Shōhō facts for kids

Shōhō (正保) was a Japanese era name (年号,, nengō,, lit. "year name") that came after the Kan'ei period and before Keian. This special time in Japanese history began in December 1644 and ended in February 1648. During these years, the emperor of Japan was Go-Kōmyō-tennō (後光明天皇).

What Happened During the Shōhō Era?

Nagaoka Castle in Echigo Province, around 1644 (the first year of Shōhō).

• 1644 (Shōhō 1): The Japanese government, known as the shogunate, ordered a very important new map of Japan to be created. This was the third major map they had asked for.

• 18 May 1645 (Shōhō 2): The Shogun, who was the powerful military ruler of Japan, was given a higher official position in the imperial court. This showed how important his role was in the country.

Explore More About This Time

• Edo period

• National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- a look at Japanese history and calendars with pictures
• National Archives of Japan a map of Edo (old Tokyo) from the early Shōhō era (1644 or 1645)