Selections from the Man'yoshu - BONUS
In this special bonus episode, we'll explore the poetic talents of various individuals from the Nara Period, some of whom we know and some who will be new to us today.Check out the supplemental post ...
1 Mars 202112min
Emperor Kammu's Big Moves
Emperor Kammu took the throne as the first sovereign of Japan who descended from Baekje stock. He had big plans for the nation - intensifying the war against the Emishi, building a new capital and, wh...
22 Feb 202122min
Tōhoku Troubles
The reign of Emperor Kōnin was off to a rocky start when his Empress was accused of practicing witchcraft to subvert the state. Prince Yamabe, originally passed over for the office of Tennō because of...
18 Feb 202119min
The Reign of Emperor Kōnin
With Empress Shōtoku gone, the court quickly acted to remove Dōkyō and his cronies from power, then turned their eyes toward the critical issue of succession. Their choice for the next Tennō was the e...
15 Feb 202119min
The Reign of Empress Shōtoku
New reign, new name. Empress Kōken returns to the Chrysanthemum Throne as Empress Shōtoku and sets about removing potential rival claimants and showing favor to Dōkyō, the priest who had healed her ye...
11 Feb 202121min
Fujiwara Troubles
The conflict between Fujiwara Nakamaro and retired Empress Kōken comes to a head as both sides make their opening moves in a dangerous game that resulted in open rebellion. Can Fujiwara Nakamaro find ...
8 Feb 202115min
The Short But Eventful Reign of Emperor Junnin
With his chosen sovereign now placed securely on the throne, Fujiwara Nakamaro probably thought he was about to enjoy the height of his political influence. There was only one problem: the former sove...
4 Feb 202116min
Tachibana Troubles
Dissatisfied with the new status quo, Tachibana Naramaro decides to take matters into his own hands and overthrow his cousin Fujiwara Nakamaro. Will he succeed in this power grab against the increasin...
1 Feb 202127min
