The Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600) in Japan marks a time of significant political unification and cultural development. It is named after the castle of Azuchi, built by the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga. This era saw the rise of influential leaders like Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who further consolidated power and initiated various reforms. During this period, there was a flourishing of the arts, including the development of tea ceremonies and Noh theater. The architecture of the time featured grand castles, such as Himeji Castle, which exemplified the era's aesthetic and military advancements.