Ancient and Medieval Japan

  • Jan 1, 1185

    Kamakura Period

    Kamakura Period
    The Kamakura period marks the governance by the Kamakura shogunate. It was established in Kamakura by the first shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo and its also known for the emergence of the Samurai, the warrior castle and the establishment of feudalism in Japan. The image is Kumagaya. The beginning of duty, bravery, and loyalty. The practice of zen buddhism, seppuku and the cult of the sword both emerged during this period.
  • Period: Jan 1, 1185 to Jan 1, 1333

    Kamakura Period

    The Kamakura period marks the governance by the Kamakura shogunate. It was established in Kamakura by the first shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo and its also known for the emergence of the Samurai, the warrior castle and the establishment of feudalism in Japan.
  • Jan 1, 1337

    Ashikaga Period

    Ashikaga Period
    Ashikaga period lasted from 1337 to 1573 and it marked the governance of the Muromachi shogunate. It was established by Ashikaga Takauji after the imperial rule was about to close. A new culture was formed which was named after this period and it emerged from the bajufu headquarters in Kyoto to reach all levels of society. The arrival of Shinto and it is the weakest of the shogunates because of the land owned by the establisher.
  • Jan 1, 1467

    Sengoku Period

    Sengoku Period
    Sengoku period, also known as the Warring States Period, was a time of social disruptions, political intrigue, and constant military conflicts that lasted approxiametly till the 15th century to the 17th century. It eventually lead to the union of political power of the Tokugawa shogunate. During this time the trade with China grew which meant the economy was developing and the use of money was spreading. The picture is the Battle of Kawanakajima in 1561. The war was between two Samurais.
  • Edo Period

    Edo Period
    Edo Period, which lasted between 1603 and 1868, was characterized by a major economic growth, strict social order, foreign trade was promoted and popular enjoyment of arts and culture. It was established in Edo by Tokuwaga Ieyasu who was the most powerful man in Japan after Hideyoshi died. Edo 's population grew to more than 1 million which is why Japan was the largest city in the world. The Shoguns introduced a red-sealed patent to certain ships to let them trade abroad. Floating World.
  • Tokugawa Period

    Numerous members of the warrior class, or samurai, took up residence in the capital and other castle towns where many of them became bureaucrats. Peasants, were forbidden to engage in non-agricultural activities so as to ensure a stable source income for those in positions of authority, Another aspect of the Tokugawa concern with political stability was fear of foreigh ideas and military intervention A policy of 'national seclusion' was adopted, prevent Japanese from travelling overseas.
  • Heian Period

    Heian Period
    The Heian Period, which was named after the capital city Heian-kyo or the modern Kyoto, was considred as Japans peak of the imperial court. Heian means peace and tranquility and that was shown in this period. This was also the rise of the military class, Samurais.
  • Asuka Period

    Asuka Period
    The Asuka Period, which was named after the Asuka region about 25km south of the modern city of Nara, was significant due to its social, political and artistic transformation. The religion Buddhism was introduced through the influence of China and a strong economic tie with Korea was formed.