Since the 7th century, Japan has been actively incorporating excellent culture from the continent, but when the relationship between Japan and the continent changes significantly from the latter half of the 9th century, it suits the climate and tastes of Japan, especially in aristocratic society. Elegant and blessed national culture Was born.
Development of kana characters and Kokin Wakashū
Kokufu Bunka Symbolizes the development of kana characters.
Hiragana and Katakana Became widely used during this period, and it became possible to vividly convey the feelings and sensations peculiar to Japan Japanese literature . Has evolved.
First Waka Became popular, 905 The first Chokusen Wakashū by Ki no Tsurayuki and others [ Kokin Wakashū ] Has appeared. The waka poems posted here have long been a model of waka poems with a delicate and skillful singing style. ] Is called.
Kokin Wakashū Since then, the beginning of the Kamakura period [ Shin Kokin Wakashū ], The Chokusen Wakashū has been edited eight times, and these are collectively referred to as [ Yashiroshu . ] Is called.
Kana characters were not officially used, but they became widely used in daily life, and following the excellent works of Kana literature such as [Taketori Monogatari] and [Ise Monogatari], Murasaki Shikibu / strong> [ Genji Monogatari ] Etc. were born.
Also, Sei Shonagon Wrote the court life experience in an essay style [ Pillow grass ] Is positioned as the best masterpiece in Japanese literature along with the Genji story. * I'm going to test ~
The beginning of the kana diary is Ki no Tsurayuki Although it is said to be [Tosa Diary], many of them are in the hands of women who serve the court, and they contain delicate emotions.
These kana literature was created by the talented women who the aristocrats put into the back palace of the emperor.
The spread of Pure Land Buddhism
Buddhism during the customs politics was Tendai / Mantra The two denominations of the above are overwhelmingly powerful and have been associated with aristocrats seeking worldly interests through prayer. On the other hand, Shinbutsu-shugo is also progressing, connecting Buddha and the gods peculiar to Japan Honji Suijaku theory * Was also born.
In addition, the spiritual belief that tries to escape from disasters such as plague and hunger by worshiping grudges and epidemic gods spreads, and Goryo-e * Is now being used.
Along with the belief in seeking profits in this world, the Pure Land Buddhism, which tries to escape from the anxieties of this world, has become popular.
Pure Land Buddhism is Amida Buddha Believe in Gorgeous Jodo in the afterlife However, it is a teaching that hopes that enlightenment will be gained there and that the pain will disappear. At the beginning, Kuya preached this in the city of Kyoto, and Genshin wrote a collection of Ojou [ Nembutsu Ojou . ], The Pure Land Buddhism spread to the common people, mainly aristocrats.
And Mappo Thought * It was further strengthened.
Kokufu Bunka Arts and Crafts
Kokufu culture has had a great influence on architecture and works of art.
In the field of architecture, aristocratic houses are white wood making / cypress bark . Shinden-zukuri It became a unique construction method in Japan called. Fusuma and folding screen inside the building Yamato-e with Japanese style as the theme instead of Kara-e Is now written.
The furnishings in the mansion are also lacquer work . The technique of is often used, adding a gorgeous yet calm atmosphere. The Japanese style, which represents a graceful line, has replaced the Kara style, and a unique culture has been born in the field of calligraphy.
With the birth of the Pure Land Buddhism, many related buildings and works of art were created, and Hojoji was built by Fujiwara no Michinaga. Is a large temple centered on Amidado, and Byodoin Phoenix Hall, where Byodo was built, is famous as a representative building of Amidado.
Aristocratic life
The aristocratic life lived on tatami mats in an open Shinden-zukuri building.
The diet was relatively simple, and due to the influence of Buddhism, I didn't eat much meat, and I used to eat twice a day as a standard.
Men were dressed as adults between the ages of 10 and 15, women were treated as adults with a mogi ceremony, and men got official positions and served in the imperial court. Men's formal wear is sokutai So, for everyday wear, ikan Wearing a wife costume (Junihitoe) Was common. These outfits are graceful Japanese-style arrangements of Kara-style outfits.
Heian aristocracy is also a very lucky person, and he tried to avoid disasters and invite good fortune by praying for his fate and good and bad. Therefore, I lived a life based on good and bad in my daily life, and many restrictions were set.
Even though I have lived a life that invites good fortune, I am very disappointed if good things do not happen in this world, and it is said that this is the reason why the Pure Land Buddhism that relies on the next world spread to aristocrats.