History of Japan questions?
Could someone give some information on the following topics about the history of Japan. Please just write one or two sentences for each. This is not a homework assignment, it's just for my own research. I need answers ASAP. Note: This not about Modern Japan but more about ancient to early modern Japan.
Achievements
1. City of Kyoto:
2. City of Edo:
3. Writing System:
4. Money Economy:
5. Rise of Merchant Class:
6. Feudal Castles/Castle Towns:
Developments and cultural exchanges
1 .Korea/China influences:
2. Writing system from China:
3. Mongol Invasions:
4. Portuguese traders:
5. Catholic Missionaries:
6. South Asia:
Art and Society
1. Legend of Japan's creation:
2. Bunraku Puppetry:
3. Poetry/Haiku:
4. Epic Poems:
5. Aware:
6. Diaries and Journals:
7. Tale of Genji:
8. Ikebana Flower arranging:
9. Tea Ceremony:
10. Courtiers:
http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1275368425
Achievements:
1. City of Kyoto: Kyoto was the capital of Japan for more than a thousand years (794-1868) and is known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional architecture, and numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites.
2. City of Edo: Edo, now known as Tokyo, was the political and administrative center of Japan from 1603 to 1868 during the Edo period. It was a period of stability and isolation from the outside world.
3. Writing System: Japan adopted a writing system called kanji, which originated from China. It involves the use of symbolic characters to represent words or concepts.
4. Money Economy: During the Edo period, Japan saw the development of a strong domestic economy based on rice production, trade, and a money-based monetary system.
5. Rise of Merchant Class: The rise of the merchant class during the Edo period brought about significant changes in Japan's social structure, as traders began to gain wealth and political influence.
6. Feudal Castles/Castle Towns: Feudal castles and castle towns were prominent features of Japan's feudal era (12th-19th century). Castles were built for defense and became centers of power and culture.
Developments and Cultural Exchanges:
1. Korea/China influences: Throughout history, Japan has had strong cultural and political influences from both Korea and China, particularly in areas such as Buddhism, architecture, and governance.
2. Writing system from China: Japan adopted the Chinese writing system, known as kanji, which became an integral part of the Japanese language and culture.
3. Mongol Invasions: In the 13th century, Japan faced two unsuccessful Mongol invasions. These invasions had a significant impact on Japan's military, culture, and heightened its awareness of foreign threats.
4. Portuguese traders: Portuguese traders arrived in Japan during the 16th century, introducing firearms and European goods, which had a major influence on Japanese society and trade.
5. Catholic Missionaries: In the late 16th century, Catholic missionaries, primarily from Portugal and Spain, arrived in Japan and spread Christianity. However, their influence declined due to political conflicts.
6. South Asia: Japan had cultural exchanges with South Asia, particularly with countries like India, which influenced aspects of Japanese art, religion, and philosophy.
Art and Society:
1. Legend of Japan's creation: The "Kojiki" and "Nihon Shoki" are ancient texts that contain legends and myths about the creation of Japan and its divine origins.
2. Bunraku Puppetry: Bunraku is a traditional form of Japanese puppet theater that originated in the 17th century, combining storytelling, music, and puppet manipulation.
3. Poetry/Haiku: Poetry, particularly haiku, a form of concise and evocative verse, has been a significant art form in Japanese culture for centuries.
4. Epic Poems: Japan has a rich tradition of long narrative poems, particularly "The Tale of the Heike" and "The Tales of Ise," which depict historical events and cultural themes.
5. Aware: Aware is a complex emotion unique to Japanese culture that represents a deep sensitivity and appreciation of beauty tinged with a sense of melancholy.
6. Diaries and Journals: Japanese diaries and journals, such as "The Pillow Book" by Sei Shonagon, provide insights into the daily lives, thoughts, and experiences of people from different historical periods.
7. Tale of Genji: "The Tale of Genji" is a classic work of Japanese literature written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu in the 11th century, depicting the life and relationships of the protagonist Genji, showcasing courtly life and romance.
8. Ikebana Flower arranging: Ikebana is the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, which emphasizes harmony, simplicity, and respect for nature.
9. Tea Ceremony: The Japanese tea ceremony, known as chanoyu, is based on Zen principles, focusing on the preparation and serving of matcha tea with attention to every detail.
10. Courtiers: Courtiers, particularly during the Heian period (794-1185), were influential individuals who served the imperial court and played important roles in shaping Japanese culture, literature, and aesthetics.