No dynasty in Chinese history is better known
than the T 'ang (618-904) for its cultural impact on her
many neighbours. The empire was so extensive and prosperous
that profound effects were felt among the surrounding peoples.
Many of them sent members of their own reigning dynasties
to study in China, who on returning applied what they had
learned to their own country. Except the case of Korea,
perhaps it was Japan which displayed the strongest Chinese
influence. Despite difficulties in communication, the
Japanese made a Herculean effort in emulating almost every
aspect of Chinese culture for more than two centuries, making
a replica of China during the Nara (710-8 4) and the
early half of the Heian (794-1185) periods
