Reiwa Era

The Reiwa Era is the current era in Japan, which began on May 1, 2019, following the abdication of Emperor Akihito and the ascension of his son, Emperor Naruhito. The name “Reiwa” is derived from a passage in a 1,300-year-old Japanese poetry anthology, the Manyoshu, and is interpreted to mean “beautiful harmony.” The Reiwa Era signifies a new period in Japanese history characterized by social and cultural change. The choice of the era name reflects hopes for peace, prosperity, and harmony among people. It marks the transition from the previous Heisei Era, which lasted from 1989 to 2019. The Reiwa Era continues to shape Japan’s identity, culture, and values in the contemporary world.