japaneseculture
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, with a seemingly endless supply of sights, sounds and experiences to enjoy. But amidst all the excitement and energy, it can be easy to overlook some of the city’s hidden treasures. One such place is Gokokuji Temple, a beautiful and historic Buddhist temple that’s off the beaten path but well worth a visit. Temple BackgroundThe temple was founded in 1681 by the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi in honor of his mother. Gokokuji Temple is one of the oldest and most significant temples in Tokyo. It survived numerous earthquakes and air raids that had previously d...
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Shukkeien Garden in Hiroshima Prefecture is a striking daimyo‘s (feudal lord) garden dating back to the early 17th century. It’s a historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into Japanese history. Unfortunately, during the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945, it was completely destroyed. However, the garden has been restored to its former glory. This garden is an exceptional example of a traditional Japanese garden that showcases the beauty and elegance of Japanese aesthetics. Miniaturized SceneriesOne of the most notable features of Shukkeien Garden is its miniaturized sceneries, designed to...
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Situated in the heart of Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture, lies Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. The Shinto shrine is over 1,500 years old. It is a popular destination for those seeking help with matrimonial happiness and matchmaking. Kawagoe Hikawa ShrineThis shrine has an impressivetorii (shrine gate) that stands at 15 meters tall. The gate is painted in a bright orange color and is believed to be one of the largest wooden torii in the country. Walking under this magnificent gate is sure to be an exciting experience for anyone visiting the shrine. A highlight of Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is the main shrine b...
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Japan could be said to be a country of yokai (ghosts). Often called goblins in English, yokai are much more varied than that poor translation suggests. These folklore beasties, like European fairies, can be scary, weird and benign. We often think of them in the summer when scary Obon season comes, but they’re present for all seasons, including the fall harvest season and winter’s dead cold. In this article, we’ll be talking about the Japanese yokai of spring. Spring yokai tends towards natural phenomena, like plants and animals. After all, spring is when the natural world comes alive again aft...
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Despite being cute, relatively unassuming animals, rabbits and hares are found in the myths and tales of a surprising number of countries. From the ancient Greek tales of the foolish hare losing a race to a tortoise because of its arrogance to the cunning trickster rabbits of Native American culture, the carrot-munching creatures are found throughout the world’s cultures and lore. Of course, Japan is no exception; in these isles, the lovable furballs symbolize longevity, good luck and prosperity. In this, the year of the rabbit, GaijinPot goes down the rabbit hole and looks at five ways that t...
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At portent times such as the new year, Japanese people often wait in long lines at shrines to draw a special kind of fortune known as an omikuji (御神籤). In the past before significant events, lots would be drawn to determine whether the venture would be blessed by the spirits. The final part of the word, kuji meaning a lottery, is apt as omikuji involves drawing a numbered stick from a container. The number refers to the fortune you will be given and how much luck you will receive. These days, other styles also exist, ranging from the relatively common pulling a folded piece of paper from a con...
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Japan is an incredible place to be a music fan because Japan loves music. What do you expect from the country that gave the world karaoke and made singing a song a viable hobby? It also has the second-largest music industry in the world (after the US). This love of music also extends to movies, with films depicting the adventures of bands and musicians like Swing Girls often striking a chord (pun intended) with filmgoers. What could be more Japanese than a group united in a single purpose and doing their best to overcome personal and external odds? Here’s a list of some of the best films for r...
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One of the best parts of Japan’s winter traditions is going to an onsen (hot spring). Submerging yourself in hot water warms your cold bones like nothing else, leaving you relaxed and ready for bed when you step out of the changing rooms. Going to an onsen for the first time isn’t easy for everyone, though. Not only do you need to get naked in front of strangers (or worse, your own family), but the many customs and rules can be scary for first-timers. Read on to learn more about what to expect on your first dip in the onsen. A brief history of onsenJapan is incredibly mountainous; of those man...
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