Abstract: The issue of the Japanese era name has been in the spotlight since Emperor Akihito announced his abdication. The announcement of Reiwa Period by Japanese government calmed speculation and ushered in a new era. According to official interpretation, “Reiwa” originated from the Japanese classic Manyoushu, which means “beautiful and harmonious”. However, interpretations and controversies have arisen around its origin and meaning. On the one hand, these comments reflect the changes of Japanese culture and social consciousness. At the same time they trigger people to think about Japans political considerations in choosing Reiwa as the name of the new era, as well as related political thinking and anxiety, and to look back on the impact of the problems left over from the Hirakawa era on the future direction of Japan.

Key words: Japan, new era of Japan, the Reiwa period, political consideration