Heian period
Japan, 794 CE–1185.
The court moved to Heian-kyo (Kyoto). Real power passed from emperors to the Fujiwara regents, and a refined court culture produced some of the world's first great novels.
Seat of power: Heian-kyo (Kyoto)
Rulers
Fujiwara no Michinaga
Regent, 995 CE–1028
Never became emperor, but married four daughters to emperors and became grandfather of three. Through these marriages and the office of regent, he controlled appointments and ran the court.
Portrait of Fujiwara no Michinaga: Unknown authorUnknown author, Public domain, file
Culture
- Murasaki Shikibu writes The Tale of Genji around 1008.
- The kana syllabaries let writers record Japanese as it was spoken.
- The Phoenix Hall of Byodo-in is built in 1053.
Picture
A scene from the Tale of Genji handscroll, painted in the 12th century.
Image: Imperial court in Kyoto, Public domain, file
