Japan: early feudal history AD 400–1192

For the earlier history of Japan, see Japan: prehistoric and ancient history to AD 400.

The period AD 400 to 1192 saw the establishment of a feudal society, initially under the Yamato dynasty. The Yamato era (5th–9th centuries) saw the adoption of Chinese culture and political organization, particularly during the Taiku government reforms of the 7th century. Buddhism was introduced in the 6th century. The Fujiwara family dominated the government and emperor from the 9th century to 1068, but were eventually ousted by the Taira family in 1160. In 1192 their rivals, the Minamoto, introduced the shogunate system which was to rule Japan until 1868.

Other developments during the period include the introduction of writing in the 5th century, and the building of Japan's first capital, Nara, in 710.