1. Aim: Describe the Feudal System of Japan

2. The Growth of Japanese Civilization
First historic mention of Japan comes from Chinese writings in 1st Century
Consisted of hundred of clans controlling their own territories
Religion was called Shinto
Means “Way of the gods”
Based on respect for the forces of nature and on the worship of ancestors
400 CE- Yamato clan had established itself as leading clan
Japanese gradually accepted idea of an emperor
Served as a figurehead
Real ruling power reigned behind the throne 2

3. Influences on Japanese Culture
400’s- Japanese began to have more contact with mainland Asia
Came under influence of Chinese ideas & customs
Mid 700’s- Japanese imperial court officially accepted Buddhism in Japan
Some Buddhist rituals become Shinto and some Shinto gods were worshipped in Buddhist temples
Japan Influenced greatly by China
Adopted Chinese system of writing
Painted landscapes in Chinese manner
Modeled government on China’s
: Era in Japanese History called Heian period 3

4. Feudalism Erodes Imperial Authority
11th Century- Power of central government began to slip
Landowners living away from capital set up private armies
Countryside became lawless and dangerous
For safety, farmers & landowners traded parts of their land to strong warlords in exchange for protection
Each lord surrounded himself with loyal warriors
Called Samuri “one who serves”
Lived according to code called Bushido (Way of the Warrior)
1192- Shogun (Supreme General) given power of a military dictator 4