The national anthem of Japan is Kimigayo.
[Lyrics]
Kimigayo wa
Chiyo ni yachiyo ni
Sazare-ishi no
Iwao to narite
Koke no musu made
I
suppose many people think it prays that the emperor's reign last
forever. The first word of the lyrics "Kimigayo" is regarded as the
emperor's reign. According to the government, today's emperor is the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people under the constitution, so Kimigayo means Japan where the symbolic emperor lives.
Kimigayo has legal basis. The Act on National Flag and Anthem provides that the national anthem is Kimigayo
and states the words and music. But it was only recently that the act
was enacted. Before the act was enacted in 1999, many Japanese people
regarded the song as national anthem by convention. But some people
thought Kimigayo was not appropriate for the national anthem. According to them, that is because Kimigayo praises emperor, and the song was used to propagandize nationalism under Japanese militaristic imperialism in the mid 20th century.
Kimigayo first appears in Kokin Wakashu,
a poem anthology compiled in early 10th century. The author of the poem
is unknown. Although the poem is slightly different from today's
Kimigayo's lyrics, it is viewed as, so to speak, the prototype of
Kimigayo.
Japanese people had recited Kimigayo
for hundreds of years as a happy poem before it is regarded as the
national anthem. Kimigayo was first composed by the English musician
John William Fenton in 1870 but was abolished in 1876. In 1880 the
Imperial Household Agency composed a new melody. In 1893 the Ministry of
Education required the new song be sung at primary school ceremonies.
Since then the new song has been took root.
2012年6月17日日曜日
2011年8月10日水曜日
The national flag of Japan
The national flag of Japan is a white background with a crimson circle in the center. The crimson circle represents the sun.
Formal name of the flag is Nisshoki, but we Japanese usually call it Hinomaru. The Act on National Flag and Anthem provides that the height of the flag is two-thirds of the width. And the diameter of the circle is three-fifth of the height.
Before Hinomaru was used as the national flag, Japanese people used the combination of red crimson and white background. The combination was confirmed in old pictures not only in flags but in folding fans.
In 1854 the Tokugawa shogunate, then government, decided that Japanese vessels should fly Hinomaru flags as a mark of Japan to distinguish them from other countries' vessels. This is the first time Hinomaru has been used as the national flag.
In 1868 a new government was established. When it comes to Hinomaru, it followed the previous government. The Grand Council of State, the highest government office of the new government, also proclaimed that vessels should fly Hinomaru as the national flag of Japan in 1870.
There was no legal basis for the national flag. But Japanese people regarded Hinomaru as their national flag by custom.
Some Japanese people have negative feeling about Hinomaru. Some of them make an objection to regard Hinomaru as the national flag. They connect Hinomaru with Japanese militarism and wars of aggression in World War II. Left-wing people tend to think so. On the other hand, right-wing people tend to respect Hinomaru.
In 1999 Act on National Flag and Anthem was put in effect. Since then Hinomaru has had legal basis.
Formal name of the flag is Nisshoki, but we Japanese usually call it Hinomaru. The Act on National Flag and Anthem provides that the height of the flag is two-thirds of the width. And the diameter of the circle is three-fifth of the height.
Before Hinomaru was used as the national flag, Japanese people used the combination of red crimson and white background. The combination was confirmed in old pictures not only in flags but in folding fans.
In 1854 the Tokugawa shogunate, then government, decided that Japanese vessels should fly Hinomaru flags as a mark of Japan to distinguish them from other countries' vessels. This is the first time Hinomaru has been used as the national flag.
In 1868 a new government was established. When it comes to Hinomaru, it followed the previous government. The Grand Council of State, the highest government office of the new government, also proclaimed that vessels should fly Hinomaru as the national flag of Japan in 1870.
There was no legal basis for the national flag. But Japanese people regarded Hinomaru as their national flag by custom.
Some Japanese people have negative feeling about Hinomaru. Some of them make an objection to regard Hinomaru as the national flag. They connect Hinomaru with Japanese militarism and wars of aggression in World War II. Left-wing people tend to think so. On the other hand, right-wing people tend to respect Hinomaru.
In 1999 Act on National Flag and Anthem was put in effect. Since then Hinomaru has had legal basis.
2011年4月12日火曜日
Miscellaneous writings about disaster in Japan
Most Japanese people don't read English written newspapers. But the Japanese media sometimes report what the Western media cover. It also report how the Western media cover Japan. That has influence on Japanese people. A recent case that gain Japanese people's much attention is a Washington Post's column. A WP's columnist Al Kamen wrote "increasingly loopy Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama" on April 14, 2010. The word "loopy" became well-know among most Japanese people.
Today the Western media affect Japanese people significantly. It has been admiring Japanese people's resilience, stoicism, gaman, etc. Many Japanese media reported that. And a lot of Japanese people read the coverage and gain their confidence. But unfortunately, I heard that recent coverage by the Western media turn to criticism of Japanese government handling of nuclear plants.
