Yōrō Code

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The Yōrō Code ( (養老律令, Yōrō-ritsuryō?) was one iteration of several codes or governing rules compiled in early Nara period in Classical Japan.[1] Major work on the Yōrō Code was completed in 718.[2]

The Yōrō Code was a revision or modification of the earlier enacted Taihō Code.[3] The compilation work started under Fujiwara no Fuhito, but the project was stopped abruptly when Fuhito died in 720. The Code was not enacted until 757, when Fujiwara no Nakamaro promulgated it under Empress Koken.

In terms of contents, differences with the Taihō Code were limited. The Code itself, as well as the other ritsuryo codes, is now lost. However, several ulterior documents (such as the Ryo no Gige, a 9th century document explaining enacted laws) remain and allow for its reconstruction.

The Code actually remained in effect until the Meiji restoration in the 19th century, making it a millennium-lasting governing rule.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ Asakawa, Kan'ichi. (1903). The Early Institutional Life of Japan: A Study in the Reform of 645, p. 13.
  2. ^ In the name "Yōrō Code," the noun "Yōrō" refers to the nengō (Japanese era name) after "Reiki" and before "Jinki." In other words, the Yōrō Code was promulgated during Yōrō, which was a time period spanning the years from 717 through 724.
  3. ^ In the name "Taihō Code," "Taihō" refers to the Japanese era name after "Shuchō" and before "Keiun," which was a period spanning the years from 701 through 704.


  • Asakawa, Kan'ichi. (1903). The Early Institutional Life of Japan. Tokyo: Shueisha [repritned by Paragon Book Reprint Corp., New York, 1963].


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