Emperor Kanmu
桓武天皇
The 50th emperor (737–806); moved the capital to Heiankyō (Kyoto); founder of Japan's ancient capital culture
About
Emperor Kanmu (桓武天皇, 737–806) was the fiftieth emperor, famous for moving the imperial capital first to Nagaokakyō and then to Heiankyō (present-day Kyoto) in 794—a decision that set the stage for over a millennium of Kyoto's cultural dominance. His reign was marked by military campaigns against the Emishi people of northeastern Japan, led by generals Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, and administrative reforms strengthening central power.
He is enshrined at Heian Jingu in Kyoto, built in 1895 to mark the 1100th anniversary of the Heiankyō capital establishment. Heian Jingu also co-enshrines Emperor Komei, the last emperor before the Meiji Restoration.
Shrines Dedicated to This Deity
| Shrine | Prefecture | Network Role |
|---|---|---|
| Heian Jingu 平安神宮 | Kyoto |
Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
Who is Emperor Kanmu in Japanese mythology?
Emperor Kanmu (桓武天皇) is The 50th emperor (737–806); moved the capital to Heiankyō (Kyoto); founder of Japan's ancient capital culture. This deity appears in Historical and is enshrined at 1 shrines across Japan.
What shrines are dedicated to Emperor Kanmu?
There are 1 shrines in our database dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, including Heian Jingu.
What myths involve Emperor Kanmu?
Emperor Kanmu appears in myths from Historical. The deity is known as The 50th emperor (737–806); moved the capital to Heiankyō (Kyoto); founder of Japan's ancient capital culture.