Shōwa (Kamakura period) facts for kids

The Shōwa (正和) period was a special way of counting years in Japan. It was a Japanese era name (年号,, nengō,, meaning "year name"). This era came after the Ōchō period and before the Bunpō period.

The Shōwa era lasted from March 1312 to February 1317. During this time, the emperor of Japan was Hanazono-tennō (花園天皇).

Important Events of the Shōwa Era

This period saw some interesting changes and events in Japan.

1313: A Former Emperor Becomes a Monk

• In 1313 (which was the 2nd year of Shōwa), something important happened. The former emperor, Fushimi, decided to become a Buddhist monk. This meant he shaved his head and dedicated his life to religious practices.

1314: Hōjō Sadaaki Returns

• In 1314 (the 3rd year of Shōwa), a powerful leader named Hōjō Sadaaki traveled from Kyoto back to Kamakura. Kamakura was a very important city at that time, as it was the center of the military government.

1315: Changes in Power

• The year 1315 (the 4th year of Shōwa) brought more changes. Hōjō Hirotoki passed away in Kamakura. After his death, Hōjō Sadaaki and Hōjō Mototoki began to share power. This meant they worked together to lead the government.
• Also in 1315, another important person, Hōjō Tokiatsu, took on a big role. He became the Rokuhara Tandai in Kyoto. This was a position of great authority, overseeing the emperor's court and keeping order in the capital city.

1316: A New Leader for the Shogunate

• In 1316 (the 5th year of Shōwa), Hōjō Tokiatsu, who was the son of Hōjō Sadaaki, became the Shikken. The Shikken was like the chief minister or regent for the shogun. This person held a lot of real power in the Kamakura shogunate, which was Japan's military government.

Learn More

• Kamakura period: This was the larger historical period that the Shōwa era was a part of.
• You can also learn more about the Japanese calendar and its history by visiting the National Diet Library's website: "The Japanese Calendar".