I've just started a course that is supposed to be an introduction to Japanese culture and history. There aren't many readings assigned in the class, and I was wondering if anyone can point out some good books or other resources for learning early Japanese history. Whenever I look up "Japanese history books", the books that come out are about modern history. Can someone direct me to some good sources about ancient or any other pre-modern Japanese history? Thank you!
Instead of searching for "Japan", search for words like "Asuka", "Nara" and "Heian". These are three of the early periods that still resemble how you think of "Japan". There's also a decent wikipedia article that will point you in the right direction.