An Archaeological History of Japan, 30,000 B.C. to A.D. 700

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Challenging the belief in a continuous Japanese culture spanning over 30,000 years, this work critically analyzes archaeological evidence and its interpretations. It explores the concept of "Japanese-ness" through various material items, including Zen Buddhist gardens and Jomon clay figurines, questioning the assumptions underlying the notion of an unbroken cultural lineage. By examining these artifacts and their historical context, the book provides a fresh perspective on Japan's cultural evolution.