Keiō (慶応, historically 慶應) was a Japanese era name (年号,, nengō,, lit. "year name") after Genji and before Meiji. The period started in April 1865 and ended in September 1868.[1] During this time, the emperors were Kōmei-tennō (孝明天皇)[2] and Meiji-tennō (明治天皇).[3]
3 September 1868 (Keiō 4, 17th day of the 7th month): Edo was renamed "Tokyo", which means "Eastern Capital".[8]
8 October 1868 (Keiō 4, 23rd of the 8th month): Battle of Aizu began.
12 October 1868 (Keiō 4, 27th day of the 8th month): Emperor Meiji's role as monarch was confirmed by ceremonies (sokui).[9]
23 October 1868 (Keiō 4, 8th day of the 9th month): The nengō was formally changed from Keiō to Meiji; and a general amnesty was granted.[10]
In 1868, the emperor moved his Imperial court to Tokyo; and Edo castle became an Imperial palace.[10] In this way, the capital of Japan moved from Kyoto to Tokyo.[11]
Keio University was named after this era.[12] It is the oldest existing institution of higher learning in Japan.[13]
♯The Northern pretenders did not recognize the Genkō era. Gentoku was used in the Northern Court until 1332. ₪The Shōkyō era was recognized only by the Northern pretenders, not by the Southern Court. ‡ Upon reunification of the Northern and Southern Courts in 1392, Genchū was discontinued. Meitoku was used until 1394.