Examining the Impact of Japan's Historical Isolation on Culture

Japan is a country with an incredibly rich culture, being influenced by a variety of different factors throughout its long history. One of the most notable influences on Japan's culture is the result of its historical isolation. By many accounts, this isolation led to the development of many unique aspects of Japan culture. But how did this period of isolation shape Japanese culture, and what lasting effects can still be felt?

The period of historical isolation in Japan lasted from around 1603 to 1854. This isolation was largely a result of the Edo government making any interaction with foreign countries illegal. The philosophy behind this was the idea that a person doesn't need to come in contact with other cultures in order to live a fulfilled life. This was a Reclusion Policy that was enacted in order to stifle any foreign influence from cultures seen as being potentially dangerous or antithetical to Japanese culture and beliefs.
Redd F @ Unsplash

The most obvious results of this period of isolation can be seen in the forms of art and protocol that originated in the heyday of the Shogunate. These forms of art, such as the Yōga painting style, Ukiyo-e woodprints, traditional theater styles, and the intricate etiquette of tea ceremony, are all uniquely Japanese and are still studied and emulated today.

Perhaps even more significant is the lasting effect that this period of Japan's seclusion has had on its culture as a whole. In contrast to many other countries which tend to draw heavily upon diverse cultures, Japan has maintained a long tradition of being largely self-contained and self-reliant. This can be seen in the deep respect for tradition, and the almost reverence for the past, that still permeates much of Japan's present day cultural identity. For example, the traditional elevation of family values, the importance of honoring ancestors, and the overall emphasis on respecting elders are all things which can still be experienced in Japan.

On the other hand, the fact that foreign interactions were so heavily restricted during the Edo period meant that many aspects of Japan's culture fell behind the times, particularly in the fields of science and technology. The country's strict adherence to its seclusionist stance meant that it was unable to open itself up to new knowledge, and this led to a period of stagnancy that existed up until the Meiji Restoration.

In recent years, Japan has opened itself to more foreign influences, yet still tends to maintain an identity that is distinct from the rest of the world. It is clear that Japan's period of historical isolation played a major role in defining the culture and the identity of this fascinating country, and its effects can still be seen to this day.
Aogu Fujihashi @ Unsplash