August 14th — Japan's History and Today

686 - Start of the Shuchō Era

In 686, Japan reinstated the use of era names, marking a significant cultural event with the declaration of the new era name, Shuchō. After a 32-year hiatus since the Hakuchi era, the reintroduction of this system remains a cultural cornerstone in modern Japan. For expats interested in history and culture, understanding era names helps in appreciating Japan's unique sense of time.

1204 - The Tragic End of Minamoto no Yoriie

In 1204, Minamoto no Yoriie, the second shogun of the Kamakura shogunate, was assassinated while in captivity at Izu Shuzenji. This event highlights the instability and intense power struggles of Japan's warrior class politics. Knowing this background can enrich the experience of visiting Izu for foreign tourists.

1885 - Japan's First Patent

In 1885, Japan issued its first ever patent, marking the beginning of the country's modern intellectual property management. Understanding this patent system, which began in this era, is crucial for expatriates involved in business or technology sectors in Japan.