Transcript Early Japan and Feudalism - Saugerties Central Schools

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 between
Japan 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.