Emperor Konoe

Quick Facts: Who was Emperor Konoe?

Subject:

Emperor Konoe

Known for:

The 76th Emperor of Japan, reigning from 1142 to 1155.

Born:

1139-06-16

Died:

1155-08-22

Century / Era:

1139s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Emperor Konoe (近衛天皇, Konoe-tennō; June 16, 1139 – August 22, 1155) was the 76th emperor of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. Konoe's reign spanned the years from 1142 through 1155. Before his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne, his personal name (his imina) was Narihito-shinnō (体仁親王). He was also known as Tosihito-shinnō. Emperor Konoe was the eighth son of Emperor Toba.

Career & Major Achievements

His mother was Fujiwara no Nariko (1117–1160), the wife of Emperor Toba. Kōgō: Fujiwara no Tashi (藤原多子), Tokudaiji Kin'yoshi‘s daughter and Fujiwara no Yorinaga’s adopted daughter. Later married Emperor Nijo and become Emperor Rokujo’s foster mother. Chūgū: Fujiwara no Shimeko (藤原呈子) later Kujō-in (九条院), Fujiwara no Koremichi’s daughter and Fujiwara no Tadamichi’s adopted daughter. Konoe was named heir shortly after he was born in 1139; and he was proclaimed emperor at the age of 3.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Eiji 1, in the 3rd month (1141): The former emperor Toba accepted the tonsure and became a Buddhist monk at the age of 39 years. Eiji 1, on the 7th day of the 12th month (永治元年; 1141): In the 18th year of Sutoku-tennō's reign (崇徳天皇十八年), the emperor abdicated; and the succession (senso) was received by a younger brother, the 8th son of former Emperor Toba. Shortly thereafter, Emperor Konoe is said to have acceded to the throne (sokui). At that time, the Kampaku Fujiwara-no Tadamichi became Sesshō or regent. The Cloistered Emperor Toba continued to direct all the affairs of government, while the retired Emperor Sutoku had no powers.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1117: 1117 Milestone — His mother was Fujiwara no Nariko (1117–1160), the wife of Emperor Toba.
2. 1139 (1139-06-16): Birth of Emperor Konoe — The 76th Emperor of Japan, reigning from 1142 to 1155.
3. 1141: 1141 Milestone — Eiji 1, in the 3rd month (1141): The former emperor Toba accepted the tonsure and became a Buddhist monk at the age of 39 years.
4. 1142: 1142 Milestone — Konoe's reign spanned the years from 1142 through 1155.
5. 1155 (1155-08-22): Passing & Historical Legacy — Emperor Konoe passed away on 1155-08-22, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Emperor Konoe

True or False: “Emperor Konoe reigned for exactly 30 years, spanning multiple major political shifts in the Heian period.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): His reign lasted for a total of 13 years, covering the eras Kōji through Kyūju.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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• 1139 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1139
• June 16 (06-16) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on June 16
• 1155 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1155
• August 22 (08-22) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on August 22

Frequently Asked Questions about Emperor Konoe