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Woodblock drawing of the Onin War of 1467-1477

Ōnin War – The Birth of Japan’s Sengoku (Warring States) Era

December 11, 2023

The Ōnin War (1467-1477), also known as Ōnin-Bunmei war, gave rise to Japan’s Sengoku (Warring States) period. It started with a shogunate succession dispute and escalated into a fierce conflict between the Eastern and Western Armies. Despite its intensity, the war ended without a clear victor. The war led to the decline of the shogunate and the rise of powerful daimyo, ushering in an era of widespread warfare and social transformation in the history of Japan.

Recreated scene of the Sekigahara Battlefield

Battle of Sekigahara – The Fight for Japan’s Unification

December 10, 2023

The Battle of Sekigahara was a defining moment in Japanese history in 1600. This battle not only decided the political fate of Japan but also marked the beginning of the Tokugawa Shogunate, a period that significantly influenced the country’s future. Explore the events leading up to the battle, the intense and strategic combat that ensued, and the profound changes that followed.

Second Mongol Invasion of Japan – Battle of Kōan

December 10, 2023

During the late 13th century, Kublai Khan, the leader of the Mongol Empire, launched two invasions against Japan. The first invasion occurred in 1274, while the second invasion, also known as the Battle of Kōan, happened in 1281. This war was a significant encounter between the Mongol Empire and feudal Japan. Samurai warriors banded together to fight off the foreign Mongol forces, marking one of the few failures of the dominant Mongol Empire.

A boat full of Samurai overlooking the Mongols fleet

First Mongol Invasion of Japan – Battle of Bun’ei

December 9, 2023

In the late 13th century, the Mongol’s first invasion of Japan was critical in medieval Japanese history. Initiated by Kublai Khan’s expansive Mongol Empire, the invasion represented a clash of mighty forces and contrasting cultures. The battles, characterized by intense combat and strategic prowess, unfolded primarily in Kyushu, testing the resilience of the Japanese samurai. The aftermath of this conflict left a lasting impact on Japan, shaping its military strategies and cultural identity. It also set the stage for future encounters between these historical powers.

Actors playing the role of Abe Sadato, Minamoto no Yoshiie, and Abe Munetō

Zenkunen no Eki – Former Nine Years’ War of Samurai in Heian Era

December 9, 2023

The Former Nine Years’ War (Zen Kunen no Eki or Zenkunen War) was a defining conflict in Japan’s late Heian period. It unfolded from 1051 to 1062 in the Mutsu Province, part of the Tohoku region. Learn about the events leading up to the conflict, the critical battles fought, and the impact on Japan’s feudal history. The Zenkunen War highlights the struggle between the central government and the regional Abe clan, underscoring the shifting power dynamics in medieval Japan.

Woodblock print of Samurai fighting Taira no Masakado

Tengyō no Ran – The Rebellion of Taira no Masakado

December 8, 2023

In 939, during the Heian period of Japan, a significant rebellion known as the Tengyō no Ran erupted. It was led by Taira no Masakado, a provincial noble from the Taira Clan. He boldly claimed the title of “New Emperor” and challenged the central government’s authority. This rebellion was a crucial moment in Japanese history. It questioned the power of the imperial court in Kyōto and set the stage for future changes in the country’s political landscape. Discover the events leading up to the rebellion, the forces involved, the fierce battle, and the consequences of Masakado’s audacious uprising.

A busy Ningyocho Street in Tokyo during Meiji Era

Meiji Period – Westernization of Japan and the Samurai Legacy

December 4, 2023

In the Meiji Period (1868-1912), Japan transformed from a secluded, feudal society into an industrialized nation. The decline of the Edo Period’s Tokugawa shogunate and the resurgence of imperial power under Emperor Meiji marked the dawn of this era. Through determined reforms and adoption of Western practices, Japan redefined its societal structure, military, and culture. This period also saw the end of the samurai class.

Samurai holding up his sword in the street

Introduction to the Samurai – Japan’s Legendary Warriors

December 4, 2023

The samurai were disciplined and strong, representing noble ideals. From their military prowess to their unwavering dedication, they embodied the unbeatable spirit of feudal Japan. Their history and culture spanned over a thousand years and continue to influence the modern world we now live in. Read on to explore the rise and power of the samurai, their code of conduct, and the arts and culture that defined their way of life.

A group playing a game of kemari in Heian Period

Heian Period – The Rise of the Samurai Class

December 4, 2023

The Heian period, from 794 to 1185, is a captivating chapter in Japanese history. It was an era with rich culture and the period when samurai class emerged as guardians and military leaders. Read on to learn more about this period and the influencing factors leading to the rise of the samurai class.