Early Japan, also known as the Jomon period, dates back to around 10,000 BCE and lasted until approximately 300 BCE. During this time, Japan was inhabited by hunter-gatherer communities who relied on fishing, hunting, and gathering for sustenance. The Jomon people were known for their unique pottery, characterized by cord-marked patterns, which has provided valuable insights into their culture and lifestyle.

Around 300 BCE, the Yayoi period began with the arrival of migrants from the Asian continent. These migrants brought with them advanced agricultural techniques, including rice cultivation and metalworking. The introduction of wet rice farming revolutionized the Japanese society, leading to the establishment of permanent settlements and the emergence of social hierarchies.

During the Yayoi period, Japan experienced significant cultural and technological advancements. The society became more organized, with the development of complex political systems and the rise of ruling elites. Iron tools and weapons became widespread, leading to increased productivity and military capabilities.

In the 3rd century CE, Japan witnessed the emergence of powerful regional kingdoms known as the Yamato polity. The Yamato rulers claimed descent from the sun goddess Amaterasu, establishing the foundation for the imperial lineage that continues to this day. The Yamato period marked the beginning of centralized political authority in Japan.

In the 6th century CE, Buddhism was introduced to Japan from China and Korea. This had a profound impact on Japanese culture, influencing art, architecture, and religious practices. Buddhism coexisted with native Shinto beliefs, leading to a unique syncretic blend of the two religions.

During the Asuka period (538-710 CE), Japan experienced further political and cultural transformations. The adoption of Chinese-style governance systems, including a centralized bureaucracy, helped strengthen the Yamato court's authority. The construction of grand Buddhist temples, such as the Horyuji and the Shitennoji, showcased the growing influence of Buddhism.

In 645 CE, the Taika Reforms were implemented, aiming to centralize power and establish a more efficient administration. These reforms laid the groundwork for the subsequent Nara period (710-794 CE), which saw the establishment of a permanent capital in Nara and the introduction of a Chinese-style legal code.

The Nara period is often considered a golden age of Japanese culture. The imperial court patronized the arts, resulting in the flourishing of literature, poetry, and calligraphy. Buddhism continued to thrive, with the construction of iconic temples like Todaiji, housing the famous Great Buddha statue.

The Nara period also witnessed the rise of powerful Buddhist monasteries, which accumulated vast wealth and influence. This led to conflicts between the imperial court and the Buddhist establishment, culminating in the transfer of the capital to Heian (modern-day Kyoto) in 794 CE, marking the beginning of the Heian period.

The Heian period (794-1185 CE) was characterized by a flourishing aristocratic culture centered around the imperial court. The Tale of Genji, written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu, is a renowned literary masterpiece from this era. The Heian period also saw the development of a unique writing system known as kana, which simplified the Chinese characters for everyday use.

Despite the cultural achievements, the Heian period also witnessed political instability and the rise of powerful regional clans. These clans, known as samurai, gradually gained control over land and resources, leading to the feudal era in Japan.

In conclusion, the early history of Japan until 710 CE encompasses the Jomon and Yayoi periods, the emergence of the Yamato polity, the introduction of Buddhism, and the cultural and political transformations of the Asuka and Nara periods. These developments laid the foundation for the subsequent Heian period and the rise of the samurai class, shaping the course of Japanese history.