Japanese era name; imperial era name
Refers to the named Japanese imperial era used in dates, such as 明治, 昭和, 平成, or 令和. 元号 is a very close synonym and is often preferred in official contexts.
See also: 元号
年号が平成から令和に変わった。
The era name changed from Heisei to Reiwa.
この書類には西暦ではなく年号で日付を書いてください。
Please write the date on this form using the Japanese era name rather than the Western calendar year.
This school was founded in the 5th year of Reiwa.
The era name changes when a new emperor ascends the throne.
Please write the date on this document using the era name.