Intro to Japan

Sinoification

the act of becoming more Chinese (eg. culturally)

Shintō　（神道）

indigenous animalistic folk religion worshiping nature

how was Shinto used to unite Japan

formed revered emperor system

Confucian impact on cultural norms

• stressed group identity

• family code

• idea of superiors

• military might (samurai)

• highlighting demureness

Samurai’s impact on cultural norms

• decline of women’s rights

• conflicted with merchant class

Japan’s national anthem name

Kimi-ga-yo (君が代)

How does kimi-ga-yo represent Japan’s shift towards democracy?

• Song originally meant to praise emperor; as language evolved (i.e 君 => you) represented populous as whole

• Melody originally created by British artist

Japan’s national flag name

Hi-no-maru （日の丸）