I've sometimes read and heard a phrase "Ganbaro Nippon" (Try hard, Japan) in Japan. For example, popular TV personalities say to viewers, "Ganbaro Nippon." That is a catchline Japanese people make to encourage themselves. Japanese people try to unit together to overcome the national crisis.
On the other hand, "jishuku" is becoming prevalent. Jishuku means self-restraint. Most Japanese people think it's indiscreet to enjoy oneself when fellow country men face severe difficulties. I guess peer pressure, which is a characteristic of Japanese people, also involve jishuku atmosphere. But there's also a growing consensus that excessive jishuku weaken Japanese economy.
Today the Western media affect Japanese people significantly. It has been admiring Japanese people's resilience, stoicism, gaman, etc. Many Japanese media reported that. And a lot of Japanese people read the coverage and gain their confidence. But unfortunately, I heard that recent coverage by the Western media turn to criticism of Japanese government handling of nuclear plants.
I've sometimes read and heard a phrase "Ganbaro Nippon" (Try hard, Japan) in Japan. For example, popular TV personalities say to viewers, "Ganbaro Nippon." That is a catchline Japanese people make to encourage themselves. Japanese people try to unit together to overcome the national crisis.
On the other hand, "jishuku" is becoming prevalent. Jishuku means self-restraint. Most Japanese people think it's indiscreet to enjoy oneself when fellow country men face severe difficulties. I guess peer pressure, which is a characteristic of Japanese people, also involve jishuku atmosphere. But there's also a growing consensus that excessive jishuku weaken Japanese economy.
2011年3月28日月曜日
Devastating earthquake in Japan
A devastating earthquake hit Japan on March 11. The earthquake caused a destructive tsunami and that swept through northeast Japan. It also damaged Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and radioactivity leaked into the air and sea. Major affected areas are Tohoku and north Kanto region, such as Miyagi, Iwate, Fukushima and Ibaraki prefectures.
Disaster also affected Kanto region, including Tokyo. Infrastructure was partially paralyzed and aftershocks has been occurring again and again.
Western Japan doesn't suffer from the disaster. Although the media repetitively emphasizes catastrophe in northeast Japan, many areas are peaceful.
* * * * * * * * * *
But most Japanese people, including those who live in western Japan, don't think the disaster as somebody else's problem. Many of them felt great sympathy for victims and evacuees. Many of them do what they can to help victims and evacuees. A lot of organizations launch fund raising campaign. Large numbers of people cooperate to save electricity. But unfortunately, some people who live in safe regions hoard essential goods.
I live in western Japan. So, I didn't face the disaster. Most people around me live their lives as usual. But some people seem to hoard mineral waters and dry-cell batteries. Some essential goods and emergency supplies are sold out in most shops. Economic activities contract because supply chain partially based on northeast Japan is damaged. On the other hand, many organizations, including local governments, local broadcasting stations, etc. conduct fund raising campaign.
Disaster also affected Kanto region, including Tokyo. Infrastructure was partially paralyzed and aftershocks has been occurring again and again.
Western Japan doesn't suffer from the disaster. Although the media repetitively emphasizes catastrophe in northeast Japan, many areas are peaceful.
* * * * * * * * * *
But most Japanese people, including those who live in western Japan, don't think the disaster as somebody else's problem. Many of them felt great sympathy for victims and evacuees. Many of them do what they can to help victims and evacuees. A lot of organizations launch fund raising campaign. Large numbers of people cooperate to save electricity. But unfortunately, some people who live in safe regions hoard essential goods.
I live in western Japan. So, I didn't face the disaster. Most people around me live their lives as usual. But some people seem to hoard mineral waters and dry-cell batteries. Some essential goods and emergency supplies are sold out in most shops. Economic activities contract because supply chain partially based on northeast Japan is damaged. On the other hand, many organizations, including local governments, local broadcasting stations, etc. conduct fund raising campaign.
2011年3月17日木曜日
Japan in Japanese is Nihon or Nippon
Japan is an exonym. In Japanese Nihon or Nippon.
[History]
In earlier times, my country's name was Yamato or Oyamato, because the government was located in Yamato region, western Japan.
About the sixth century, the name Nihon and Nippon began to be used. Nihon or Nippon originally means the far eastern country where the sun rises first.
In 1299 Marco Polo first introduced Japan to Europe as Zipangu in his book Books of the Marvels of the World. It is said that Marco Polo heard the pronunciation of Nihon Koku or Nippon Koku (Koku means nation) in language of Beijing as Zipangu. That's the origin of an exonym Japan.
[Which is correct: Nihon or Nippon?]
So, which is correct, Nihon or Nippon? The answer is both are correct. There are no legal bases for name of the country in Japan. Both are commonly used. But externally, Nippon was usually used. In compound word, Nihon is likely to be used (e.g. Nihon go).
