The 야요이 시대 (Yayoi period) is a significant era in Japanese history that lasted from around 300 BCE to 300 CE. It followed the 조몬 시대 (Jomon period) and is characterized by the introduction of rice cultivation, metalworking, and new pottery styles. The Yayoi people are known for their advanced agricultural techniques and the use of iron and bronze tools. During the Yayoi period, social structures became more complex, leading to the formation of early communities and chiefdoms. This era laid the foundation for the development of the 고대 일본 (ancient Japan) and influenced later periods, including the 고훈 시대 (Kofun period).