Kiyomori, Itsukushima, and Fukuhara

Taira no Kiyomori's strategic development of Itsukushima Shrine as both a religious and political hub marked the establishment of a new aristocratic tradition, blending emulation of existing court practices with innovative ritual displays. This 'ritual regime'—comprising signature sites, rites, and texts like the Heike nōkyō (Sūtras Dedicated by the Heike)—positioned Kiyomori as a pivotal figure in shaping the Heike imperial line's cultural legacy. The study reveals how Kiyomori leveraged piety and patronage to consolidate power, drawing parallels with the earlier regent Fujiwara no Michinaga while forging distinct Heike customs.

Blair, H. (2015). Kiyomori, Itsukushima, and Fukuhara. Lovable Losers, 58–77. https://doi.org/10.21313/hawaii/9780824846756.003.0004