early capital of japan crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "early capital of japan", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find accurate answers organized by letter count to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "early capital of japan crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NARA: Nara was Japan's first permanent capital, established in 710 AD, marking the beginning of the Nara period.
5 Letters
HEIAN: Heian-kyo (modern Kyoto) became the capital in 794 AD, initiating the Heian period and serving as an early capital for over a millennium.
More About "early capital of japan crossword clue"
The history of Japan's early capitals is rich and fascinating, reflecting shifts in political power, religious influence, and cultural development. Prior to the establishment of permanent capitals, the imperial court often moved with each new emperor. This tradition changed dramatically with the founding of Nara.
Nara, established in 710 AD as Heijo-kyo, was Japan's first truly permanent capital. It was modeled after the Tang dynasty Chinese capital of Chang'an and became a center for Buddhist culture, boasting grand temples like Todai-ji, home to a colossal bronze Buddha statue. However, the growing influence of Buddhist clergy in political affairs led to the imperial court seeking a new home.
This desire for a fresh start led to the construction of Heian-kyo, modern-day Kyoto, in 794 AD. Heian-kyo remained the imperial capital for over a thousand years, from the start of the Heian period until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Both Nara and Heian represent pivotal eras in Japanese history, with distinct architectural styles, literary achievements, and political structures that continue to fascinate historians and crossword enthusiasts alike.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Historical Periods: Clues like "early capital" or "ancient city" often point to specific historical periods or well-known historical sites. Think about the common names associated with those eras.
- Check Letter Count First: If you have some letters filled in or know the exact length, always cross-reference it with possible answers. This can quickly eliminate many options. For "early capital of Japan," knowing if it's 4 or 5 letters can guide you directly to NARA or HEIAN.
- Look for Alternative Names: Sometimes, historical places have multiple names or spellings (e.g., Heian-kyo for Kyoto). Keep these in mind as potential answers.
- Think Geographically: Even if a clue is historical, consider the geographical region it points to. Familiarity with world capitals and significant cities can be a huge advantage.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Japan's first permanent capital?
Nara was Japan's first permanent capital, established in 710 AD. It was the political and cultural center during the Nara Period.
How long was Heian-kyo (Kyoto) the capital of Japan?
Heian-kyo, now known as Kyoto, served as the imperial capital for over a thousand years, from 794 AD until the Meiji Restoration in 1868 when the capital was moved to Tokyo.
Why did Japan move its capital so many times in early history?
Early capital moves were often influenced by a belief that the death of an emperor polluted the capital, necessitating a new location. Another significant factor was the desire to escape the growing political influence of powerful Buddhist monasteries, as was the case with the move from Nara to Heian-kyo.