1. Sinification of E. Asia Korea, Vietnam, Japan
Himeji Castle, built in 1333

2. China and Korea
Silla Dynasty: Tang armies withdraw, Korea recognizes Tang as emperor
Technically a vassal state, but highly independent
Tribute in gifts/rice exceeded by Chinese gifts and cultural contribution
Chinese influence pervasive!

3. China and Vietnam Vietnamese adaptation to Chinese culture, technology
However, ongoing resentment at political domination
Assert independence when Tang dynasty falls in 10th century

4. China and Nara Japan Chinese armies never invade Japan
Chinese influence undeniable
Imitation of Tang administration and capital (Chang’an)
Establishment of new capital at Nara, hence “Nara Japan” ( CE)
Adoption of Confucian, Buddhist teachings
Yet retention of Shinto religion
Benevolent and malevolent spirits (kami) inhabit all things

5. Heian Japan (794-1185 CE) Period of massive cultural awakening
Japanese emperor moves court to Heian (Kyoto)
Emperor is merely figurehead, real power in hands of Fujiwara clan
Emperor is ceremonial figurehead and link to the divine
Pattern in Japanese history: weak emperor with true power held by others behind the throne
Helps explain longevity of the institution (no Mandate!)

6. Japanese Education Heian Japan Classic curriculum dominated by Chinese
Formal education in Chinese
Court spoke Chinese
Gvt. records in Chinese
Japanese script borrowed heavily from Chinese
Wealthy wrote poetry, literature.
Women did not receive Chinese education
Murasaki Shikibu wrote The Tale of Genji in Japanese
Heian Japan

7. Decline of Heian Nobles led elegant lives at capital
Equal field system fell into disuse
Aristocratic clans gain large landholdings
Civil war between Taira and Minamoto clans in 12th century

8. Institution of the Shogun
Minamoto leader named shogun, CE
Political leader of Japan
Emperor becomes religious figurehead only
Ruled from city of Kamakura; allowed imperial throne to continue in Kyoto

9. Medieval Japan - Structure
Kamakura ( CE) and Muromachi ( CE) periods
Feudalism
Decentralized power in hands of daimyo (warlords)
Military authority in hands of samurai (professional warriors)
Peasants toil in the fields
Merchants lowest class

10. Medieval Japan Samurai supported by agricultural surplus
Bushido – code of conduct