[Usage of Nihon]
Nihon go (Japanese)
Nihon Kai (the Sea of Japan)
Nihon shu (Sake)
[Usage of Nippon]
Nippon ichi (number one in Japan)
Gabmare Nippon! (Go, Japan!)
Dai Nippon Teikoku (Empire of Japan)
[Cases both Nihon and Nippon are OK]
Nihon jin or Nippon jin (Japanese people)
Nihon Koku Kenpou or Nippon Koku Kepou (The Japanese Constitution)
Nihon Rettou or Nippon Rettou (the Japanese Archipelago)
Nihon Ginko or Nippon Ginko (Bank of Japan) *
* A phrase "Nippon Ginko" is printed on Banknotes of the Japanese yen. So, clerks of the BOJ tend to say Nippon Ginko. But many Japanese people also commonly say "Nihon Ginko." Bank of Japan Act doesn't state which is correct.
[History]
In earlier times, my country's name was Yamato or Oyamato, because the government was located in Yamato region, western Japan.
About the sixth century, the name Nihon and Nippon began to be used. Nihon or Nippon originally means the far eastern country where the sun rises first.
In 1299 Marco Polo first introduced Japan to Europe as Zipangu in his book Books of the Marvels of the World. It is said that Marco Polo heard the pronunciation of Nihon Koku or Nippon Koku (Koku means nation) in language of Beijing as Zipangu. That's the origin of an exonym Japan.
[Which is correct: Nihon or Nippon?]
So, which is correct, Nihon or Nippon? The answer is both are correct. There are no legal bases for name of the country in Japan. Both are commonly used. But externally, Nippon was usually used. In compound word, Nihon is likely to be used (e.g. Nihon go).
[Usage of Nihon]
Nihon go (Japanese)
Nihon Kai (the Sea of Japan)
Nihon shu (Sake)
[Usage of Nippon]
Nippon ichi (number one in Japan)
Gabmare Nippon! (Go, Japan!)
Dai Nippon Teikoku (Empire of Japan)
[Cases both Nihon and Nippon are OK]
Nihon jin or Nippon jin (Japanese people)
Nihon Koku Kenpou or Nippon Koku Kepou (The Japanese Constitution)
Nihon Rettou or Nippon Rettou (the Japanese Archipelago)
Nihon Ginko or Nippon Ginko (Bank of Japan) *
* A phrase "Nippon Ginko" is printed on Banknotes of the Japanese yen. So, clerks of the BOJ tend to say Nippon Ginko. But many Japanese people also commonly say "Nihon Ginko." Bank of Japan Act doesn't state which is correct.
2011年1月24日月曜日
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
* Bakumatsu (the last days of the Tokugawa shogunate) *
Matthew C. Perry, Commodore of the US Navy, visited Japan in 1853 and 1854 with a squadron of war vessels called "Kurofune (Black Ships)". And he demanded to open the door to the US. The Tokugawa Shogunate bowed to the pressure and concluded the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the US and Japan that included opening Shimoda and Hakodate ports. The Shogunate then concluded the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the US and Japan in 1858 that included unfavorable articles for Japan. It also concluded similar treaties with other European countries.
That caused sono joi ("Revere the Emperor, expel the barbarians") movement. But it became clear that it was impossible for Japan to expel Western countries, because powerful Hans, e.g. Satsuma Han and Choshu Han lost battles with European countries. Instead, Satsuma and Choshu cooperated each other and tried to overthrow the Shogunate to rebuild Japan under the emperor. But Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the 15th Shogun, announced that it returned it's governing power to the imperial court (Taisei Hokan) to avoid being overthrown. Satsuma and Choshu declared Osei Fukko (Restoration of Imperial Rule), and the new government, including Satsuma and Choshu, decided that it demanded that Yoshinobu resign government post and return shogunate's territory. Former shogunate troops resisted it and fought against the new government (Boshin War 1868-1869). But it was defeated, and the new government unified the nation.
[Modern Japan]
* the Meiji Restoration *
The new government announced new policies as a form of the Emperor's oath in 1868 (Charter Oath). Several political reforms were implemented to modernize Japan. For example, Edo was renamed Tokyo in 1868. In 1871 the government abolished Han and established prefecture instead (Haihan Chiken). To enrich the nation and strengthen the military, the government promoted the modernization of industry. A series of political reforms are called the Meiji Restoration.
And new political system was established. The cabinet system was adopted in 1885. The first modern constitution was promulgated in 1889. And the first Imperial diet was convened in 1890. Japan became a constitutional monarchy.
* Sino-Japanese War *
Japan and the Qing fought a war from 1894 to 1895 because of the conflict over Korea. Japan achieved a victory and concluded the Treaty of Shimonoseki. The treaty guaranteed that (a) Qing recognize the independent of Korea (b) Qing cedes Liaodong Peninsula and Taiwan to Japan (c) Qing pay Japan 200 million Kuping taels as a war indemnity, etc. But Japan was forced to return Liaodong Peninsula because Russia, Germany and France demanded the claim be withdrawn.
