Culture

September 13 — Japan in History and Today

September 12, 2026

On September 13, significant events in Japanese history include a conflict between Buddhist monks during Emperor Nijō’s funeral in 1165 and the signing of the Japan-Qing Treaty of Amity in 1871. These events had lasting impacts on religious relations and early modern diplomacy in Japan.

1165 — Conflict at Emperor Nijō’s Funeral On September 13, 1165 (the 7th day of the 8th month in the Eiman era), a violent dispute broke out between monks of Enryaku-ji temple on Mount Hiei and Kōfuku-ji temple in Nara during the funeral of Emperor Nijō. This clash marked intense rivalry among religious institutions and led to prolonged conflicts. It remains an important event to understand the historical interplay of religion and politics in Japan. For foreign residents, it highlights how religious communities have long coexisted and competed in Japanese society.

1871 — Signing of the Japan-Qing Treaty of Amity On September 13, 1871 (July 29, Meiji 4), Japan and the Qing Dynasty signed the Treaty of Amity in Tianjin, establishing their first formal diplomatic relations. This treaty symbolizes Japan’s proactive engagement with neighboring powers during its modernization after the Meiji Restoration. For foreign residents, recognizing this event helps understand how Japan entered the international community and developed modern foreign policy in the 19th century.