This concerns the feudal powers in Japan:

Ok, so in many ways the relation between China and Japan reflect what we've already seen between Russia and Byzantium. What were the most important things that Japan borrowed from China? Chinese influence in Japan reached its height during the time of Prince Shotoku. What did he do to make Japan like China? Were his efforts successful? What happened in the late 800s that changed this situation? What was the complicated power structure in Japan after the time of Prince Shotoku until c. 1300? Why is this called a feudal system? - Any help with any of these questions would be greatly appreciated :)

how did geography help shape Japanese civilization?

To answer your questions about the feudal powers in Japan and their relation to China, we need to examine the historical context. Here is a breakdown of each question:

1. What were the most important things that Japan borrowed from China?
Japan borrowed several elements from China, including:

a. Writing system: Japan adopted Chinese characters (kanji) and incorporated them into their own writing system.

b. Buddhism: Japan embraced Buddhism, which originated in India but was introduced to Japan via China.

c. Confucianism: Japanese thinkers were influenced by Confucian philosophy, which emphasizes social order, respect for authority, and ethical principles.

d. Legal and administrative systems: Japan adopted various aspects of China's legal and administrative systems.

2. What did Prince Shotoku do to make Japan like China? Were his efforts successful?
Prince Shotoku, a regent during the Asuka period (592-710), made significant efforts to emulate China. He established a centralized government, created a constitution known as the Seventeen Article Constitution, adopted Confucian principles, and promoted Buddhism. His goal was to strengthen the Japanese state and society. While his efforts brought about positive changes, it's important to note that Japan maintained its distinct cultural identity.

3. What happened in the late 800s that changed this situation?
In the late 800s, Japan experienced a period known as the Heian period (794-1185). During this time, the imperial court gradually lost control over regional aristocratic families, leading to the rise of provincial military governors known as samurai. The increasing power of regional clans signaled a shift from a centralized government to a decentralized feudal system.

4. What was the complicated power structure in Japan after the time of Prince Shotoku until c. 1300?
After Prince Shotoku, Japan's power structure became decentralized, with power resting in the hands of regional military leaders, powerful aristocratic families, and local landowners. Each held their own territories and maintained their private armies of samurai warriors.

5. Why is this called a feudal system?
This system is referred to as a feudal system because it shares some similarities with the European feudalism of the Middle Ages. It is characterized by a hierarchy of land ownership and obligations. The emperor granted land and titles to regional lords (daimyo) who, in turn, provided military service and loyalty. Samurai warriors served the daimyo, and the rest of society, including farmers and artisans, worked the land and paid taxes in exchange for protection.

It's important to note that while there are similarities, the Japanese feudal system had unique characteristics and cultural influences specific to Japan.

By understanding these historical aspects and influences from China, we can better comprehend the feudal powers in Japan and their development over time.