ShintoismWhy did the early Japanese believe that nature was important?

Describe Shintoism

• Animism= Believed everything had a spirit

• Used kami for help• Kami=nature spirit• Worshipped at holy

places

Describe Shintoism

• Shinto= way of spirits• Love of nature• Influenced simplicity,

cleanliness, and good manners

How did Prince Shotoku reform Japan’s government?

• Created constitution for strong, central government

• Constitution=plan of government

• Emperor was all powerful

• Studied Chinese culture for model

Describe the Nara Period

• Nara-capital city• Large homes for rich• Chose officials from

powerful families• Received farm land

control in return• Buddhism became

popular religion

Let’s Review

• How did the Japanese show respect to the kami?• What does Shinto mean?• What was the goal of Shotoku’s constitution?• What was Nara?• Why did the emperor choose officials from powerful

families?