As well as the history of Asia and Europe, study of ancient and medieval Japan is based on written records, literature, sculptures, paintings, architecture, archaeological evidences, folklore and local traditions. These tangible remains of the mind, spirit and lifeways of past people are categorized into literature, history, and archaeology. Each in turn requires a different research strategy and deals with differing aspects of culture and society. However, compartmentalization and the huge volume of academic research in recent years have made it difficult to get a clear view of the whole picture. We hope to stimulate emergent research and new perspectives by removing barriers between different academic fields and to encourage exchanges between scholars in different subjects.