* Russo-Japanese War *
Japan and Russia fought a war from 1904 to 1905 because of the conflict over Manchuria and Korea. Japan achieved a victory and signed the Treaty of Portsmouth under the mediation of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Japan gained dominant power in Korea, control of the southern portion of the Chinese Eastern Railway, etc.
* Japan as a military power *
In 1918 the first party cabinet "Hara Takashi cabinet" was formed. Since then party cabinets had been in power. But the Great Depression leaded to the rise of the military. Japan became a military power. Japan waged war against China and the US but surrendered unconditionally to the Allied Powers in 1945.
[Postwar Japan]
Japan was occupied by Allied Powers, especially US forces. General Headquarters of the Allied Forces was established and it ordered Japanese government to implement many reforms to democratize Japan. Enacting a new constitution was one of them. The three major principles of the new constitution was (a) popular sovereignty (not emperor's sovereignty) (b) respect for fundamental human rights (c) pacifism. The status of the emperor was stated as "the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people." In 1951 US and 45 other Allied nations singed the Treaty of Peace with Japan. Based on the treaty, Japan's autonomy was restored in 1952.
After that Japan enjoyed rapid economic growth from late 1950s and 1960s and became an economic powerhouse.
(End)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
Matthew C. Perry, Commodore of the US Navy, visited Japan in 1853 and 1854 with a squadron of war vessels called "Kurofune (Black Ships)". And he demanded to open the door to the US. The Tokugawa Shogunate bowed to the pressure and concluded the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the US and Japan that included opening Shimoda and Hakodate ports. The Shogunate then concluded the Treaty of Peace and Amity between the US and Japan in 1858 that included unfavorable articles for Japan. It also concluded similar treaties with other European countries.
That caused sono joi ("Revere the Emperor, expel the barbarians") movement. But it became clear that it was impossible for Japan to expel Western countries, because powerful Hans, e.g. Satsuma Han and Choshu Han lost battles with European countries. Instead, Satsuma and Choshu cooperated each other and tried to overthrow the Shogunate to rebuild Japan under the emperor. But Tokugawa Yoshinobu, the 15th Shogun, announced that it returned it's governing power to the imperial court (Taisei Hokan) to avoid being overthrown. Satsuma and Choshu declared Osei Fukko (Restoration of Imperial Rule), and the new government, including Satsuma and Choshu, decided that it demanded that Yoshinobu resign government post and return shogunate's territory. Former shogunate troops resisted it and fought against the new government (Boshin War 1868-1869). But it was defeated, and the new government unified the nation.
[Modern Japan]
* the Meiji Restoration *
The new government announced new policies as a form of the Emperor's oath in 1868 (Charter Oath). Several political reforms were implemented to modernize Japan. For example, Edo was renamed Tokyo in 1868. In 1871 the government abolished Han and established prefecture instead (Haihan Chiken). To enrich the nation and strengthen the military, the government promoted the modernization of industry. A series of political reforms are called the Meiji Restoration.
And new political system was established. The cabinet system was adopted in 1885. The first modern constitution was promulgated in 1889. And the first Imperial diet was convened in 1890. Japan became a constitutional monarchy.
* Sino-Japanese War *
Japan and the Qing fought a war from 1894 to 1895 because of the conflict over Korea. Japan achieved a victory and concluded the Treaty of Shimonoseki. The treaty guaranteed that (a) Qing recognize the independent of Korea (b) Qing cedes Liaodong Peninsula and Taiwan to Japan (c) Qing pay Japan 200 million Kuping taels as a war indemnity, etc. But Japan was forced to return Liaodong Peninsula because Russia, Germany and France demanded the claim be withdrawn.
* Russo-Japanese War *
Japan and Russia fought a war from 1904 to 1905 because of the conflict over Manchuria and Korea. Japan achieved a victory and signed the Treaty of Portsmouth under the mediation of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. Japan gained dominant power in Korea, control of the southern portion of the Chinese Eastern Railway, etc.
* Japan as a military power *
In 1918 the first party cabinet "Hara Takashi cabinet" was formed. Since then party cabinets had been in power. But the Great Depression leaded to the rise of the military. Japan became a military power. Japan waged war against China and the US but surrendered unconditionally to the Allied Powers in 1945.
[Postwar Japan]
Japan was occupied by Allied Powers, especially US forces. General Headquarters of the Allied Forces was established and it ordered Japanese government to implement many reforms to democratize Japan. Enacting a new constitution was one of them. The three major principles of the new constitution was (a) popular sovereignty (not emperor's sovereignty) (b) respect for fundamental human rights (c) pacifism. The status of the emperor was stated as "the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people." In 1951 US and 45 other Allied nations singed the Treaty of Peace with Japan. Based on the treaty, Japan's autonomy was restored in 1952.
