Questions and Answers
What is the date of the Taika Reform?
645
What is another name for the Taika Reform?
Great Change
Land reform was based off of what system?
The Tang's 'Equal Field' system
What type of relationship did Japan begin with China?
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What acted as a vehicle for cultural borrowing in Japan?
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What was the general view of the elite about learning from China?
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What are Chinese characters in Japanese writing called?
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How many Kanji characters exist?
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What is the common form of the Japanese syllabary?
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What is the Japanese syllabary used for foreign terms?
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What are the two earliest books in Japan?
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What was Japan's first capital city?
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What were the dimensions of Nara?
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What does Tenno mean in Japanese?
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The bureaucratic system of Japan divided the country into ___ provinces.
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What was the legal system of Japan called?
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What was the Taiho Code based off of?
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Did the Japanese have a Civil Service exam?
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What was the basis of Japanese architecture?
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What food did Japan borrow from China?
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What is a tatami mat?
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What clothing style did the Kimono originate from?
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Study Notes
Taika Reform Overview
- The Taika Reform occurred in 645, marking a significant shifts in Japanese governance and society.
- Also known as the "Great Change," it initiated modernization and centralization of Japan's administrative structure.
Land Reform
- Land reform was inspired by the Tang Dynasty's "Equal Field" system, aimed at equitable distribution of land among citizens.
Cultural Exchange with China
- Japan began a cultural borrowing relationship during the Tang Dynasty, significantly influenced by Chinese culture.
- Buddhism served as a primary conduit for this cultural exchange, introducing new practices and philosophies.
Elite Consensus
- The Japanese elite reached a consensus on the importance of learning from Chinese civilization, viewing it as beneficial for their own development.
Japanese Writing Systems
- Kanji, derived from Chinese characters, comprises over 6000 characters utilized in Japanese writing.
- Hiragana serves as a common syllabary for the Japanese language.
- Katakana is employed mainly for writing foreign terms.
Early Japanese Literature
- Two of Japan's earliest texts are the "Kojiki" (Records of Ancient Matters) and "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan), which provide insights into ancient Japanese history and mythology.
Nara Period
- Nara, established as Japan's first capital from 710 to 784 AD, was modeled after Chang'an, the capital of the Tang Dynasty.
- The size of Nara was 2.5 by 3 miles, approximately half the size of Chang'an.
Governance and Legal System
- The emperor of Japan held the title Tenno, meaning "Heavenly Emperor."
- Japan organized its bureaucracy into 66 provinces, which were further divided into prefectures, counties, and villages.
- The Taiho Code, established in 702, served as the legal foundation, influenced by the Tang Code.
Civil Service Examination
- Japan did not implement a Civil Service exam system, contrasting with practices in China.
Architectural Influence
- Japanese interior and exterior design were largely influenced by Tang architectural styles.
Culinary Borrowing
- Japan adopted various foods from Chinese cuisine, including tofu.
Traditional Japanese Culture
- Tatami mats are traditional rush-covered straw mats used for flooring in Japanese homes.
- The kimono has its origins in "Hanfu," traditional Chinese clothing, reflecting the deep cultural ties between China and Japan.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the Taika Reform with these flashcards. Cover essential dates, concepts, and the influences of the Tang Dynasty on Japan. Perfect for students studying Japanese history and the significant changes that occurred during this period.
