Nara Period

Definition

The Nara Period refers to a significant era in Japanese history that lasted from 710 to 794 CE, marked by the establishment of the first permanent capital at Nara. This period is characterized by the flourishing of arts, literature, and the influence of Buddhism, which played a central role in shaping Japanese culture and governance during this time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Nara Period is notable for the completion of the 'Kojiki' and 'Nihon Shoki', which are Japan's oldest chronicles, documenting myths, legends, and historical events.
2. During this time, Buddhism was officially promoted by the state, leading to the construction of significant temples like Todai-ji, which housed a giant Buddha statue.
3. The first legal codes in Japan, such as the Taihō Code, were established during this period, helping to centralize political power and administrative structure.
4. The capital city of Nara was modeled after the Chinese capital Chang'an, reflecting the strong influence of Chinese culture and governance on Japanese society.
5. The Nara Period also saw advancements in poetry and prose, with the development of early forms of Japanese literature that would later evolve during the Heian Period.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of Nara as Japan's first permanent capital impact the political structure of Japan during this period?
  • The establishment of Nara as Japan's first permanent capital led to a more centralized political structure, allowing for more effective governance and administration. This change facilitated the development of legal codes like the Taihō Code, which helped organize the political landscape by standardizing laws and procedures. Furthermore, having a fixed capital enabled stronger connections between different regions of Japan and reinforced the authority of the ruling elite.
• Discuss how Buddhism's role in society evolved during the Nara Period and its effects on Japanese culture.
  • During the Nara Period, Buddhism became closely intertwined with state politics as it was actively promoted by the government. This led to significant investments in Buddhist temples and institutions, contributing to cultural developments in art and architecture. The presence of Buddhism not only shaped religious practices but also influenced various aspects of daily life and social structure. Temples served as centers for education and scholarship, which enhanced cultural exchange between Japan and China.
• Evaluate the lasting impacts of literature produced during the Nara Period on subsequent Japanese literary traditions.
  • The literature produced during the Nara Period laid foundational groundwork for future Japanese literary traditions by documenting myths, history, and culture through works like 'Kojiki' and 'Nihon Shoki'. These texts established narrative styles and themes that would resonate throughout subsequent eras, particularly influencing the Heian Period's court literature. The blending of oral traditions with written forms during this time contributed to a rich literary culture that celebrated both historical narratives and poetic expression, shaping Japan's literary identity for centuries to come.

Related terms

Buddhism: A religion and philosophy that originated in India and became a major influence in Japan during the Nara Period, promoting spiritual teachings and cultural exchange.

Heian Period: The historical period that followed the Nara Period, lasting from 794 to 1185 CE, known for its cultural advancements and the emergence of a distinctly Japanese court culture.

Taoism: A Chinese philosophy that influenced Japanese thought and practices during the Nara Period, emphasizing harmony with nature and the importance of balance.