After that Japan enjoyed rapid economic growth from late 1950s and 1960s and became an economic powerhouse.
(End)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
2010年10月4日月曜日
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
*Sengoku period*
After the Onin war, Shogunate lost power and so called Sengoku period (Warring States period) started. Daimyos (Sengoku Daimyo) ruled their provinces not by endorsement of the Shogunate power but by their force. Representative examples of Sengoku Daimyo are Hojo Soun, Mori Motonari, Takeda Shingen, Uesugi Kenshin, Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Among them, Oda Nobunaga made a major progress in unifying the whole country. He overthrew Muromachi Shogunate in 1573 and defeated adversaries with new arms Teppo (gun). But in the midst of unifying the country, he was died because his retainer Akechi Mitsuhide betrayed him and attacked him at Honno-ji in 1582 (Honnoji Incident).
After Nobunaga died, Hashiba Hideyoshi, Nobunaga's retainer, defeated Mitsuhide and took over Nobunaga's work of unification. He was appointed Kanpaku (the chief adviser to the Emperor) in 1586 and given the name Toyotomi (Toyotomi Hideyoshi) in 1587 by imperial court. Then he defeated the Hojo clan in 1590, and eastern Daimyos such as Date Masamune swore allegiance to him. He achieved unification.
[Edo period]
After Hideyoshi died, Daimyos divided into two groups: pro-Toyotomi clan group and pro-Tokugawa Ieyasu group. Tokugawa Ieyasu was one of the most powerful Daimyo based on Edo, which is now called Tokyo. Ieyasu defeated pro-Toyotomi group at Sekigahara in 1600 (Battle of Sekigahara) and was appointed Shogun in 1603 (Edo Shogunate).
And he defeated Toyotomi clan in 1615. Japan was unified under Tokugawa clan.
* Bakuhan system *
We call the ruling system of Tokugawa Shogunate (or Bakufu) and Daimyos Bakuhan system. Han means Daimyo's territory or its ruling system.
* Governing by suppression *
Shogunate ruled by suppression from the reign of the first Shogun Ieyasu to the third Shogun Iemitsu. Shogunate issued Laws for Military Houses in 1615 and cracked down Hans. If they broke the laws, their fiefdoms could be confiscated (Kaieki), cut (Genpou) and exchanged (Kunigae).
In 1612 Shogunate issued Anti-Christian Edicts, because it saw Christianity as a menace for it. This was followed by ban on traffic and restriction on trade with foreign countries (Sakoku) to crack down on Christianity more perfectly.
* Governing by law and Confucianism *
As Shogunate confiscated many Han's fiefdoms, there were many masterless samurais (Ronin). Yui Shosetsu, a military strategist, took advantage of them and attempted coup in 1651. Although the coup failed, the affair made Shogunate change its way of governing from by suppression to by law and Confucianism.
* Reforms of the shogunate government *
Shogunate finances depended on rice. But money economy developed in the latter half of the seventeenth century. So, merchants became wealthy, on the other hand, Shogunate faced financial difficulities. Shogunate made political reforms to tackle the problems. Kyoho reforms (by Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eighth Shogun), Kansei Reforms (by Matsudaira Sadanobu, the member of the Shogun's Council of Elders) and Tempo reforms (by Mizuno Tadakuni, a member of the Shogun's Council of Elders) are regarded three reforms in Edo period. But the reforms didn't necessarily succeed.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
After the Onin war, Shogunate lost power and so called Sengoku period (Warring States period) started. Daimyos (Sengoku Daimyo) ruled their provinces not by endorsement of the Shogunate power but by their force. Representative examples of Sengoku Daimyo are Hojo Soun, Mori Motonari, Takeda Shingen, Uesugi Kenshin, Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Among them, Oda Nobunaga made a major progress in unifying the whole country. He overthrew Muromachi Shogunate in 1573 and defeated adversaries with new arms Teppo (gun). But in the midst of unifying the country, he was died because his retainer Akechi Mitsuhide betrayed him and attacked him at Honno-ji in 1582 (Honnoji Incident).
After Nobunaga died, Hashiba Hideyoshi, Nobunaga's retainer, defeated Mitsuhide and took over Nobunaga's work of unification. He was appointed Kanpaku (the chief adviser to the Emperor) in 1586 and given the name Toyotomi (Toyotomi Hideyoshi) in 1587 by imperial court. Then he defeated the Hojo clan in 1590, and eastern Daimyos such as Date Masamune swore allegiance to him. He achieved unification.
[Edo period]
After Hideyoshi died, Daimyos divided into two groups: pro-Toyotomi clan group and pro-Tokugawa Ieyasu group. Tokugawa Ieyasu was one of the most powerful Daimyo based on Edo, which is now called Tokyo. Ieyasu defeated pro-Toyotomi group at Sekigahara in 1600 (Battle of Sekigahara) and was appointed Shogun in 1603 (Edo Shogunate).
