The Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1568-1600) was a significant era in Japanese history marked by the unification of Japan under powerful warlords. This period is named after the castle of Azuchi, built by Oda Nobunaga, a key figure in the unification process. Nobunaga's efforts were continued by his successor, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who further consolidated power and promoted cultural developments. During this time, there was a flourishing of arts and culture, including the rise of tea ceremonies and the construction of ornate castles. The period ended with the rise of the Tokugawa shogunate, which established a long-lasting peace and stability in Japan.