Fujiwara no Kaneie (藤原 兼家) was a Japanese statesman, courtier and politician during the Heian period. He also was known as Hōkō-in Daijin and Higashi-sanjō-dono.

Career

Kaneie served as a minister during the reigns of Emperor En'yū, Emperor Kazan and Emperor Ichijō. After his rival brother Kanemichi's death in 977 he was appointed to Udaijin by his cousin Yoritada who became Kampaku after Kanemichi's death. He and his son Michikane encouraged Emperor Kazan to abdicate to accelerate Kaneie's accession to regent. Kaneie told Kazan that the Imperial Regalia was already held by Ichijo, and hence Kazan should not continue as ruler. Kazan acquiesced to Kaneie's demands, under some pressure, and went to the Gangyō-ji monastery. Kaneie's second son, Michikane, went with Kazan; he intended to also take the tonsure. When they arrived at the monastery, Michikane claimed that he would like to see his parents as a layman for the last time - he did not return. When Emperor Ichijo succeeded, Kaneie became Sesshō of Emperor Ichijō.

Family

Kaneie had four brothers: Kanemichi, Kinsue, Koretada, and Tamemitsu.