The Chronological Periods of the History of Japan

Japanese history can be categorized into approximately seventeen chronological periods. The earliest of these periods is the Paleolithic Period (ca. 10000 B.C) followed by the Jamon Period (ca. 5th c. B.C.). Continuing in sequential order the periods proceed as follows, Yayoi Period (ca. 3th c. A. D.), Kofun Period (ca. 7th c.), Asuka Period (710), Nara Period (794), Heian Period (1192), Kamakura Period (1333), Nanbokucho Period (1392), Muromachi Period (1573), Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1603), Edo Period (1868), Meiji Period (1912), Taisho Period (1926), Showa Period (1989), and finally the current period the Heisei Period. Artifacts collected by museums such as the Tokyo National Museum help paint a picture of the various cultural epochs of Japan.

For example early earthenware such as bowls and clay figurines from the Jomon Period showcase that the Japanese people at the time were gathering society. In the Yayoi Period the appearance of jars is most likely due to the fact that a more agriculture society was established and storage for foodstuffs was therefore necessary. The Kofun Period is characterized by such objects as hand crafted mirrors and terra-cotta ornaments. These ornate pieces of artwork indicate prosperous times in which artisans could develop their skills. During the Asuka Period technological advancements had reached Japan and metal alloys such as bronze were used to produce statues such as the Bosatsu (Bodhisattava). The Nara Period contains some relics that indicate that some concept of religion had begun to form and ornate objects were now manufactured. An example of this is the finial of a priest's staff or the seated Shaka Nyorai. The development of Japanese culture becomes clearly visible during the Heian Period which can be seen in the hair-line engravings of Zao Gongen and the seated Nyoirinkannon Bosatsu. The Kamakura period showcases the adoption and development of Chinese art into Japanese culture which is seen in the several paintings from this period. The Nanbokucho Period shows the continuous advancement of Japanese artisans as they produced magnificent yet simple pieces depicting subjects such as orchids. As the Muromachi Period approached the military elite held political power in Japan, and had for quite a period of time. The presence of various weapons and armor helps provide a visual into the workings of this era. Some examples of these artifacts are Domaru style armor, the Naginata sword, and the Haramaki style armor. The Azuchi-Momoyama Period contained such items as the Uchigstsna Style Sword Mounting, and Gusoku Style Armor but also bowls. This suggested that conflict was still occurring but artisan's crafts were seen again. The Edo period showed technological development and adoption from foreign countries exemplified by such items as the European Style Helmet. The Meiji Period showcased prosperity and development of artisan skills such as the Footed Bowl with Appliqued Crabs, and the Cloisonne Vase. The Taisho period showed the continuing advancement of Japanese technology as boats, and cannonballs were recovered from this era. The two newest periods, Showa, and Heisei, were not very well represented but can be seen quite easily in present day Japan. The boom in Japan which has placed them at the top of the technological world occurred during these two periods.