The Northern and Southern Courts refer to two rival factions in Japan during the late 14th century, specifically during the Nanboku-chō period. The Northern Court, based in Kyoto, was supported by the Ashikaga shogunate and claimed legitimacy through the imperial line. In contrast, the Southern Court, led by the Yoshino branch of the imperial family, sought to restore the rightful emperor and was based in the southern region of Japan. The conflict between these courts was marked by military struggles and political intrigue, as each sought to assert its authority over the Japanese archipelago. The rivalry continued for several decades, ultimately leading to the Northern Court's dominance, but the Southern Court's legacy influenced later movements for imperial restoration, including the Meiji Restoration in the 19th century.