The Heian period, from approximately 794 to 1185 AD, was an impressive era in Japanese history. Considered the classical age of Japan, it was a time of wealth and refinement. Peace and prosperity, high culture, powerful clans, new ideas, and relative independence from foreign influence marked this period. The move to the capital Heian-kyō (modern Kyoto) was motivated largely by Emperor Kammu's desire to reduce the considerable influence exerted by the monasteries of Heijō-kyō (modern Nara). Nara was modeled after the Tang capital of China, and its religion was based on their type of Buddhism. Previously, imperial support for Buddhism had politicized the clergy, resulting in power and corruption within its leadership. However, after Emperor Kammu and his successor Daigo, the church did not have the major influence on government during the Heian period. The Fujiwara clan rose to power after these emperors and dominated the Japanese government between 794 and 1160. Their growing influence was due to the continued intermarriage of female members of the clan with the emperors. They would then rule for the descendants of these unions when they ascended the throne. The Fujiwara manipulated the rulers and were the real decision makers. With all power in the hands of the Fujiwara clans, the Heian was a time of relative peace. Birth, rank, and breeding mattered everything, and wealth and power were passed down from generation to generation. In addition to controlling politics, the wealthy Fujiwara greatly influenced Japanese culture with their love of style. Fashionable clothing at that time consisted of layer upon layer of expensive silks, with women sometimes wearing up to 40 layers of clothing. Multiple layers of expensive fabrics in the center of the paper......these teachings were only passed down orally from teacher to student, this form of Buddhism became very popular and a vital force in Japanese culture. It must be said, however, that despite the culture, peace and prosperity of the Heian capital and its immediate vicinity, the surrounding areas were not as wealthy or fortunate. The ruling aristocracy was a small minority; most Japanese inhabitants were largely illiterate and poor, vulnerable to crime and drought. They were largely ignored, except for tax purposes. The Heian period and its powerful ruling parties brought a new, higher level of culture and literacy than ever before seen in Japan. It showed the beginning of a Japanese identity that would become unique. However, it was also a time of indulgence and in many cases selfish pride. Works Cited History of World Societies