5.1 Flashcards
What were the four largest islands on Japan?
Honshu, Shikoku, Hokkaido, Kyushu
What percentage of Japanese land can be farmed?
15%
What geographical features allowed japan to develop unique religion, arts, and social structure?
The surrounding areas
Japan’s traditional religion that is still practiced today is called Shintoism. What is the direct English translation of “Shintoism”?
The way the gods
In Shintoism, what is the main cause of bad things happening?
Evil spirits
According to the Shinto creation myth, what created the islands of Japan?
The spear of the Japanese creation gods Inzanami and Izanagi.
In the 12th century, clan leaders “called on” men from Japan’s lower social ranks to help them protect their lands and enforce the laws. What did these men later come to be known as?
Samurai
What is the name of the Japanese Sun goddess that the Yamato cheifs claimed they were descended from?_
Amaterasu
Where did Prince Shotoku send officials to study Buddhism, art, medicine and philosophy?
China
What is the ancient capital of Heian-Kyo known as today?
Kyoto
How could one tell a noble’s social position from his home?
The closer it was to the royal palace, the higher the owner’s social status.
What activities took place in the imperial court?
Fine arts and learning
What type of temples did Shotoku have built around Japan?
Buddhist
Who tended to do the “true” ruling in ancient Japan?
The emperor’s father or father in law
What was the principle job of the emperor in ancient Japan?
To perform rituals
