1. The Emergence of Japan

2. Geography of Japan Japan is located on an archipelago, which is a chain of islands. Its four main islands are: Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. It is located on the ring of fire and is subject to tsunamis.

3. Early Traditions In early Japanese times, people lived in Ujis, or clans. Around 500 A.D., the Yamato clan dominated much of the Honshu island. They set up Japan’s first and only dynasty.

4. Shintoism This is a religion that was formed in Japan. It is the worship of forces of nature. It isn’t a huge religion, but is still around today.

5. Japan and Korea Because Japan is so close to Korea, their cultures and languages seem very similar. The Koreans even introduced the Japanese to Buddhism. This caused Japan to become more interested in China.

6. Japan Looks to China Japan began trading and studying with the Chinese, which caused them to change things in the Japanese government. Over time, the Japanese excitement for China died down.

7. Kana In Japan, they developed their own language. They developed Kana, or phonetic symbols representing syllables. It looks similar to Korean or Chinese, but is distinctly different.

8. The Heian-kyo Period This was when the blending of Chinese and Japanese cultures really took place. Everyone dressed elegantly and went to court. Lady Murasaki was one of the most popular writers. She wrote The Tale of Genji.

9. Assignment Look at the section “Japan looks to China” on pg 318. List all of the items or ideas that Japan has taken from China. Pick one, draw and describe it in 3 sentences. Next Try to make 5 complete sentences using Kana. To do this use the chart provided.