Myths and mysteries, pre-history to 500AD; Chinese shadows, 500-800; the world of the Shining Prince, 800-1185; shoguns and samurai, 1185-1543; the Christian century, 1543-1639; the closed country, 1639-1853; revolution and modernization, 1853-1912; through the dark valley, 1912- 45; reform, recovery and resurgence, 1945-73; internationalization and identity, 1973-1990s, the Japanese language and Japanese names; Buddhism; national holidays and local festivals; food and drink; Chronicle of major events; Emperors and empresses; Prime Ministers; further reading and reference; regions of Japan; historical gazetteer.
