Heisei Era Commencement Day

On this day, January 8th, 1989, Japan officially entered the Heisei Era, marking a significant transition in the nation’s modern history. Following the passing of Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito) on January 7th, Crown Prince Akihito ascended the throne, and the era name changed from Shōwa to Heisei.

The announcement of the new era name was made by then-Chief Cabinet Secretary Keizō Obuchi, who famously held up a calligraphy panel bearing the characters “平成” (Heisei). Together, the characters 平 (hei, peace) and 成 (sei, achievement) express a hope for peace and harmony both at home and abroad.

The Heisei Era would go on to span three decades, ending when Emperor Akihito abdicated the throne in April 2019. May 1st marked the beginning of the Reiwa era, the current era, under Emperor Naruhito. January 8th is now remembered as Heisei Kaigen no Hi; the day a new era began.