Genmei

Genmei is a Japanese given name and historical epithet that can refer to a specific royal figure as well as to the name’s broader use in Japanese culture. The name is commonly written with the kanji characters 元明, which can be interpreted as “origin” and “bright.” In historical contexts, Genmei is most notably associated with Empress Genmei of Japan.

Empress Genmei (元明天皇) is traditionally counted as the 43rd emperor of Japan. She reigned in the early 8th century, with her rule commonly dated to around 707 to 715. During her reign, the capital was moved to Heijō-kyō (present-day Nara) in 710, an event associated with the consolidation of centralized governance in the early Nara period. Genmei abdicated in 715 in favor of her daughter, who became Empress Genshō. Her reign is also linked with early efforts at codifying state administration and historical chronicles that would shape subsequent national narratives.

In contemporary use, Genmei remains a feminine given name in Japan and may appear in literature, media, and genealogical records. As a posthumous or era-related name, Genmei is typically encountered in historical writing about the early Nara period and imperial succession.

See also Empress Genmei; Heijō-kyō; Genshō. These related topics provide context for the historical significance of the name and its place in Japanese imperial history.