Early Buddhist Japan

by Kidder, J. Edward

The introduction of Buddhism in the middle of the sixth century AD is often regarded as the beginning of cultural history in Japan. Certainly the character of Japanese society was radically altered by this intrusion of continental civilization. Marked by the Taika Reform of 645-6, it led in turn to the establishment of the capital of Fujiwara as the first grid-plan city in 694, the promulgation of the Taiho Civil and Penal Codes in the early eighth century, and the transfer of the capital to Heijo (Nara) in 710. Professor Kidder uses the widest range of archaeological evidence to discuss such questions as the early palaces, the development of temple architecture, the cult of relics, the building of stockades, castles and other fortifications, city plans and the land distribution system in rural areas, Shinto worship sites, and the use of coins in the economy.