The Heian period was notable because although technological know-how remained indebted to China, decorative designs almost exclusively used Japanese motifs. Mirrors, for example, had first been imported from mainland Asia during the Yayoi era (300 BC-AD 300). In the following Kofun and Nara periods, this importation continued, and Chinese models were copied in Japan. New, native designs also began to appear and existed alongside the imported motifs.

Heian-period mirrors became completely Japanese in their ornamentation. Cranes now replaced mythological phoenixes, and the auspicious bush clover, cherry blossom and pine trees were used rather than Chinese plants and flowers.

This move towards a native Japanese style can also be seen in the architecture, sculpture, and swords of the Heian period. Although many of the basic principles and production methods had originally been learnt from Chinese men travelling to Japan, Japanese craftsmen increasingly developed them in new directions and incorporated native elements of structure and design.