Introduction to Japanese History & Culture

This Japanese course begins with a historical overview of Japan's ancestry and geography. You'll journey from prehistoric Japan, through the Imperial court and medieval Shoguns, to the Meiji and modern periods.

You'll learn about Japanese culture through the county's religions and philosophies. We'll look at Japanese history with an exciting exploration of the feudal era of Japan and the rise of the samurai class and ninjas. You'll also discover the roles that women in Japan have held during its history. In this, you'll explore some of the best-known female roles, including those of geishas and samurai.

Delve further into Japanese culture as you discover unique traditional arts. You'll explore Japanese painting, music, performance, tea ceremonies, flower arranging, and writing. You'll examine major Japanese literature from the classical to pre- and post-war periods. This Japanese history and culture course also explores architectural development and Japan's unique gardening style.

Explore Japan's distinct cultural offerings, including manga, anime, cinema and kawaii culture. We'll also delve into the daily life philosophies woven into Japanese societies.

By studying this course, you will learn the following:

• Historical periods and important figures of Japan
• Japan's main religions
• Samurai and how ninjas came to be
• The women of ancient Japan
• The literature and art of ancient Japan
• Traditional Japanese arts
• The importance of aesthetics in Japanese culture
• Manga, anime, and kawaii culture
• Ways of Japanese living, such as Ikigai, Kaizen and Kintsugi.

This Japanese course will benefit those interested in history, culture, the arts, and Japan. You'll gain great insight into this extraordinary country, from its beginnings to its modern-day culture.