Japanese prehistory refers to the period before written records, spanning from the arrival of the first humans around 30,000 BCE to the introduction of Chinese characters in the 5th century CE. This era is divided into several stages, including the {Paleolithic}, {Jomon}, and {Yayoi} periods, each characterized by distinct cultural and technological developments. The {Jomon} period (14,000–300 BCE) is known for its hunter-gatherer societies and unique pottery, while the {Yayoi} period (300 BCE–300 CE) saw the introduction of rice agriculture and metalworking from the Asian mainland. These changes laid the foundation for the emergence of early Japanese states.