Empress Genmei was the 43rd emperor of Japan, reigning from 707 to 715 AD. She was the first woman to hold the title of empress in her own right, following the earlier reign of Empress Suiko. Her reign is noted for the promotion of Buddhism and the establishment of a more centralized government. During her time, Genmei moved the capital from Nara to Nagaoka-kyo, aiming to create a more secure and strategically located center for governance. Her leadership contributed to the cultural and political development of Japan during the early Nara period.