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 :)

Certainly! Let's break down each of your questions one by one:

1. What were the most important things that Japan borrowed from China?
During the time of Prince Shotoku, Japan borrowed several cultural, political, and philosophical elements from China. The key areas of influence were in Buddhism, Confucianism, writing systems (such as kanji), architecture, art, and government administration. The Chinese influence played a crucial role in shaping Japan's cultural development.

2. What did Prince Shotoku do to make Japan like China?
Prince Shotoku played a vital role in promoting Chinese influences in Japan. He actively dispatched diplomatic missions to China, facilitated the adoption of Chinese political systems, advocated for the study of Chinese literature and philosophy, and encouraged the adoption of Buddhism and Confucian principles. He aimed to centralize political power and create a more unified and organized state similar to China.

3. Were his efforts successful?
Yes, Prince Shotoku's efforts were largely successful in promoting Chinese-style governance and influencing the Japanese society. His efforts laid the foundation for the harmonization of Chinese and Japanese cultures, leading to a golden age of cultural exchange and development in Japan.

4. What happened in the late 800s that changed this situation?
In the late 800s, Japan experienced a shift in political power, often referred to as the "Fujiwara clan dominance." The Fujiwara clan, who held considerable influence at the imperial court, pursued a policy of decentralization. The focus shifted from emulating Chinese systems to developing a unique Japanese identity and local governance. This change marked a departure from the strong Chinese influence that had characterized Japan until then.

5. What was the complicated power structure in Japan after the time of Prince Shotoku until c. 1300?
After Prince Shotoku's time, Japan experienced a feudal system known as the "feudal age" or "shogunate system." Power became decentralized, and regional military leaders known as daimyos emerged. The emperor's authority diminished, and these daimyos gained significant control over their respective territories. The most powerful daimyo eventually emerged as the shogun, who held the highest military authority in the land.

6. Why is this called a feudal system?
The Japanese feudal system is called so because it shared similarities with feudal systems found in medieval Europe. Just like in Europe, power was divided among local lords (daimyos) who ruled over their territories and controlled their own armies. The loyalty and obligation between lords and their vassals formed the basis of the system, with a hierarchical social structure and a focus on land ownership and military service.

I hope this helps clarify the historical context and answers your questions! If you have any follow-up questions, feel free to ask.