1. Early history of japan

2. The first humans to arrive in Japan were called the Jomon people, around 11,000 years ago
Lived by hunting and fishing
By 250 BC, the Yayoi group had arrived in Japan
The Yayoi introduced growing rice in Japan- became Japan’s most important crop

3. Many different clans ruled Japan by AD 200, and many wars were fought between them
The Yamato clan won total power and became very powerful
The royal family of Japan traces themselves all the way back to the Yamato clan- meaning it is the world’s oldest ruling family

4. Prince Shotoku Prince Shotoku, a regent, took power in 593
Wanted to unite all of Japan- had to reduce the power of the clan leaders
Prince Shotoku

5. Under Prince Shotoku, they visited China to study arts and government
The Japanese soon started using China’s official court system

6. After Prince Shotoku, the Taika Reform began (meaning ‘great change’
Shifted all power into the hands of an emperor instead of clan leaders, including land
Influences from China and Korea continued to influence Japan, especially with language and religion

7. Now we move into the Heian Period…
Began in 794, and was more successful than anyone in unifying Japan
Heian Empire lasted for more than 1,000 years
Now we move into the Heian Period…