Emperor Murakami

Emperor Murakami (村上天皇 Murakami Tennō) (June 2, 926 – May 25,967) was the 62nd imperial ruler of Japan, according to the traditional order of succession. He ruled from 946 to his death in 967. His given name was Nariakira.

He was a son of Emperor Daigo.

In 944, he was appointed crown prince and ascended the throne two years later.

His maternal uncle Fujiwara no Tadahira remained as the Sessho regent until 949. After the death of Tadahira, there was no regent and although contemporaries praised Murakami as the emperor who governed the state directly, in reality the Fujiwara clan seized power and ruled Japan. The brothers Fujiwara no Sanetomo and Fujiwara no Morosuke became the de facto rulers of Japan.

Emperor Murakami sought to reduce the expenses of government and keep the price of goods down.

He was a central figure in Heian period culture. In 951 he ordered the compilation of Gosen-wakashu. He was also a skilled flute and koto (Japanese harp) player.

The Imperial Palace was destroyed by fire during his reign.