Timeline of Eras & Yokai Context
The earliest era of Japanese history, spanning from the Jomon period to the end of the Nara period. This time is characterized by the formation of the Yamato state, the introduction of Buddhism, and the compilation of Japan's earliest histories and mythologies.
A long period of peace and cultural flourishing centered in Heian-kyo (Kyoto). The imperial court reached its peak of refinement, producing world-renowned literature like 'The Tale of Genji'.
The beginning of military rule (Shogunate). Power shifted from the elegant court in Kyoto to the warrior class in Kamakura.
A period of cultural fusion between samurai and court nobility, but ended in the chaotic Sengoku (Warring States) period.
The 'Age of Warring States' - a century and a half of near-constant military conflict between regional warlords (daimyo) vying for control of Japan. Famous warriors like Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu emerged during this era.
Over 250 years of peace under the Tokugawa shogunate. Japan was closed to the outside world, allowing a unique urban culture to flourish in Edo (Tokyo).
The era of 'Enlightened Rule' that transformed Japan from a feudal society into a modern industrial nation. The Emperor was restored to power, and Japan rapidly adopted Western technology, government, and culture.
The longest reign of any Japanese emperor, spanning militarism, World War II, devastating defeat, and miraculous economic recovery. Japan transformed from an empire to a pacifist democracy and global economic power.
The contemporary era spanning the Heisei (1989-2019) and Reiwa (2019-present) periods. Characterized by economic stagnation ('Lost Decades'), technological innovation, natural disasters, and the globalization of Japanese pop culture.
For yokai whose origins are lost to time, mythological rather than historical, or whose first appearance cannot be dated to a specific era.
