Ason

Ason(朝臣), or Asomi in earlier form, is a prestigious title of historical Japan, used from the late 7th century till Meiji Restoration. The title was created as a part of eight kabane system, proclaimed in 684, as its second highest rank. As such, asomi was initially given to the highest rank noble clans whose genealogical origins were often claimed back to imperial princes. According to Nihon Shoki, The first creation of ason was in the 11th Month of the 13th year of Temmu Emperor (684), then 52 clans were promoted to asomi rank. During Asuka and Nara periods, new ason were created from court officers who made eminent achievements in their careers.