# Tenmu

> Emperor of Japan

**Wikidata**: [Q335181](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q335181)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emperor_Tenmu)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/tenmu

## Summary
Tenmu was an Emperor of Japan, ruling from 672 to 686. He is notable for his contributions to Buddhist and Shinto religious sites, including the founding of Yakushi-ji Temple and the expansion of Hirose Shrine, as well as the construction of Asuka Kiyomihara Palace. His reign marked a period of cultural and religious development in Japan.

## Biography
- Born: Unknown date and place
- Nationality: Japanese
- Education: Unknown
- Known for: Establishing religious and cultural landmarks during his reign
- Employer(s): None (ruler of Japan)
- Field(s): Political leadership, religious patronage

## Contributions
- **Yakushi-ji Temple**: Founded in 680, a significant Buddhist temple in Nara Prefecture.
- **Hirose Shrine**: Expanded during Tenmu's reign, becoming a key Shinto shrine in Nara Prefecture.
- **Asuka Kiyomihara Palace**: Constructed in 672, a notable historical site in Japan.

## FAQs
- **Who was Tenmu's predecessor?** The source material does not specify.
- **What major events occurred during Tenmu's reign?** The construction of religious and cultural sites, including Yakushi-ji Temple and Asuka Kiyomihara Palace.
- **Where is Tenmu buried?** The source material does not provide this information.
- **What was Tenmu's relationship with Hieda no Are?** Hieda no Are compiled the *Kojiki* in 712, which was during Tenmu's reign, suggesting a connection.

## Why They Matter
Tenmu's reign was pivotal for the development of religious and cultural infrastructure in Japan. The establishment of Yakushi-ji Temple and the expansion of Hirose Shrine enhanced the country's Buddhist and Shinto traditions. Asuka Kiyomihara Palace also contributed to Japan's historical legacy. His contributions laid the groundwork for future religious and cultural developments in Japan.

## Notable For
- Founded Yakushi-ji Temple in 680, a major Buddhist site.
- Expanded Hirose Shrine during his reign.
- Constructed Asuka Kiyomihara Palace in 672, a significant historical landmark.

## Body
### Early Life and Reign
Tenmu ascended to the throne in 672, marking the beginning of his reign. His early years were focused on establishing and expanding religious and cultural sites, including the construction of Asuka Kiyomihara Palace.

### Religious and Cultural Contributions
During Tenmu's reign, several key religious and cultural landmarks were established:
- **Yakushi-ji Temple**: Founded in 680, this temple became a significant Buddhist site in Nara Prefecture.
- **Hirose Shrine**: Expanded during Tenmu's reign, this shrine became a key Shinto site in Nara Prefecture.
- **Asuka Kiyomihara Palace**: Constructed in 672, this palace was a notable historical site in Japan.

### Legacy
Tenmu's contributions to Japan's religious and cultural landscape were substantial. The establishment of Yakushi-ji Temple and the expansion of Hirose Shrine enhanced the country's Buddhist and Shinto traditions. Asuka Kiyomihara Palace also contributed to Japan's historical legacy. His reign laid the groundwork for future religious and cultural developments in Japan.

## References

1. Japan Search
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013