Timeline of Japanese history


This is a timeline of Japanese history, comprising important legal, territorial and cultural changes and political events in Japan and its predecessor states. To read about the background to these events, see History of Japan. See also the list of Emperors of Japan and Prime Ministers of Japan and the list of years in Japan.

14,000 BC

7th century BC

4th century BC

1st century

2nd century

3rd century

4th century

5th century

Very little is known about the 5th century in Japan. The period was definitely marked by volatile inter-state warfare, complex alliances, submissions and betrayals. Some of the more constant Yamato polity partners were Baekje and Gaya confederacy, while enemies included Goguryeo, Silla and various Chinese groups. All of the records of the era either did not survive or are contentious.
YearDateEvent
404Goguryeo–Wa conflicts between Wa, Baekje, and Gaya against Goguryeo and Silla
413King of Wa sends 1st recorded tribute to the Jin.
430Yamato polity become a regional power after subjugating several states in West Japan. Details are subject to Mimana controversy.
461Chronology of the Japanese historical records become consistent. All dates before this entry are reconstructed with foreign or archaeological data.
461Baekje sends an embassy to Japan, as confirmed by both Japanese and Korean records.

6th century

7th century

8th century

9th century

10th century

11th century

12th century

13th century

14th century

15th century

16th century

17th century

18th century

19th century

20th century

21st century