Kiso Yoshinaka

MedievalGeneralJapan1154 — 1184

Minamoto cousin who took Kyoto, then turned against.

Compare Kiso Yoshinaka with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1154

Died

1184

Country

Japan

Era

Medieval

Occupation

General

Score Overview

Military (10%)45

Political (20%)35

Influence (20%)46

Legacy (20%)37

Leadership (15%)41

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score42.4

Kiso Yoshinaka — Complete Timeline

1183 AD

Capture of KyotoWar◆ Major

Kiso Yoshinaka led his forces into Kyoto, capturing the capital from the Taira clan. He was welcomed by the cloistered Emperor Go-Shirakawa, but his undisciplined troops caused chaos, leading to a breakdown in relations with the court.

CaptureGenpei WarKyoto

Impact: national

Battle of KurikaraWar◆ Major

Yoshinaka defeated a large Taira army at the Battle of Kurikara in the Tonamiyama mountains. Using a clever tactic of stampeding oxen and flanking attacks, he routed the Taira forces, opening the path to Kyoto.

BattleVictoryGenpei War

Impact: regional

1184 AD

Conflict with Minamoto no YoritomoWar◆ Major

Yoshinaka turned against his cousin Minamoto no Yoritomo, leading to open conflict. He was defeated by Yoritomo's forces led by Minamoto no Yoshitsune at the Battle of Awazu, where he was killed in combat.

ConflictDefeatDeath

Impact: nationaltragic