Japanese rulers promote country's resurgence After many years of civil war, Japan entered a new period of peace in the 1600's under the Tokugawa shogunate. The first Tokugawa shogun came to power in Japan in 1603, limiting the emperor's power and influence. Entertainment and the arts have now begun to flourish in Edo, the shogunate political center. A strong work ethic among people from all walks of life is contributing to Japan's economic recovery. View from Today