And he defeated Toyotomi clan in 1615. Japan was unified under Tokugawa clan.
* Bakuhan system *
We call the ruling system of Tokugawa Shogunate (or Bakufu) and Daimyos Bakuhan system. Han means Daimyo's territory or its ruling system.
* Governing by suppression *
Shogunate ruled by suppression from the reign of the first Shogun Ieyasu to the third Shogun Iemitsu. Shogunate issued Laws for Military Houses in 1615 and cracked down Hans. If they broke the laws, their fiefdoms could be confiscated (Kaieki), cut (Genpou) and exchanged (Kunigae).
In 1612 Shogunate issued Anti-Christian Edicts, because it saw Christianity as a menace for it. This was followed by ban on traffic and restriction on trade with foreign countries (Sakoku) to crack down on Christianity more perfectly.
* Governing by law and Confucianism *
As Shogunate confiscated many Han's fiefdoms, there were many masterless samurais (Ronin). Yui Shosetsu, a military strategist, took advantage of them and attempted coup in 1651. Although the coup failed, the affair made Shogunate change its way of governing from by suppression to by law and Confucianism.
* Reforms of the shogunate government *
Shogunate finances depended on rice. But money economy developed in the latter half of the seventeenth century. So, merchants became wealthy, on the other hand, Shogunate faced financial difficulities. Shogunate made political reforms to tackle the problems. Kyoho reforms (by Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eighth Shogun), Kansei Reforms (by Matsudaira Sadanobu, the member of the Shogun's Council of Elders) and Tempo reforms (by Mizuno Tadakuni, a member of the Shogun's Council of Elders) are regarded three reforms in Edo period. But the reforms didn't necessarily succeed.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
2010年9月14日火曜日
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
[Kamakura period]
From 1185 to 1333 is called the Kamakura period. Kamakura period is the first era of samurai government.
Minamoto no Yoritomo, heir to the chieftainship of the Minamoto clan, formed a basis for the government. In 1185, he placed Shugo (military commissioner) and Jito (lord of the manor) around the country. In 1192 he was appointed by the emperor as a Shogun (military leader). In this way, Kamaura Shogunate was established in Kamakura. In the mean time he defeated adversaries such as Taira and Fujiwara clan.
After Yoritomo died, Hojo clan held power as regent instead of Minamoto clan.
Both imperial court and Shogunate had political power. In 1221 the imperial court launched a fight against Shogunate to restore the power. But it was defeated and lost power.
In 1274 and 1281 the Yuan dynasty invaded Hakata, western Japan. Shogunate deployed troops and made them fight with Yuan troops. As a result, Yuan's invasion failed. But Shogunate couldn't provide reward for samurai. Shogunate betrayed samurai's trust in it. In addition, samurai was in poverty.
Emperor Go-Daigo tried to overthrow the Shogunate but failed. Subsequently, many samurai - Ashikaga Takauji, for example revolted against the Shogunate. Finally, Shogunate was fallen.
[Kemmu restoration]
After Shogunate was overthrown, Emperor Go-Daigo took helm. His political reform is called Kenmu restoration (1333-1336).
[Muromachi period]
*Nanbokucho period*
But Ashikaga Takauji provoked revolt against Emperor Go-Daigo. Takauji enthroned Emperor Komyo in Kyoto and promulgated a legal code Kemmu Shikimoku to found a new Shogunate in 1336. Emperor Go-Daigo escaped from Kyoto into Yoshino and asserted that he was the true heir to the throne. Thus, two Emperors existed. Kyoto court is called Northern Court (Hokucho). Yoshino court is called Southern Court (Nancho). Both courts fought each other fiercely. In 1392 both courts finally established a unity.
Shogunate was in stable period. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third Shogun, built a huge mansion called "Hana no gosho" in Muromachi in Kyoto and relocated Shogunate there. So, we call this Shogunate "Muromachi Shogunate." Yoshimitsu developed a system of Shogunate and traded with Ming Dynasty.
When Ashikaga Yoshimasa was the eighth Shogun, power of Shogunate weakened. Instead, some Shugo Daimyos, leading vassals of the Shogunate who ruled their provinces, expanded their influence. Against the backdrop of the political environment, disputes about succession of Shogunate and two powerful Shugo caused a nationwide war called Onin war from 1467 to 1477.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
From 1185 to 1333 is called the Kamakura period. Kamakura period is the first era of samurai government.
Minamoto no Yoritomo, heir to the chieftainship of the Minamoto clan, formed a basis for the government. In 1185, he placed Shugo (military commissioner) and Jito (lord of the manor) around the country. In 1192 he was appointed by the emperor as a Shogun (military leader). In this way, Kamaura Shogunate was established in Kamakura. In the mean time he defeated adversaries such as Taira and Fujiwara clan.
