was a after the Taika era and before Shuchō in 686. This period started in February 650 and ended in December 654. The reigning emperor was .
History
In 650 (Taika 6, The daimyo of Nagato Province brought a white pheasant to the court as a gift for the emperor. It was considered to be a good omen, and the emperor caused the nengō to be changed to Hakuchi (meaning "white pheasant").
In Japan, this was the second nengō, which was developed from the Chinese system of eras (nianhao). It became an example of growth in political power.
Timeline
The system of Japanese era names was not the same as Imperial reign dates.
Events of the Hakuchi era
650 (Hakuchi 1): Kōtoku commanded that all prisoners were to be granted liberty throughout the country. 654 (Hakuchi 5, 1st month): A great number of rats moved into Yamato Province; and this was construed as a sign that the capital should be moved. 654 (Hakuchi 5): Kōtoku died at the age of 59 after a reign of 5 years during Taika and 5 years during Hakuchi.
Related pages
Asuka period
References
Other websites
National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- historical overview plus illustrative images from library's collection