Japan was “closed” for about 217 years during a period known as the Sakoku (鎖国, meaning “closed country”) policy, which lasted roughly from 1639 to 1856. Here’s why:
🏯 Reasons Japan Closed Itself Off
- Fear of Colonialism and Christianity
European powers (especially Portugal and Spain) were actively colonizing parts of Asia. The Japanese ruling class, especially the Tokugawa shogunate, saw Christianity—brought by missionaries like Francis Xavier—as a threat to their authority and Japan’s social order. - Political Stability
After a long period of civil war, the Tokugawa shogunate wanted to maintain tight control and prevent foreign influence that could reignite conflict or challenge their rule. - Limit Foreign Trade
Trade was still allowed, but strictly controlled:- Only the Dutch, Chinese, and a few others were allowed to trade.
- The Dutch were confined to Dejima, a small artificial island in Nagasaki.
- Japanese people were forbidden from leaving the country, and returnees could be executed.
🧠 What Was Sakoku Really Like?
While Japan wasn’t completely isolated (there was controlled contact and some cultural exchange), it was very limited. It’s better described as a “closed-door” policy rather than full isolation.
🗓️ End of Sakoku
In 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry of the U.S. Navy arrived with gunships (the “Black Ships”) and demanded Japan open to trade. The resulting treaties (like the Treaty of Kanagawa) formally ended the isolation in 1854.