Early History of Tokyo dates back to 30,000 B.C. This is substantiated by archaeological discoveries in regions around Tokyo. The earliest period in Tokyo history is known as the Jomon Period, extending upto 300 B.C. During this time, the local people were hunters, fishermen and gatherers. Written records have not been discovered belonging to this era in Tokyo.
Yayoi period of early Tokyo History
In the Yayoi period from 300 BC to 300AD people around Tokyo began a settled lifestyle with the introduction of agriculture. Rice was cultivated for the first time, and the local inhabitants also learnt the use of iron. Yayoi is a particular style of pottery that developed during this time. Hence the name of this period.
Kofun and Yamato periods of early Tokyo History
|
The period from 300AD to 538AD is called the Kofun period in ancient history of Tokyo. People started inhabiting the fertile Kinai plain permanently. With settlement, the need for political administration arose.
Recorded history of Tokyo can be traced back to 6th century B.C. when Japanese inhabitants adopted Buddhism as their religion. During the same period they imbibed art, architecture and calligraphy from China. Buddhism was promoted by the ruling class. Prince Shotoku played a significant role in promoting Chinese ideas for his people. He was also credited for scripting the Constitution of Seventeen Articles, and the theories of Confucius and Taoism.
Fujiwara Clan
Nakatomi no Kamatari in 645 AD established the Fujiwara clan that ruled Japan till the 11th century when the warriors or samurai grew powerful. With the decline of the Fujiwaras, the early history of Tokyo gave way to the feudal period.
|
