Meireki facts for kids

Meireki (明暦) was a special way to name years in Japan. It was like a time period, coming after the Jōō era and before the Manji era. This period started in April 1655 and ended in July 1658. During these years, the emperor of Japan was Go-Sai-tennō (後西院天皇).

Key Events During the Meireki Era

A diplomatic group from Joseon visited Japan in 1655.

The Great Fire of Meireki destroyed Edo in 1657.

The Meireki era saw some important moments in Japanese history. These events helped shape the country during this time.

Diplomacy and Royal Visits

• 1655 (Meireki 1): An ambassador from Joseon, which is now Korea, came to Japan. This was an important diplomatic visit.
• 1655 (Meireki 1): Emperor Go-Mizunoo visited the area where the Shugakuin Palace would later be built. This beautiful palace is near Mount Hiei.

The Great Fire of Meireki

• March 2-3, 1657 (Meireki 3): The city of Edo, which is now Tokyo, was almost completely destroyed by a huge fire. This terrible event is known as the Great Fire of Meireki. It was one of the biggest fires in Japanese history.

Building the Shugakuin Palace

After his visit, Emperor Go-Mizunoo began building the Imperial villa. This included beautiful Japanese gardens at Shugakuin Rikyū. Construction took place between 1656 and 1659.

More About This Time

• Edo period

Images for kids

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  A diplomatic group from Joseon visited Japan in 1655.

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  The Great Fire of Meireki destroyed Edo in 1657.