Yayoi is a period in Japanese history that lasted from around 300 BCE to 300 CE. It is named after the Yayoi neighborhood in Tokyo, where artifacts from this era were first discovered. This period is characterized by the introduction of rice cultivation, metal tools, and pottery, which marked a significant advancement in Japanese society. During the Yayoi period, people began to form more complex communities and engage in trade. The use of bronze and iron tools improved agricultural practices, while the distinctive pottery style, known for its intricate designs, reflects the cultural developments of the time. This era laid the foundation for the later Kofun period in Japan.