Emperor Heizei
Narihira combined all the qualities most admired in a Heian courtier: he was of high birth (a grandson of the Emperor Heizei), extremely handsome, a gifted poet, and an all-conquering lover. He was probably also an expert horseman, adept in arms, and a competent official. These aspects of his life are not emphasized in "The Tales of Ise", but they distinguish Narihira from other heroes of Heian literature, including Genji.