, two emperors ruled Japan: Emperor Konoe and Emperor Go-Shirakawa.

Important Events During the Kyūju Era

This era saw a few important changes in the Japanese government and imperial family.

Changes in Leadership

• 1154 (Kyūju 1, 8th month): A powerful leader named Fujiwara no Saneyoshi was given an important job. He was named the Grand General of the Left. This was a very high position in the government at that time.

Imperial Succession

• August 22, 1155 (Kyūju 2, 23rd day of the 7th month): Emperor Konoe, who had been ruling for 14 years, sadly passed away.

• August 23, 1155 (Kyūju 2, 24th day of the 7th month): The very next day, Emperor Konoe's younger brother became the new emperor. This process is called succession (or senso). He would later be known as Emperor Go-Shirakawa. His new role was made official with special ceremonies.

Related Pages

• Heian period
• National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- historical overview plus illustrative images from library's collection