Untitled Flashcards Set

Iwakura mission

A diplomatic journey in 1872 by a group of samurai to study modernization and renegotiate unequal treaties.

Mujo

The notion in Buddhism that all things are transient and constantly changing.

Accretion

Cultural change in Japan that arises from the gradual accumulation and transformation of styles.

Heian Period

(794–1185) Known for courtly refinement and the development of kana writing.

Meiji Restoration

The overthrow of the Tokugawa shogunate in 1868, restoring imperial rule and modernizing Japan.

Wabi

Aesthetic simplicity and rustic beauty in Japanese culture, tied to imperfection.

Bunraku

Japanese puppet theater featuring skilled puppeteers and musicians.

Zen Buddhism

A meditative school of Buddhism emphasizing mindfulness and direct experience.

Sakoku

Japan’s policy of isolation during the Edo period (1639–1854), limiting foreign trade.

The Tale of Genji

A classic novel depicting aristocratic life in the Heian period, authored by Murasaki Shikibu.

Kabuki

A traditional Japanese theater form known for dynamic acting, elaborate costumes, and makeup.

Kamikaze

Meaning 'divine wind', referring to typhoons that repelled Mongol invasions and later to WWII suicide pilots.

Great Kanto Earthquake

A devastating earthquake in 1923 that destroyed much of Tokyo and Yokohama.

Shinkansen

Japan’s high-speed bullet train, revolutionizing transportation and launched in 1964.

Hokusai

A ukiyo-e artist known for 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa'.

Sumi-e

Japanese ink wash painting characterized by simplicity and monochrome tones.

Good Wife, Wise Mother

A Meiji-era ideal promoting women's roles as homemakers and nurturers.

Japonisme

The fascination with Japanese art and culture in Europe, influencing Impressionism.

Tanizaki Junichiro

A writer known for exploring aesthetics, eroticism, and the tension between traditional Japanese and modern Western values.

Haiku

A concise form of Japanese poetry with 3 lines and a 5-7-5 syllable structure.

Lotus Sutra

A key Mahayana Buddhist text emphasizing universal salvation.

Empress Jingu

A legendary ruler known for her military conquests in Korea.

Nara Period

(710–794) The first period with a permanent capital, heavily influenced by Chinese culture.

Admiral Matthew Perry

U.S. naval officer who forced Japan to open its ports to the West with the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854.

Mono no aware

The fleeting beauty of life, often associated with cherry blossoms.

Manga

Japanese comic books or graphic novels, covering various genres and styles.

Taiko

A traditional drumming performance often associated with festivals and cultural events in Japan.

Sumi-e/Suibokuga

A traditional Japanese ink wash painting style.

Chonin

The urban merchant and artisan class that became influential during the Edo period.

Daimyo

Powerful feudal lords who controlled large domains during Japan's history.

Bushido

The code of conduct for samurai, emphasizing loyalty, honor, and discipline.