This article explores the various peoples who have lived in Japan throughout its history, from prehistoric times to the present day. It covers the Jomon period (14,000 - 300 BC), Yayoi period (400BC - 300AD), Kofun period (300 - 710 AD), Asuka and Nara periods (538 - 794 AD), Heian period (794 - 1185 AD) and Kamakura Muromachi Azuchi Momoyama periods (1185-1868). These different cultures have left their mark on Japanese culture today, with influences from East and West. The article concludes with a look at modern-day Japanese society.