MCQs:

1. When was hand-printing technology introduced to Japan?

   – A) Around AD 500

   – B) Around AD 768-770

   – C) Around AD 1000

   – D) Around AD 1200

2. What is considered the oldest Japanese printed book?

   – A) The Tale of Genji

   – B) The Diamond Sutra

   – C) The Kojiki

   – D) The Nihon Shoki

3. What form of art did Kitagawa Utamaro contribute to in Japan?

   – A) Origami

   – B) Ukiyo-e (pictures of the floating world)

   – C) Calligraphy

   – D) Noh Theatre

4. Which Japanese city became a center of flourishing print culture in the 18th century?

   – A) Osaka

   – B) Kyoto

   – C) Edo (Tokyo)

   – D) Nagasaki

Answers and Explanations:

1. B) Around AD 768-770 – Buddhist missionaries from China introduced hand-printing technology to Japan during this period.

2. B) The Diamond Sutra – The oldest Japanese printed book, created in AD 868, is the Buddhist Diamond Sutra.

3. B) Ukiyo-e (pictures of the floating world) – Kitagawa Utamaro was known for his ukiyo-e art, depicting ordinary urban experiences.

4. C) Edo (Tokyo) – Edo, later known as Tokyo, became a hub for print culture with illustrated books and vibrant urban literature.