Handensei

Definition

Handensei refers to the concept of 'change of the way of governance' and it signifies the transition in administrative practices and power dynamics during Japan's Nara period. This period marked a significant shift towards a more centralized government structure, inspired by Chinese models, that laid the groundwork for the imperial capital's establishment and development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Handensei reflects the Nara period's efforts to implement a more systematic governance approach modeled after Tang Dynasty China.
2. This concept played a crucial role in the development of the Ritsuryō system, which organized state bureaucracy and administration.
3. The establishment of the Nara capital was directly linked to handensei as it provided a centralized location for political power and decision-making.
4. Handensei contributed to the unification of various clans under imperial rule, strengthening the emperor's authority across Japan.
5. The emphasis on centralized governance during this time laid the foundation for future dynastic control and imperial administration in Japan.

Review Questions

• How did handensei influence the political structure of Japan during the Nara period?
  • Handensei significantly influenced Japan's political structure by promoting a centralized form of governance modeled after Chinese systems. This shift allowed for the consolidation of power under the emperor, which was crucial for implementing reforms like the Taika Reforms. As local clans began to align with imperial authority, it strengthened the role of the emperor and facilitated a more uniform administrative approach across the newly established Nara capital.
• In what ways did handensei impact the development of the Ritsuryō system during the Nara period?
  • Handensei directly impacted the development of the Ritsuryō system by emphasizing organized governance that was essential for effective rule. The Ritsuryō system created a structured legal framework that regulated various aspects of society, such as land ownership and taxation. Through handensei, these regulations were implemented uniformly across Japan, furthering central authority and enhancing governmental control over local regions.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of handensei on Japan’s governance model beyond the Nara period.
  • The long-term effects of handensei on Japan’s governance model can be seen in how it established patterns for centralized authority that persisted well beyond the Nara period. The principles of strong imperial control initiated during this time laid foundational governance structures that influenced subsequent periods, such as the Heian and Kamakura eras. By solidifying the emperor's position and promoting bureaucratic systems, handensei shaped not just immediate political landscapes but also set a precedent for future dynasties and administrative practices in Japan.

Related terms

Taika Reforms:

A series of governmental changes that took place in 645 AD aimed at centralizing power and creating a more structured imperial administration.

Ritsuryō System: A legal system developed during the Nara period that established regulations for governance, including taxation, land ownership, and social hierarchy.

Nara Capital: The first permanent capital of Japan, established in 710 AD, which became a center for politics, culture, and religion during the Nara period.