In order to understand any contemporary society, a knowledge of its history is essential. The following pages present the most general facts of Japanese history.

Periods of Japanese History

• Early Japan (until 710)
• Nara and Heian Periods (710-1192)
• Kamakura Period (1192-1333)
• Muromachi Period (1338-1573)
• Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1573-1603)
• Edo Period (1603-1868)
• Meiji Period (1868-1912)
• Taisho and Early Showa Period (1912-1945)
• Postwar Period (since 1945)

Other History Related Pages

• History Overview
• Emperor
• Samurai
• Castles
• Ninja
• Ainu
• Calendars
• Religion