Emperor Nakamikado
A Japanese emperor who presided over a rare era of peace and abdicated to secure a smooth succession for his son.
1702–1737 (age 35)·Emperor of Japan from 1709 to 1735·Birthday: January 14
Biography
Born Yasuhito, the future Emperor Nakamikado ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 1709, during the peaceful Edo period when Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate. His reign, while largely ceremonial in political power, was marked by stability and cultural refinement. He was a patron of classical court traditions and scholarship, overseeing a court that maintained the rituals of imperial life. In a significant move, he abdicated in 1735 in favor of his son, Emperor Sakuramachi, a practice not uncommon for the time but one that ensured a clear line of succession. His posthumous name, Nakamikado, links him forever to the palace of his residence. His life represents the quiet, sustained continuity of the imperial institution during a long stretch of Japanese history defined by shogunal authority.
#1 When Emperor Was Born
The biggest hits of 1702
Emperor's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1702Born
1707Started school
1715Became a teenager
1718Could drive
1720Could vote
1723Turned 21
1732Turned 30
1737Died at 35
Key Achievements
- Became the 114th Emperor of Japan in 1709, succeeding his father, Emperor Higashiyama.
- Presided over a 26-year reign during the peaceful and culturally rich mid-Edo period.
- Abdicated the throne in 1735 to ensure a stable succession for his son, Emperor Sakuramachi.
- His reign saw the continued patronage of classical Japanese court arts and traditions.
Did You Know?
His personal name was Yasuhito.
He was enthroned at the age of seven, following the death of his father.
The era names of his reign were Hōei, Shōtoku, and Kyōhō.
He is buried at the Tsuki no wa no misasagi mausoleum in Kyoto.
“The true path of rule is found in the study of ancient poetry and rites.”
