#NaraPeriod #JapaneseHistory #Buddhism #RitsuryoSystem #samuraifree
In the early Nara period, Japan was entering a significant transitional phase in its ancient history.
During this time, a centralized political system centered around the emperor was established, and the ritsuryō system was introduced, strengthening the foundation of the state.
The ritsuryō system clearly defined tax systems, laws, and administrative operations, fundamentally changing the political framework of ancient Japan.
The ancient history of Japan is often said to begin with the formation of the Yamato polity.
The Yamato polity was formed around powerful clans that ruled various regions.
However, as time passed, contact with external entities increased, particularly with China and the Korean Peninsula, forcing changes in Japan’s political system.
The dispatch of envoys to Sui China and the introduction of Buddhism brought new influences to Japanese society.
With the introduction of the ritsuryō system, the state declared land and people as public property, establishing a new social order in which farmers served the state.
This system of public land and public people allowed the state to manage tax collection and labor assignments, aiming to ensure national stability.
Additionally, the establishment of the "Taihō Code" and the "Yōrō Code," based on the ritsuryō system, was an important step in creating a legal foundation that would deeply influence Japan's later legal system.
During this period in Japan, powerful clans sought to strengthen their authority and sometimes resisted the central government.
They expanded their landholdings and military power while seeking a relationship with the central government.
Such movements by these clans became significant factors leading to the rise of the samurai class in later years.
Moreover, during the Nara period, Buddhism spread with state support, leading to new developments in religion, philosophy, and art.
The arrival of Buddhism had a profound impact on Japanese culture, enriching the religious aspects of society through the construction of temples.
In particular, the construction of large temples such as Hōryū-ji and Tōdai-ji symbolized the political power and religious authority of the time.

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