noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
imperial lands; lands under the emperor's civilizing influence
Historical term from pre-modern Japan, referring to territories considered to be under the benevolent rule and cultural influence of the emperor. Often contrasted with 化外 (けがい), lands outside imperial influence.
See also: 化外
The people of the imperial lands were said to receive the emperor's blessings.
On this map, the imperial lands and the outer regions are color-coded.