Imapct of History on Japanese Culture

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Introduction

Japanese culture is very unique. It is a culture that has stirred many outsiders curiosity throughout history because of a level of mystery that surrounds it. It is a culture that many admire. The reasons behind the mystery and uniqueness of Japanese culture to outsiders is due in part to the unique history that have made it what it is today.

Because Japan is a chain of islands its culture has developed in an atmosphere of isolation and control to a certain extent. Over the history of Japan, layers of cultural development can be seen where outside influences were either adapted or shielded from the culture. There are three very influential layers created by the Age of Reform (AD 552-710), the Meiji Period (1868-1912), and the decade following World War II. The layers of culture have resulted in the Japan of today, a delicately balanced technologically modern and developed country with strong connections to a rich cultural heritage.

The early ancestry of the Japanese people is not fully known, only that it was varied, possibly including people from China, Korea, Siberia, and Polynesia. Civilization on the islands of Japan can be traced back to as early as 300 BC. At that time metal technology, rice agriculture, and livestock including horses were already present.

Age of Reform

The development of culture can be seen in each era of Japanese history, beginning with the influence of the Age of Reform (AD 552-710). During this period influences came from China and the Silk Road trade route. Prince Shotoku sent groups of people including representatives, monks, and students to China to learn and bring back knowledge and skills gained from Chinese culture. The groups brought back significant contributions to literac...

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...ese include an excellent work ethic, attention to detail and aesthetics, balance between past and future, and a focus on both doing and being. The unique culture of Japan influenced and developed through a rich history will be an asset as Japanese people move into the future.

References

Bix, H. (2009). Hirohito and the making of modern Japan. New York: HarperCollins.

Hearn, L. (2012). Glimpses of an unfamiliar Japan. London, England: Duke Classics.

Martin, J. and Nakayama, T. (2010) Intercultural communication in contexts (5th ed.). New York:

McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

National Geographic Society. (2010) Concise history of world religions; An illustrated time line. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society.

Shepley, N. (2012). Red Sun Rising. London: Andrews UK Limited.

Storlopare, P. A life in Japan. Documentarylovers.com/film/a-life-in-Japan/

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