Culture

September 10 — Japanese History and Today

September 9, 2026

On September 10, 1315, Hojo Motoaki became the 13th regent of the Kamakura Shogunate, and in 1622, 55 Catholic believers were executed in Nagasaki. These events are significant for understanding Japan’s political and religious history.

1315: Hojo Motoaki Becomes the 13th Regent of the Kamakura Shogunate On September 10, 1315 (the 12th day of the 8th month, Sho-wa 4), Hojo Motoaki succeeded Hojo Hirotoki as the 13th regent (shikken) of the Kamakura Shogunate. The regent was the actual ruler assisting the shogun during Japan’s first military government. The Hojo family's regency established key aspects of the samurai-dominated society. For foreign residents in Japan, knowing the term "shikken" helps in understanding medieval Japanese political structure.

1622: The Great Genna Martyrdom On September 10, 1622 (the 5th day of the 8th month, Genwa 8), 55 Catholics were executed in Nagasaki in an event known as the Great Genna Martyrdom. This was part of the Tokugawa shogunate’s harsh persecution of Christianity. Today, Nagasaki holds many Christian heritage sites, and learning about this history deepens understanding of Japan’s religious background.