by Giovanni Di Lago

Created on: May 03, 2008

Japan: From Ancient Isolation to Modern Integration

A Summary of Japanese History

During the time in which our world was being constantly explored by fabled men and their sailing crews, Japan remained for the most part an unseen gem. The society of this period was a closed one, and few "gaijin" (foreigners) dared to venture onto the shores of Nihon for fear of their very lives. But on one fateful afternoon in 1853, Commodore Perry's massive black ships appeared off the Japanese coast at Shimoda, just south of what is present-day Tokyo - soon to end more than 250 years of isolation... and the rest, as they say, is history.

Japan to 1960

Modern centuries saw the birth of a Japan which grew, albeit slowly, into a recognized nation. With under 15% of its land suited for agriculture, the Japanese people found their only salvation in a collective effort to survive as a people. A national character was shaped by this adversity, which would later manifest itself in the form of great industrial strength, thanks in no small measure to the contributions of the Allied forces nations which had defeated them in the Second World War.

Modern Japanese Life

Japan today continues to become more Westernized, for both better and worse; in fact, sometimes it's difficult to see where the influence on Western life leaves off at times, especially with the younger Japanese. But an emphasis on "people", both its own and those who seek to understand them, continues to be a distinguishing characteristic of their culture. From the rampant politeness to a very serious focus on world peace, Japan has long since atoned for any of her wartime atrocities to become one of the leading world nations in advocating goodwill between cultures.

The Art of Being Misunderstood

Adapting yourself from centuries of tradition is no easy task. With most of our ways of life derived from European values, it can be difficult to comprehend such a totally different culture that misunderstandings will creep up from time to time.

Since there are so many books readily available for those interested in knowing more about Japanese ways, we will spare you a point-by-point synopsis. However, there is one aspect of Japanese culture that bears mentioning here - their desire to understand the world around them, and to be understood in turn.

Coming from a culture that had traditionally been closed to all outsiders until relatively modern times, the Japanese have shown a remarkable gift for opening themselves to new experiences and

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