Some developments emerged over a period of years, and precise dates for events before A.D. 600 have not been determined. Notice how long the prehistorical era was compared to other periods. Rice cultivation, metalworking, and the potter's wheel are introduced from China and Korea. Yamato clan rulers, claiming descent from Amaterasu Omikami, begin the imperial dynasty that continues to occupy the throne today.
Japan adopts Chinese written characters.
He seeks centralization of government and a bureaucracy of merit. He also calls for reverence for Buddhism and the Confucian virtues. New aristocratic families are created. Especially powerful is that of Fujiwara no Kamatari, who helped push the reforms. Though emperors are Shinto chiefs, they patronize Buddhism in the belief that its teachings will bring about a peaceful society and protect the state.