After Yoritomo died, Hojo clan held power as regent instead of Minamoto clan.
Both imperial court and Shogunate had political power. In 1221 the imperial court launched a fight against Shogunate to restore the power. But it was defeated and lost power.
In 1274 and 1281 the Yuan dynasty invaded Hakata, western Japan. Shogunate deployed troops and made them fight with Yuan troops. As a result, Yuan's invasion failed. But Shogunate couldn't provide reward for samurai. Shogunate betrayed samurai's trust in it. In addition, samurai was in poverty.
Emperor Go-Daigo tried to overthrow the Shogunate but failed. Subsequently, many samurai - Ashikaga Takauji, for example revolted against the Shogunate. Finally, Shogunate was fallen.
[Kemmu restoration]
After Shogunate was overthrown, Emperor Go-Daigo took helm. His political reform is called Kenmu restoration (1333-1336).
[Muromachi period]
*Nanbokucho period*
But Ashikaga Takauji provoked revolt against Emperor Go-Daigo. Takauji enthroned Emperor Komyo in Kyoto and promulgated a legal code Kemmu Shikimoku to found a new Shogunate in 1336. Emperor Go-Daigo escaped from Kyoto into Yoshino and asserted that he was the true heir to the throne. Thus, two Emperors existed. Kyoto court is called Northern Court (Hokucho). Yoshino court is called Southern Court (Nancho). Both courts fought each other fiercely. In 1392 both courts finally established a unity.
Shogunate was in stable period. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third Shogun, built a huge mansion called "Hana no gosho" in Muromachi in Kyoto and relocated Shogunate there. So, we call this Shogunate "Muromachi Shogunate." Yoshimitsu developed a system of Shogunate and traded with Ming Dynasty.
When Ashikaga Yoshimasa was the eighth Shogun, power of Shogunate weakened. Instead, some Shugo Daimyos, leading vassals of the Shogunate who ruled their provinces, expanded their influence. Against the backdrop of the political environment, disputes about succession of Shogunate and two powerful Shugo caused a nationwide war called Onin war from 1467 to 1477.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
2010年8月22日日曜日
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
During Pleistocene Epoch, Japanese Archipelago was connected to the Eurasian Continent. It is thought that many people flew in Japanese Archipelago from the continent. Japanese people in this era used chipped stone tool (Palaeolithic).
During Holocene Epoch, Japanese Archipelago became separated to the continent. Japanese people in this era used polished stone tool in addition to chipped stone tool (Neolithic).
[the Jomon period]
About from the 100th century B.C. to the third century B.C. is called the Jomon period. The origin of the Jomon is Jomon ware, straw-rope pattern pottery people in this era made. During the period, people lived mainly by hunting and gathering. And at least at the end of the period, people cultivated rice.
[the Yayoi period]
About from the third century B.C. to the third century A.D. is the Yayoi period. The origin of the Yayoi is Yayoi ware, red and thin pottery people in this era made. During the period many provinces existed and fought each other. The most famous province among Japanese people is Yamataikoku, described in Sanguozhi, Chinese classic. According to Sanguozhi, Yamataikoku ruled many provinces when a female shaman Himiko was a monarch.
[the Kofun period (the Tumulus period) ]
About from the third century to the seventh century is the Kofun period. Kofun means tumulus. Many tumuli were made around Japan. During the period, Yamato government had considerable power. Yamato government was based on Yamato region, central Japan.
[the Asuka period]
About from the end of the sixth century to 710 is the Asuka period. During the peiod Asuka was the capital of Japan.
From 593 to 622, Shotoku Taishi (Prince Shotoku) made several political reforms as regent of Empress Suiko. For instance, he developed a promotion system to rank officials into 12 levels, established the Seventeen-article Constitution (Japan's first written code of laws) and dispatched emissaries to Sui to establish democratic relations with Sui and have them learnt Sui's social systems and cultures.
In the early eighth century, the government developed a system for governing country by establishing the ritsuryo legal codes.
[Nara period]
From 710 to 784 is Nara period. In 710, the government relocated the capital to Nara. During this period the government completed the centralized system. And the government dispatched many students to Tang to have them learnt advanced foreign cultures. Buddhism developed, because the government protected Buddhism.
[Heian period]
From 794 to 1185 is Heian period. In 794, the government relocated the capital to Heiankyo, now known as Kyoto. In the period, the Emperor and noblemen took power. But at the end of the period, samurai gained power and influence over politics.
The government ceased to dispatch students to Tang in 894. As Japan disconnected from the continent, unique culture developed. Hiragana and Katakana began to be used in this period.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
During Holocene Epoch, Japanese Archipelago became separated to the continent. Japanese people in this era used polished stone tool in addition to chipped stone tool (Neolithic).
