Early Japan and Feudalism

Mrs. Hart and Mrs. Bernier

Geography of Japan

Japan is an archipelago. There are four main islands and more than 3000 smaller islands. These islands are part of the Ring of Fire.

Effects of Geography

Because the islands are mountainous, most of the population has always lived in narrow valleys or along the coast. The sea was a source of food as well as transportation, but also isolated Japan from other cultures. Because the natural environment was very unsettled in this region, people developed a deep respect for the forces of nature.

Japanese Religion: Shintoism The Japanese traditional

religion is Shintoism. It’s characterized by the worship of the kami, or spirits found in all living things. Shinto shrines

can be found in places of unusual natural beauty.

Cultural Diffusion form Korea and China

Japanese culture is a blend of its own traditions and ideas from nearby China and Korea. These ideas included: Chinese writing, Buddhism, Confucianism, and and influences on customs and art.

Imperial Tradition

Japanese society was organized into clans with

separate rulers and religious customs. The first royal family of Japan was the Yamato

clan.

Heian Period The Heian period was a

time period in Japan which lasted from the

700s-1100s. The Japanese court was sophisticated, and the

emperor was seen as a god. Elaborated rules

of etiquette governed court ceremonies.

Feudalism in Japan

Feudalism developed in China after central authority in Japan declined. Local lords fought one another, and a feudal system developed. As in Europe, a distinct social hierarchy developed.

Emperor

Shogun

Daimyo

Samurai

Peasants and Artisans

Merchants

Tokugawa Shogunate

The Tokugawa Shogunate came into power in 1603 and brought peace and stability to Japan. They ruled for almost 300 years. During this time, Japan prospered economically, with trade prospering in the cities. In 1638, the shoguns adopted a period of strict isolation, and Japanese were prohibited from traveling outside the country.

Cultural Advances of the Tokugawa Shogunate

Under the Tokugawa, Japanese culture advanced as well. Achievements included kabuki theater, the development of the haiku, and influences of Zen Buddhism.

Feudalism Compared betweenJapan and Europe

• Emperors and kings had no real power. • Distinct social classes developed. • Power and wealth were concentrated in the hands of an elite land-holding class. • Knights and samurai warriors defended the land. Code of chivalry was similar to bushido.