Ashikaga Yoshimitsu was a prominent Japanese shogun who ruled during the late 14th century. He was the third shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate and played a crucial role in stabilizing Japan after a period of civil strife known as the Nanboku-chō period. His reign lasted from 1400 to 1425, and he is known for his efforts to promote culture and the arts. Yoshimitsu was also a skilled diplomat, successfully navigating relationships with both the Ming dynasty in China and various Japanese clans. He is credited with establishing the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, a symbol of his patronage of the arts and Zen Buddhism. His leadership left a lasting impact on Japanese history.