[the Jomon period]
About from the 100th century B.C. to the third century B.C. is called the Jomon period. The origin of the Jomon is Jomon ware, straw-rope pattern pottery people in this era made. During the period, people lived mainly by hunting and gathering. And at least at the end of the period, people cultivated rice.
[the Yayoi period]
About from the third century B.C. to the third century A.D. is the Yayoi period. The origin of the Yayoi is Yayoi ware, red and thin pottery people in this era made. During the period many provinces existed and fought each other. The most famous province among Japanese people is Yamataikoku, described in Sanguozhi, Chinese classic. According to Sanguozhi, Yamataikoku ruled many provinces when a female shaman Himiko was a monarch.
[the Kofun period (the Tumulus period) ]
About from the third century to the seventh century is the Kofun period. Kofun means tumulus. Many tumuli were made around Japan. During the period, Yamato government had considerable power. Yamato government was based on Yamato region, central Japan.
[the Asuka period]
About from the end of the sixth century to 710 is the Asuka period. During the peiod Asuka was the capital of Japan.
From 593 to 622, Shotoku Taishi (Prince Shotoku) made several political reforms as regent of Empress Suiko. For instance, he developed a promotion system to rank officials into 12 levels, established the Seventeen-article Constitution (Japan's first written code of laws) and dispatched emissaries to Sui to establish democratic relations with Sui and have them learnt Sui's social systems and cultures.
In the early eighth century, the government developed a system for governing country by establishing the ritsuryo legal codes.
[Nara period]
From 710 to 784 is Nara period. In 710, the government relocated the capital to Nara. During this period the government completed the centralized system. And the government dispatched many students to Tang to have them learnt advanced foreign cultures. Buddhism developed, because the government protected Buddhism.
[Heian period]
From 794 to 1185 is Heian period. In 794, the government relocated the capital to Heiankyo, now known as Kyoto. In the period, the Emperor and noblemen took power. But at the end of the period, samurai gained power and influence over politics.
The government ceased to dispatch students to Tang in 894. As Japan disconnected from the continent, unique culture developed. Hiragana and Katakana began to be used in this period.
(To be continued)
A brief outline of Japanese history (1)
A brief outline of Japanese history (2)
A brief outline of Japanese history (3)
A brief outline of Japanese history (4)
2010年8月10日火曜日
About this blog, privacy policy
Welcome to my blog "Personal Japanology."
[About this blog]
The main aim of this blog is to provide information on Japan. It's a personal blog, so I don't have detailed plans.
I'm sorry I don' allow you to comment this blog. My email address is smjournal77@yahoo.co.jp
[About me]
My name is Hiroshi Tomishige. I'm a native Japanese male. I've lived in Japan since I was born. I spend all day managing my websites. Now I'm unemployed. :((
I'm not a specialist in Japanology. I was educated in Economics at a Japanese university.
I study English every day to read and write correctly. One purpose of writing this blog is to improve my English writing skills.
[Privacy Policy]
Personal Japanology uses cookies and web beacons to collect data. The use of cookies and web beacons is an industry standard.
A Cookie is a small piece of information that web sites send to your computers temporarily and later retrieve. You can configure your web browser to reject Cookies. A web beacon is a small graphic image on a web page that tracks user's behavior.
PJ use use Cookies and web beacons in the course of website tracking. PJ track information such as your remote host, country/language, HTTP user agent, HTTP Referer, display resolution, etc.
[Related websites]
Selective Mutism - My Memories
http://selectivemutism-mm.blogspot.com/
(New window open)
Hikikomori - Social withdrawal in Japan
http://nhjournal37.blogspot.com/
(New window open)
[About this blog]
The main aim of this blog is to provide information on Japan. It's a personal blog, so I don't have detailed plans.
I'm sorry I don' allow you to comment this blog. My email address is smjournal77@yahoo.co.jp
[About me]
My name is Hiroshi Tomishige. I'm a native Japanese male. I've lived in Japan since I was born. I spend all day managing my websites. Now I'm unemployed. :((
I'm not a specialist in Japanology. I was educated in Economics at a Japanese university.
I study English every day to read and write correctly. One purpose of writing this blog is to improve my English writing skills.
[Privacy Policy]
Personal Japanology uses cookies and web beacons to collect data. The use of cookies and web beacons is an industry standard.
A Cookie is a small piece of information that web sites send to your computers temporarily and later retrieve. You can configure your web browser to reject Cookies. A web beacon is a small graphic image on a web page that tracks user's behavior.
PJ use use Cookies and web beacons in the course of website tracking. PJ track information such as your remote host, country/language, HTTP user agent, HTTP Referer, display resolution, etc.
[Related websites]
Selective Mutism - My Memories
http://selectivemutism-mm.blogspot.com/
(New window open)
Hikikomori - Social withdrawal in Japan
http://nhjournal37.blogspot.com/
(New window open)
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