室町時代 (Muromachi period) lasted from 1336 to 1573 in Japan. It began when the Ashikaga shogunate was established, marking a time of political instability and power struggles among various feudal lords, known as daimyō. This era is characterized by the rise of the samurai class and the development of unique Japanese arts, including Noh theater and ink painting. During the 室町時代, the influence of Zen Buddhism grew, impacting culture and philosophy. The period also saw the emergence of the warring states era, where regional conflicts intensified. Ultimately, it ended with the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate, leading to a new era of stability.