Culture

October 26 — Historical Events in Japan

October 25, 2026

On October 26, 990, Fujiwara no Teishi became the first lady to be titled Chūgū alongside the Empress, marking a significant change in the imperial court. In 1941, the racehorse St. Lite became the first Japanese Triple Crown winner, a milestone in Japan’s horse racing history.

The 990 Imperial Court Innovation In 990 (Shōryaku 1), Fujiwara no Teishi, consort to Emperor Ichijō, was appointed as Chūgū, a title given when the position of Empress was already occupied—this was the first time the titles of Empress and Chūgū co-existed. Fujiwara no Junshi held the title of Kōgō (Empress), and Teishi as Chūgū, distinguishing ranks within the imperial consorts. This change is significant as it represents a shift in court protocol and the status of imperial women in Japanese history. For foreigners living in Japan, understanding these titles provides deeper insights into the structure and traditions of the imperial family.

1941: Japan’s First Triple Crown Winner In 1941, the horse St. Lite won the Kyoto Agricultural Ministry Prize for Four-Year-Old Horses, becoming Japan’s first Triple Crown winner. Achieving the Triple Crown means winning all three major races within one year, a prestigious honor in the racehorse community. This marked a landmark moment in Japan’s horse racing history, increasing the sport’s popularity nationally. For foreign residents interested in Japanese culture, knowing about St. Lite’s achievement enriches appreciation of Japan’s sporting heritage.