The teenage Yoshimasa became Seii Taishogun six years after the death in 1443 of his older brother, the 7th shogun Ashikaga Yoshikatsu.
During Yoshimasa's reign saw the growth of Higashiyama Culture, famous for Japanese tea ceremony (Sado), Japanese flower arranging (Kado or Ikebana), Noh Japanese drama, and Indian ink painting. Higashiyama culture was greatly influenced by Zen Buddhism and saw the rise of Japanese aesthetics like Wabi-sabi and the harmonization of imperial court (Kuge)) and samurai (Buke) culture.
By 1464, Yoshimasa still had no heir so he adopted his younger brother Ashikaga Yoshimi in order to succeed him. However, in the next year, Yoshimasa was borne a son and a struggle for succession started between the two brothers. By 1467 their conflict expanded into the 11 year Onin War, beginning the Sengoku period of Japanese history that would last over a century. In the middle of hostilities, Yoshimasa retired in 1473, relinquishing the position of Seii Taishogun to his son who became the 9th shogun Ashikaga Yoshihisa.
In 1489, the retired Yoshimasa built Rokuonji Temple (Also known as Kinkakuji Temple and Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, one of the current most famous tourist attractions in the ancient capital.
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Preceded by: Ashikaga Yoshikatsu | Ashikaga shoguns |
Succeeded by: Ashikaga Yoshihisa |