Map of Japan

Japan

Rooms - 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Before the introduction of Buddhism in the 6th century from southwestern Korea, Japanese religious beliefs, Shinto, were centred around natural divine entities – kami - inhabiting and controlling all aspects of the living and material world. Buddhism helped introduce the Chinese writing system into Japan and establish Chinese as the official language of its imperial court, as  prior to this, Japan had lacked a written language of its own.

To improve their knowledge of Buddhism and Chinese culture, between 7th and 9th centuries, Japan sent envoys to the Chinese Tang (618–907) imperial court. Tang China was marked by its tolerance and openness to foreigners and the outside world, which fostered the exchange of ideas, aesthetic sensibilities and new forms. The Japanese ambassadors, on their return home, brought new tastes and customs which would influence all aspects of Japanese life, including the performing arts of dance, drama and music.

42 pieces

Updated