- During the Jomon period, the Japanese people used earthenware to create pots, bowls, and other containers for food and water. These were decorated with unique patterns and designs, such as ropes, dots, and curves.
- During the Yayoi period, the Japanese people started growing rice in paddies, which allowed them to produce more food than hunting and gathering. They also used bronze and iron tools to farm and manufacture goods.
- During the Kofun period, the Japanese people built large tombs for their rulers and decorated them with ornate swords, jewelry, and pottery. They also created myths and legends about gods and goddesses, such as Amaterasu, the sun goddess, and Susano-o, the storm god.
- During the Nara period, the Japanese people established a Chinese-style imperial court, which governed and controlled the country's affairs. They also built large temples, such as the Todai-ji temple, which housed a 15-meter tall bronze statue of Buddha.
- During the Heian period, the Japanese people developed a sophisticated aristocratic culture, which emphasized etiquette, beauty, and elegance. They wrote poems, stories, and essays in Japanese using Chinese characters, known as kanji, and created a unique writing system, known as hiragana, which allowed them to write in their own language.