• Introduction to Medieval Japan: 1185-1600 [Outline Reading]
Unit for teachers highlighting the key points for teaching about Japan's medieval period (1185-1600).

• The Age of the Samurai (1185-1868) [Reading]
An introductory outline providing a two-page overview of the period 1185-1868. Discussion questions included.

• Kublai Khan's Lost Fleet Found in Japan [Reading]
An article from The New York Times on the recovery of treasures from the Mongol expeditions that failed to conquer Japan in 1274 and 1281. Includes questions for further discussion and research.

• The Tale of the Heike [Reading]
Introduction to and excerpts from The Tale of Heike, a war tale from the twelfth century. With discussion questions.

• Guide to Essays in Idleness [Reading]
A one-page historical introduction to Essays in Idleness, a literary work of the period that provides students with a glimpse of the social upheaval accompanying the transition from the aristocratic culture of the Heian court to the samurai-dominated culture and society of medieval Japan.

• Kenkô's Essays in Idleness and Japanese Aesthetics [Audio/Video/Text]
This video unit on Yoshida Kenkô's 14th-century literary work discusses the Japanese aesthetic of simplicity and impermanence. Featuring Columbia University professor Donald Keene and Asia Society President Emeritus Robert Oxnam.

• An Account of My Hut by Chômei [Audio/Video/Text]
A video unit on the famous 13th-century essay by Kamo no Chômei, in which the author describes his own road to becoming a Buddhist monk. Featuring Columbia University professor Donald Keene and Asia Society President Emeritus Robert Oxnam.

• Noh Drama [Audio/Video/Text]
This video unit on Noh, a dramatic form that originated in Medieval Japan, discusses Noh's history and basic structure, Noh masks, the aesthetics of Noh, and Noh theater today. Featuring Columbia University professors Donald Keene and Haruo Shirane, and Asia Society President Emeritus Robert Oxnam.