Myths and mysteries, prehistory to AD 500
Chinese shadows, 500-800
The world of the shining prince, 800-1185
Shoguns and samurai, 1185-1543
The Christian century, 1543-1639
The closed country, 1639-1853
Revolution and modernisation, 1853-1912
Through the dark valley, 1912-1945
Reform, recovery and resurgence, 1945-1973
Internationalisation and identity, 1973-2001.