Life in feudal Japan (1185-1868) was characterized by a hierarchical social order with the emperor at the top, followed by the shogun, daimyos, samurai, and finally the peasants. The samurai, who made up the warrior class, were privileged and held political and military power. Peasants, who made up the majority of the population, were often poor and worked the land. Society was highly structured and regulated, with strict codes of conduct and behavior. However, there was also a rich cultural heritage, with flourishing arts, literature, and religion. Despite its strict social order, feudal Japan was a time of great change and growth, marked by significant political and cultural developments.