was a after a late 7th century interruption in the sequence of nengō after Shuchō and before Keiun. This period started in March 701 and ended in May 704. The reigning emperor was .
History
The system of nengō mirrored the Chinese system of eras (nianhao). The use of nengō marked a new phase in the history of the Imperial court. It became an example of growth in political power.
Taihō was adopted to mark the discovery of gold in Tsushima.
Timeline
The system of Japanese era names was not the same as Imperial reign dates.
Events of the Taihō era
701 (Taihō 1): Plans for mission to the Tang court was approved. 702 (Taihō 2): The or Taihōryō reorganized Japan's government. It completed the Taika Reforms. 701 (Taihō 2): A mission to the Tang court was led by . The diplomats travelled by ship. This was called the "embassy of Taihō" because it was begun during this era.
Related pages
Asuka period
References
Other websites
National Diet Library, "The Japanese Calendar" -- historical overview plus illustrative images from library's collection