Nanban trade

Nanban trade was a period from the 16th to early 17th century when Europeans, mainly Portuguese and later Spanish, arrived in Japan, bringing new goods, technologies, and ideas. The term "Nanban" means "Southern Barbarians" and refers to these traders from the West. They introduced items like firearms, clocks, and Western-style ships, influencing Japanese society, particularly in warfare and culture. This trade facilitated cultural exchanges and played a significant role in Japan's history before its period of isolation.