History of Japan I

This course aims to explore Japanese history while encouraging students to reflect on what it truly means to study history. In modern society, science and religion are often discussed as opposing forces. In Japanese history, however, Western religion and Western science were introduced at nearly the same time, creating a distinctive historical context. The sixteenth century marked a major turning point in Japanese history. After a prolonged period of civil war, Japan was unified under the leadership of Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, bringing political stability to the country. In this relatively peaceful environment, Japan came into contact with Western civilization through Portuguese traders and Catholic missionaries. As a result, Japan acquired Western technology, science, art, and craftsmanship, and interest in Christianity spread. This process of transformation, however, was interrupted when Toyotomi Hideyoshi prohibited Christianity. In this course, students examine how religious traditions—including Shinto, Buddhism, and Christianity—were received and transformed within Japanese society, education, and approaches to science. At the same time, the course emphasizes that interpretations of historical events can vary significantly depending on cultural background and personal experience. By engaging with diverse perspectives through discussion and collaborative learning, students are encouraged to question assumptions they may have previously taken for granted and develop a deeper understanding of others. Rather than focusing on memorization, the course aims to cultivate historical thinking skills—including the critical analysis of historical documents and the ability to synthesize information from multiple sources—as well as the ability to express and present ideas clearly and logically in discussions, presentations, and written work, with care and respect for differing viewpoints.

This course is conducted entirely in English. It explores lesser-known aspects of Japanese history by focusing on the relationship between science and religion in Japan. In Western history, the pursuit of natural science—aimed at understanding the structure and principles of the universe—was a major driving force behind scientific development. Japan, however, followed a different historical trajectory. Scientific knowledge was introduced to Japan primarily through European Christians. Rather than engaging in a debate between religion and science, this course emphasizes historical facts and contexts. A combination of illustrated and written reference materials is used to enhance students’ interest and deepen their understanding. Note: The seventh and eighth weeks of the Spring Semester will be conducted as a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program between Shibaura Institute of Technology and Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember.

1. Students can recall and explain the characteristics of some religious traditions in Japan, and how they were transformed in the modern period in the context of their encounter with the West.
2. Students can analyse the different cultures, belief systems, and intellectual traditions that played important roles in Japanese history.
3. Students can critically analyse course materials and other historical documents, and to synthesise information from various sources.
4. Students can express and present their ideas and opinions clearly and logically, in formats such as group discussions, student presentations, and writing assignments on historical and cultural topics.

In order to pass this course, students need to earn at least 60% of the total course score; attendance alone does not guarantee a passing grade.
The final grade is calculated as follows:
1. Assignments and participation in class-activities: 40%
2. Midterm Examination: 30%
3. Final Examination: 30%
Regular attendance, active participation, timely submission of assignments, and satisfactory performance in both examinations are required to achieve a passing grade.

English

Recommended: A History of Japan: Revised Edition
ISBN-10: ‎ 080482097X
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0804820974

Please note that this course is designed for those whose English language proficiency is between CEFR B2 and C2 levels.

• Office hours: Friday between 12:30 and 13:20 in the lecturer’s office ＆ by appointment
• Contact e-mail address: zam08580@shibaura-it.ac.jp

Regionally-oriented course

• Course that cultivates an ability for utilizing knowledge

Most classes are interactive

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• 16.PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS
• 17.PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE GOALS