Emperor Kōtoku

Emperor Kōtoku (596–654), personal name Karu, was Japan's 36th sovereign (r. 645–654) and Empress Kōgyoku's younger brother. Enthroned after the Isshi incident broke Soga power, he let his nephew Crown Prince Naka no Ōe direct policy. He proclaimed Taika, Japan's first era name, and the 646 Reform Edict launched the Taika reforms of centralised administration.

The court moved to Naniwa palace, where a white pheasant tribute in 650 brought the Hakuchi era. In 653 the crown prince led the court back to Asuka; Kōtoku stayed behind and died at Naniwa in 654.