Why did Japanese rulers send missions to China?
Japanese rulers sent missions to China for several reasons:
1. Tribute to the Chinese Emperor: The Japanese ruling class, particularly the emperors, saw themselves as part of a wider East Asian political order where China held a superior position. By sending missions, they sought to acknowledge the Chinese Emperor as the superior ruler and strengthen the Chinese-Japanese diplomatic relationship.
2. Cultural and Intellectual Exchange: China was considered a center of civilization and learning, and Japanese rulers were eager to acquire knowledge of advanced Chinese technologies, arts, literature, philosophy, and governance. The missions facilitated the transfer of Chinese culture and learning to Japan.
3. Legitimization of Rule: By establishing diplomatic ties with China, Japanese rulers sought to gain legitimacy and prestige in the eyes of their own people and neighboring countries. Having a connection to the illustrious Chinese civilization was perceived as a mark of legitimacy for Japanese rulers.
4. Trade and Economic Benefits: The missions also served as an opportunity to conduct trade with China. Japanese rulers hoped to develop economic ties and gain access to Chinese goods, resources, and markets. The missions helped to establish and maintain a trade network between the two countries.
5. Political and Strategic Considerations: Sending missions to China was a way for Japanese rulers to demonstrate their power and influence to neighboring countries, such as Korea. It served as a political tool to exert soft power and maintain stability and control over Japan's regional relationships.
Overall, the sending of missions to China by Japanese rulers served diplomatic, cultural, economic, political, and strategic purposes, contributing to the development of the Chinese-Japanese relationship and the enrichment of Japanese society.