ABSTRACT
The progress of national unity and State organization made it necessary to establish a permanent capital, instead of changing it at every new reign as had been done before. An impetus was also given by the zeal to rival the glories of the Chinese capital, while the progress of architecture made it possible. The results of the social changes effected since the end of the seventh century were to be seen in the new metropolis, in the splendour of its government buildings and Buddhist temples with their heavy red pillars and green curved roofs and their greater size. The close connection established between Buddhism and the State was consummated in the first half of the eighth century. Not only were foreign monks and missionaries induced to come to Japan, but the Japanese themselves exhibited their talents and ardour in various branches of religious and social work.
