In 660, B.C., Japan's first emperor, Jimmu, supposedly ascended the throne. He was believed to be an ancestor of the god and goddess who created Japan. Click here to find out how Japan was created

In 300 A.D., the rule of the Yamato family had begun.Yamato Takeru, a Japanese folk hero, expanded the territory of the ruling Yamato Clan.

From 538-552, Buddhism was introduced to Japan by visiting Koreans. Click here to find out how Buddhism was introduced and spread.

In 645, the Fujiwara clan became powerful at court.

In 702, Japan's first constitution was adopted.

In 1274, Kublai Khan made his first invasion of Japan. It failed.

In 1281, Kublai Khan made his second invasion of Japan. It failed also. Click here to find out about Kublai Khan and his invasions.

In 1543, the first Portuguese ship was shipwrecked on the shore of Japan. The Japanese learned about muskets and guns from the Portuguese.

In 1585, Hideyoshi gained control of the country. Click here to find out about Hideyoshi.

In 1853, Matthew Perry's ships reached Japan. Click here to find out about Perry.