The Asuka period is the period in Japanese history occurring from 538 A.D. - 710 A.D. The arrival of Buddhism marked a change in Japanese society and it affected the Yamato government as well.

The Yamato state evolved much during the Asuka period, which is named after the Asuka region, south of modern Nara, the site of numerous temporary imperial capitals established during the period. The Asuka period is known for its significant artistic, social, and political transformations, which had their origins in the late Kofun period.