710 – 720s

Events in the 710s 2

• 538 – 710 Asuka period Buddhism, writing and the first Japanese state The Asuka period saw Buddhism introduced from Korea, along with Chinese writing, architecture and statecraft. Prince Shotoku promoted the new faith and a Chinese-style bureaucracy, and the Taika Reforms of 645 strengthened imperial power — transforming Japan into a centralised state.
• 710 – 794 Nara period First permanent capital; Kojiki and Nihon Shoki written Empress Genmei established Japan's first permanent capital at Heijo-kyo (Nara), modelled on the Tang Chinese capital. The great chronicles Kojiki (712) and Nihon Shoki (720) were compiled, codifying Japan's founding myths, and Buddhism flourished under imperial patronage — including the great Todai-ji temple and its colossal bronze Buddha.