AD 1185-1333 Kamakura

During the Heian period (AD 794-1185) while the courtiers in the capital spent their time refining their elegant cultural pursuits, the warriors governing the provinces were growing in military prowess and political strength. In the mid-12th century, warriors of the Taira clan gained control of the court. In the civil wars of 1180-85 they were finally overthrown by the Minamoto clan, an enemy they had once ousted. Minamoto no Yoritomo established his own government at Kamakura in the east of Japan. Soon after Yoritomo’s death however, power was usurped by his wife’s family, the Hôjô, who then established themselves as imperial regents.

The ideal virtues of the Japanese warrior – strength, courage, loyalty and a willingness to die for honour – developed during this period. The ideal warrior, however, enjoyed a command of both martial and cultural arts, the first ensuring power and the second conferring legitimacy and prestige. Although the court maintained some cultural influence, society underwent a major change as power and wealth shifted from the aristocracy to the warrior class.

New forms of Buddhism appeared during the 12th and 13th centuries, and had appeal for the warrior class. The Heian-period focus on Amida developed into various sects of Pure Land Buddhism, concerned with rebirth in the western paradise. Zen Buddhism was also introduced by priests from China.