The Muromachi Period (1336-1573) was a significant era in Japanese history, marked by the rule of the Ashikaga shogunate. It began after the fall of the Kamakura shogunate and is characterized by a decentralized government, where local lords, known as daimyō, held considerable power. This period saw the rise of the samurai class and the development of unique cultural practices. Culturally, the Muromachi Period is known for its advancements in art, particularly in ink painting and the tea ceremony. The influence of Zen Buddhism was prominent, leading to the creation of beautiful gardens and minimalist aesthetics. This era laid the groundwork for the later Azuchi-Momoyama Period.