Images

The Agata were tribal units under the reign of the Yamato court (c. 300-650 CE), which held sway over western Japan. Particularly in the Nara and Kyoto areas, the agata played important political and ceremonial roles. The name of the Agata...

The Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan dates from the late-Heian period, and it served as the residence of the influential minister Fujiwara no Michinaga (966-1028 CE). It was originally built in 998 CE. The most famous portion of the temple is...

The Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan dates from the late-Heian period. The most famous portion of the temple is the "Phoenix Hall," which is a National Treasure and appears on the Japanese 10 yen coin.

The Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan dates from the late-Heian period, and it served as the residence of the influential minister Fujiwara no Michinaga (966-1028 CE). It was originally built in 998 CE. The most famous portion of the temple is...

This is an ancient bell at the Byodoin Temple in Uji, Japan, which is located not too far from the city of Kyoto.

An artist's impression of the Chinese warlord Dong Zhuo (mounted) and his general Lu Bu from the Three Kingdoms period at the end of the 2nd century CE. (From the PC game Total War: Three Kingdoms by the Creative Assembly)

Lion statue from the Monumental Gate of Bucaleon Palace. Culture: Byzantine, Period: Early Byzantine, Findspot: Catladikapi, Istanbul, Materials: Marble. (Istanbul Archaeological Museum)

This is one of two entrances to the Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, Japan, which are marked by large wooden torii gates. At Shinto shrines in Japan, the torii demarcates the dividing line between profane and sacred spaces. At the Meiji Jingu...

The Toji Temple Complex is a World Heritage Site located in Kyoto, Japan. With a series of structures and a fine, tall wooden pagoda, and beautiful gardens, Toji remains a popular temple to visit in Kyoto. The temple was first built between...

The Toji temple in Kyoto, Japan was first built between 794-796 CE. The temple complex contains a five-story pagoda, which stands 54.8 m (180 ft) high. It is the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan.