Uchimizu (打ち水) refers to the sprinkling of water in Japanese gardens
and streets.
It is more than a mere matter of hygiene and has, in
temples and gardens, a ritual or contemplative purpose.
In streets in
summer, it serves to cool the immediate area, keep down dust and also
please neighbors. Japanese people see uchimizu as being exemplifying national values as it combines utilitarian, aesthetic, courteous and dutiful ends.
Traditionally, this was done with a bucket and ladle, and the sprinkler would wear a yukata, or summer kimono. In its more modern forms, various green groups have used the Internet to encourage people in Japan to do uchimizu with recycled water as a form of environmentally aware public courtesy.
31.7.12
Kabutomushi
The Japanese rhinoceros beetle, Japanese horned beetle, or kabutomushi (カブトムシ), Allomyrina dichotoma, is a species of rhinoceros beetle found in Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China.
Japanese rhinoceros beetles are very popular in anime, tokusatsu, advertisements, televisions, and films in Japan. The Monster Rancher video game series also includes a giant rhinoceros beetle called Beaclon.
It is sold as a pet in department stores in many countries of Asia (in Japan, even in vending machines), where it is also frequently depicted in popular media as a common cartoon character for various uses, for example much as cartoon bears, lions, or alligators are seen in advertisements and product labels in the United States.
Many children in Japan buy or catch these bugs and breed them. Male and female insects will cost about 500 to 1000 yen (approximately five to ten US dollars).
Male beetles normally die in the fall after mating many times, whereas female beetles normally die after laying eggs.
Touching the Japanese rhinoceros beetle too suddenly, even after it has metamorphosed, may cause the beetle to die of shock.
Japanese rhinoceros beetles are very popular in anime, tokusatsu, advertisements, televisions, and films in Japan. The Monster Rancher video game series also includes a giant rhinoceros beetle called Beaclon.
It is sold as a pet in department stores in many countries of Asia (in Japan, even in vending machines), where it is also frequently depicted in popular media as a common cartoon character for various uses, for example much as cartoon bears, lions, or alligators are seen in advertisements and product labels in the United States.
Many children in Japan buy or catch these bugs and breed them. Male and female insects will cost about 500 to 1000 yen (approximately five to ten US dollars).
Male beetles normally die in the fall after mating many times, whereas female beetles normally die after laying eggs.
Touching the Japanese rhinoceros beetle too suddenly, even after it has metamorphosed, may cause the beetle to die of shock.
30.7.12
Gyokuro
Gyokuro (Japanese: 玉露, "jewel dew") is a fine and expensive type of shaded green tea from Japan.
Gyokuro is one of the most expensive types of sencha available in Japan.
It differs from the standard sencha (a classic unshaded green tea) in being grown under the shade rather than the full sun.
Gyokuro also differs from another shaded tea called kabusecha (lit., "covered tea"), in the length of time it undergoes the final growth under the shade (gyokuro is shaded for approximately three weeks, while kabusecha is shaded for approximately one week[1]).
Gyokuro tea leaves are shielded from the sun before being harvested. This causes the amino acids (theanine) and caffeine in the tea leaves to increase, giving rise to a sweet flavour.[2]
The name "gyokuro" translates as "jewel dew" (or "jade dew", referring to the pale green colour of the infusion). While most sencha is from the Yabukita (薮北) cultivar of Camellia sinensis, gyokuro is often made from a specialized variety such as Asahi, Okumidori, Yamakai, and Saemidori.
Gyokuro is one of the most expensive types of sencha available in Japan.
It differs from the standard sencha (a classic unshaded green tea) in being grown under the shade rather than the full sun.
Gyokuro also differs from another shaded tea called kabusecha (lit., "covered tea"), in the length of time it undergoes the final growth under the shade (gyokuro is shaded for approximately three weeks, while kabusecha is shaded for approximately one week[1]).
Gyokuro tea leaves are shielded from the sun before being harvested. This causes the amino acids (theanine) and caffeine in the tea leaves to increase, giving rise to a sweet flavour.[2]
The name "gyokuro" translates as "jewel dew" (or "jade dew", referring to the pale green colour of the infusion). While most sencha is from the Yabukita (薮北) cultivar of Camellia sinensis, gyokuro is often made from a specialized variety such as Asahi, Okumidori, Yamakai, and Saemidori.
Uta-garuta
Uta-garuta (歌ガルタ) are a kind of karuta, Japanese traditional playing cards. It is also the name of the game in which they are used. The game is played mostly on Japanese New Year's holidays. On each card, a poem (waka) is written, and there are a total of 100 poems. The standard collection of the poems used is called Hyakunin Isshu, which is often also the name of the game. The collection was chosen by a poet Fujiwara no Teika in Heian period. There are national conventions for the game.
Basic Rule
Basic Rule
Nattō
Nattō (なっとう or 納豆) is a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans fermented with Bacillus subtilis. It is popular especially as a breakfast food.
As a rich source of protein, nattō and the soybean paste miso formed a vital source of nutrition in feudal Japan. Nattō can be an acquired taste because of its powerful smell, strong flavor, and slippery texture.
In Japan nattō is most popular in the eastern regions, including Kantō, Tōhoku, and Hokkaido.[1]
The Japanese media frequently claim, especially in television shows for health-concerned viewers, that nattō is health-enhancing and that these claims are backed by medical research.
As a rich source of protein, nattō and the soybean paste miso formed a vital source of nutrition in feudal Japan. Nattō can be an acquired taste because of its powerful smell, strong flavor, and slippery texture.
In Japan nattō is most popular in the eastern regions, including Kantō, Tōhoku, and Hokkaido.[1]
The Japanese media frequently claim, especially in television shows for health-concerned viewers, that nattō is health-enhancing and that these claims are backed by medical research.
29.7.12
Meoto Iwa
Meoto Iwa (夫婦岩), or the Wedded Rocks, are a couple of small rocky stacks in the sea off Futami, Mie, Japan. They are joined by a shimenawa (a heavy rope of rice straw) and are considered sacred by worshippers at the neighbouring Futami Okitama Shrine (Futami Okitama Jinja (二見興玉神社)). According to Shinto, the rocks represent the union of the creator of kami, Izanagi and Izanami.
The rocks, therefore, celebrate the union in marriage of man and woman.
The rope, which weighs over a ton, must be replaced several times a
year in a special ceremony. The larger rock, said to be male, has a
small torii at its peak.
The best time to see the rocks is at dawn during the summer, when the sun appears to rise between them. Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. At low tide, the rocks are not separated by water.
Okitama Shrine is dedicated to food goddess Miketsu. There are numerous statues of frogs around the shrine. The shrine and the two rocks are near the Grand Shrine of Ise, the most important location in Shinto.
The best time to see the rocks is at dawn during the summer, when the sun appears to rise between them. Mount Fuji is visible in the distance. At low tide, the rocks are not separated by water.
Okitama Shrine is dedicated to food goddess Miketsu. There are numerous statues of frogs around the shrine. The shrine and the two rocks are near the Grand Shrine of Ise, the most important location in Shinto.
Sento-kun
Sento-kun (せんとくん) is a mascot created by Nara City Office to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of Nara Heijō-kyō, the ancient capital of Japan, in 2010.
The city of Nara has a long tradition of adopting guardian deities such as Nio (a pair of temple guardians), Asura, Jūni Shinshō (Twelve Heavenly Generals) and Shitenno (Four Guardian Kings).
The new mascot was chosen by the city office to inherit their mission, and as a "personification of the energy" of the ancient capital dotted with temples, gardens and shrines.[1]
Sento-kun is meant to resemble an amiable young boy who has the antlers of a deer, an animal which has long been regarded as a heavenly protector of the city.[1]
The city of Nara has a long tradition of adopting guardian deities such as Nio (a pair of temple guardians), Asura, Jūni Shinshō (Twelve Heavenly Generals) and Shitenno (Four Guardian Kings).
The new mascot was chosen by the city office to inherit their mission, and as a "personification of the energy" of the ancient capital dotted with temples, gardens and shrines.[1]
Sento-kun is meant to resemble an amiable young boy who has the antlers of a deer, an animal which has long been regarded as a heavenly protector of the city.[1]
- Name: Sento-kun
- Birthday: February 12, 2008
- Personality: Sento-kun is very active, always full of vigor, and good at acquiring wisdom for tomorrow from old knowledge. Also, he is curious about all things and quite playful.
- Special Skills: taking 12 trademark poses
- Favorite Food: foods of Nara
- Favorite Place: any places historical and benevolent in Nara
28.7.12
Kimigayo
"Kimigayo" (君が代) is the national anthem of Japan. From 1868 to 1945, it served as the national anthem of the Empire of Japan.
With a length of 11 measures and 32 characters, "Kimigayo" is also one
of the world's shortest national anthems currently in use.[1][2][3]
Lyrics:
Official
君が代は
千代に八千代に
さざれ石の
巌となりて
苔の生すまで
Kana (Hiragana)
きみがよは
ちよにやちよに
さざれいしの
いわおとなりて
こけのむすまで
Rōmaji
Kimigayo wa
Chiyo ni yachiyo ni
Sazare-ishi no
Iwao to narite
Koke no musu made
English translation
May your reign
Continue for a thousand, eight thousand generations,
Until the pebbles
Grow into boulders
Lush with moss
Its lyrics are based on a Waka poem written in the Heian period (794-1185), sung to a melody written in the imperial period (1868–1945).[4] The current melody was chosen in 1880, replacing an unpopular melody composed eleven years earlier. While the title "Kimigayo" is usually translated as His Majesty's Reign, no official translation of the title nor lyrics has ever been established by law.[5]
Lyrics:
Official
君が代は
千代に八千代に
さざれ石の
巌となりて
苔の生すまで
Kana (Hiragana)
きみがよは
ちよにやちよに
さざれいしの
いわおとなりて
こけのむすまで
Rōmaji
Kimigayo wa
Chiyo ni yachiyo ni
Sazare-ishi no
Iwao to narite
Koke no musu made
English translation
May your reign
Continue for a thousand, eight thousand generations,
Until the pebbles
Grow into boulders
Lush with moss
Its lyrics are based on a Waka poem written in the Heian period (794-1185), sung to a melody written in the imperial period (1868–1945).[4] The current melody was chosen in 1880, replacing an unpopular melody composed eleven years earlier. While the title "Kimigayo" is usually translated as His Majesty's Reign, no official translation of the title nor lyrics has ever been established by law.[5]
OL
An office lady, often abbreviated OL (Japanese: オーエル Ōeru), is a female office worker in Japan who performs generally pink collar tasks such as serving tea and secretarial or clerical work.
The rise in OLs began after World War II, as offices expanded. They were first known as "BGs" (for Business Girls), but it was later found that English-speakers used a similar acronym, B-girls, to refer to "bargirls". Josei Jishin, a women's magazine, ran a competition to find a better name for the business girls. OL was chosen in 1963 from the entries.[2]
Office ladies are usually full-time permanent staff, although the jobs they do usually have little opportunity for promotion, and there is usually the tacit expectation that they leave their jobs once they get married.
Due to some Japanese pop culture influence in Hong Kong, the term is also in common usage there.
The rise in OLs began after World War II, as offices expanded. They were first known as "BGs" (for Business Girls), but it was later found that English-speakers used a similar acronym, B-girls, to refer to "bargirls". Josei Jishin, a women's magazine, ran a competition to find a better name for the business girls. OL was chosen in 1963 from the entries.[2]
Office ladies are usually full-time permanent staff, although the jobs they do usually have little opportunity for promotion, and there is usually the tacit expectation that they leave their jobs once they get married.
Due to some Japanese pop culture influence in Hong Kong, the term is also in common usage there.
Karesansui (2)
The Japanese rock garden (枯山水 karesansui) or "dry landscape" garden, often called a zen garden,
creates a miniature stylized landscape through carefully composed
arrangements of rocks, water features, moss, pruned trees and bushes,
and uses gravel or sand that is raked to represent ripples in water.[1]
Classic zen gardens of the Muromachi Period (1336-1573)
Early Japanese rock gardens
Rock gardens existed in Japan at least since the Heian Period (784-1185). These early gardens were described in the first manual of Japanese gardens, Sakuteiki, or Records of Garden Keeping, written at the end of the 11th century by Tachibana no Toshitsuna (1028–1094). They were largely copied from the Chinese gardens of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), where groups of rocks symbolized Mount Penglai, the legendary mountain-island home of the Eight Immortals in Chinese mythology, known in Japanese as Horai.[3]Classic zen gardens of the Muromachi Period (1336-1573)
Classical zen gardens were created at temples of Zen Buddhism in Kyoto, Japan during the Muromachi Period. They were intended to imitate the intimate essence of nature, not its actual appearance, and to serve an aid to meditation about the true meaning of life.[2]
Gravel is usually used in zen gardens, rather than sand, because it is less disturbed by rain and wind.
The most famous of all zen gardens in Kyoto is Ryōan-ji, built in the late 15th century.Karesansui
Karesansui gardens (枯山水) or Japanese rock gardens, became popular in Japan in the 14th century thanks to the work of a Buddhist monk, Musō Soseki
(1275–1351) who built zen gardens at the five major monasteries in
Kyoto.
These gardens have white sand or raked gravel in place of water, carefully arranged rocks, and sometimes rocks and sand covered with moss. They were intended to imitate the intimate essence of nature, not its actual appearance, and to serve an aid to meditation about the true meaning of life.[2]
A zen garden is usually relatively small, surrounded by a wall, and is usually meant to be seen while seated from a single viewpoint outside the garden, such as the porch of the hojo, the residence of the chief monk of the temple or monastery. The most famous example is Ryōan-ji Temple in Kyoto.
These gardens have white sand or raked gravel in place of water, carefully arranged rocks, and sometimes rocks and sand covered with moss. They were intended to imitate the intimate essence of nature, not its actual appearance, and to serve an aid to meditation about the true meaning of life.[2]
A zen garden is usually relatively small, surrounded by a wall, and is usually meant to be seen while seated from a single viewpoint outside the garden, such as the porch of the hojo, the residence of the chief monk of the temple or monastery. The most famous example is Ryōan-ji Temple in Kyoto.
27.7.12
Japanese dragons
Japanese dragons are diverse legendary creatures in Japanese mythology and folklore. Japanese dragon myths amalgamate native legends with imported stories about dragons from China, Korea and India.
The Japanese dragon is invariably figured as possessing three claws.
The Kojiki and Nihongi mention several ancient dragons.
Dragons in later Japanese folklore were influenced by Chinese and Indian myths.
The style of the dragon was heavily influenced by the Chinese dragon.
Like these other Asian dragons, most Japanese ones are water deities associated with rainfall and bodies of water, and are typically depicted as large, wingless, serpentine creatures with clawed feet.
The modern Japanese language has numerous "dragon" words, including indigenous tatsu from Old Japanese ta-tu, Sino-Japanese ryū or ryō 竜 from Chinese lóng 龍, nāga ナーガ from Sanskrit nāga, and doragon ドラゴン from English dragon.
Ryūjin shinkō 竜神信仰 "dragon god faith" is a form of Shinto religious belief that worships dragons as water kami. It is connected with agricultural rituals, rain prayers, and the success[citation needed] of fisherman.
The Japanese dragon is invariably figured as possessing three claws.
The Kojiki and Nihongi mention several ancient dragons.
Dragons in later Japanese folklore were influenced by Chinese and Indian myths.
The style of the dragon was heavily influenced by the Chinese dragon.
Like these other Asian dragons, most Japanese ones are water deities associated with rainfall and bodies of water, and are typically depicted as large, wingless, serpentine creatures with clawed feet.
The modern Japanese language has numerous "dragon" words, including indigenous tatsu from Old Japanese ta-tu, Sino-Japanese ryū or ryō 竜 from Chinese lóng 龍, nāga ナーガ from Sanskrit nāga, and doragon ドラゴン from English dragon.
Ryūjin shinkō 竜神信仰 "dragon god faith" is a form of Shinto religious belief that worships dragons as water kami. It is connected with agricultural rituals, rain prayers, and the success[citation needed] of fisherman.
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium (沖縄美ら海水族館 Okinawa Churaumi Suizokukan), located within the Ocean Expo Commemorative National Government Park in Okinawa, Japan. It welcomed its 20 millionth visitor on 30 March 2010[3] and is a member of the Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums (JAZA).
The main tank, called the Kuroshio Sea, holds 7,500 cubic metres (1,981,000 USgal) of water and features an acrylic glass panel measuring 8.2 by 22.5 metres (27 by 74 ft) with a thickness of 60 centimetres (24 in),[5] the largest such panel in the world when the aquarium was opened.[1][6]
The aquarium holds 80 species of coral. It is one of only a few aquariums that keeps whale sharks in captivity, and is currently trying to breed them.[1]
The aquarium was designed by Yukifusa Kokuba and was opened on 1 November 2002.
"Churaumi" was selected as the name of the aquarium by public vote amongst Japanese people. "Chura" means "beautiful" or "graceful" in the Okinawan Japanese dialect, and "umi" means "ocean" in Japanese.
The main tank, called the Kuroshio Sea, holds 7,500 cubic metres (1,981,000 USgal) of water and features an acrylic glass panel measuring 8.2 by 22.5 metres (27 by 74 ft) with a thickness of 60 centimetres (24 in),[5] the largest such panel in the world when the aquarium was opened.[1][6]
The aquarium holds 80 species of coral. It is one of only a few aquariums that keeps whale sharks in captivity, and is currently trying to breed them.[1]
The aquarium was designed by Yukifusa Kokuba and was opened on 1 November 2002.
"Churaumi" was selected as the name of the aquarium by public vote amongst Japanese people. "Chura" means "beautiful" or "graceful" in the Okinawan Japanese dialect, and "umi" means "ocean" in Japanese.
Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai
The Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (隅田川花火大会, Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai) is an annual fireworks festival held on the last Saturday in July, over the Sumidagawa near Asakusa.
Unlike fireworks displays in other parts of the world, the Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai follows the Japanese tradition of being an intense competition between rival pyrotechnic groups.
Each group tries to out-do the last, and the result is an incredible variety of fireworks, not just in different colors and patterns, but forming shapes as complicated as Doraemon, Pikachu, or kanji.
It is a revival of celebrations held in the Edo period, and annually attracts close to a million celebrants. Similar events are held at the same time of year at many other sites throughout Japan.
The tradition of the Sumidagawa fireworks festival can be traced back to 1732, when fireworks were launched as part of festivals for the dead. The country was in an economic crisis, and the people suffered from famine and disease to a greater degree than normal. Thus, the rituals and celebrations in which the fireworks took part played multiple roles. These were mourning observances for the dead, as well as celebrations of life, and entertainment for the poverty-stricken masses.
Originally called Ryōgoku Kawabiraki (両国川開き), the display had become an established tradition by 1810.
Unlike fireworks displays in other parts of the world, the Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai follows the Japanese tradition of being an intense competition between rival pyrotechnic groups.
Each group tries to out-do the last, and the result is an incredible variety of fireworks, not just in different colors and patterns, but forming shapes as complicated as Doraemon, Pikachu, or kanji.
It is a revival of celebrations held in the Edo period, and annually attracts close to a million celebrants. Similar events are held at the same time of year at many other sites throughout Japan.
The tradition of the Sumidagawa fireworks festival can be traced back to 1732, when fireworks were launched as part of festivals for the dead. The country was in an economic crisis, and the people suffered from famine and disease to a greater degree than normal. Thus, the rituals and celebrations in which the fireworks took part played multiple roles. These were mourning observances for the dead, as well as celebrations of life, and entertainment for the poverty-stricken masses.
Originally called Ryōgoku Kawabiraki (両国川開き), the display had become an established tradition by 1810.
26.7.12
Yakatabune
Yakatabune 屋形船 (やかたぶね Yakatabune) are a kind of privately owned Japanese boat.
Private boats of the Shogun from the Heian Era through the Edo Era were very lavishly decorated.
Yakatabune have tatami mats inside and Japanese low tables that resemble an upper class Japanese home, in fact it means Home style Boat, and are basically for entertaining guests in the old days. Today they plow the waterways of the rivers and bays of Tokyo among the skyscrapers and temples for sightseeing and retain a traditional feel.
Private boats of the Shogun from the Heian Era through the Edo Era were very lavishly decorated.
Yakatabune have tatami mats inside and Japanese low tables that resemble an upper class Japanese home, in fact it means Home style Boat, and are basically for entertaining guests in the old days. Today they plow the waterways of the rivers and bays of Tokyo among the skyscrapers and temples for sightseeing and retain a traditional feel.
Owarai, Manzai and Nininbaori
Owarai (お笑い owarai) is a broad word used to describe Japanese comedy as seen on television. The word owarai is the honorific form of the word warai, meaning "a laugh" or "a smile".
Manzai (漫才) is a traditional style of stand-up comedy in Japanese culture, which usually involves two performers (manzaishi) —a straight man (tsukkomi) and a funny man (boke)—trading jokes at great speed. Most of the jokes revolve around mutual misunderstandings, double-talk, puns and other verbal gags.
In recent times, manzai has often been associated with the Osaka region, and manzai comedians often speak in the Kansai dialect during their acts. Yoshimoto Kogyo, a large entertainment conglomerate based in Osaka, introduced Osaka-style manzai to Tokyo audiences, and coined the term "漫才" (one of several ways of writing the word manzai in Japanese) in 1933.
Originally based around a festival to welcome the New Year, manzai traces its origins back to the Heian period. The two manzai performers came with messages from the gods and this was worked into a standup routine, with one performer showing some sort of opposition to the word of the other. This pattern still exists in the roles of the boke and the tsukkomi.
Nininbaori (二人羽織り) is a Japanese comedic act where two people wear the same large coat (haori) and pretend to be one (hunchbacked) person. One person is the "face" and the other is the "arms". Humor arises from the arms never being coordinated with the face.
This type of skit is considered a staple of Japanese comedy, traditional[citation needed] and modern, and is commonly used as a part of comedy shows; both live stage performances and Owarai (television comedy).
The basic concept of nininbaori-type humour is seen in the comedy of many cultures. The English comedy show Whose Line Is It Anyway? has a similar act called "Helping Hands".
Manzai (漫才) is a traditional style of stand-up comedy in Japanese culture, which usually involves two performers (manzaishi) —a straight man (tsukkomi) and a funny man (boke)—trading jokes at great speed. Most of the jokes revolve around mutual misunderstandings, double-talk, puns and other verbal gags.
In recent times, manzai has often been associated with the Osaka region, and manzai comedians often speak in the Kansai dialect during their acts. Yoshimoto Kogyo, a large entertainment conglomerate based in Osaka, introduced Osaka-style manzai to Tokyo audiences, and coined the term "漫才" (one of several ways of writing the word manzai in Japanese) in 1933.
Originally based around a festival to welcome the New Year, manzai traces its origins back to the Heian period. The two manzai performers came with messages from the gods and this was worked into a standup routine, with one performer showing some sort of opposition to the word of the other. This pattern still exists in the roles of the boke and the tsukkomi.
Nininbaori (二人羽織り) is a Japanese comedic act where two people wear the same large coat (haori) and pretend to be one (hunchbacked) person. One person is the "face" and the other is the "arms". Humor arises from the arms never being coordinated with the face.
This type of skit is considered a staple of Japanese comedy, traditional[citation needed] and modern, and is commonly used as a part of comedy shows; both live stage performances and Owarai (television comedy).
The basic concept of nininbaori-type humour is seen in the comedy of many cultures. The English comedy show Whose Line Is It Anyway? has a similar act called "Helping Hands".
Jōmon period
The Jōmon period (縄文時代 Jōmon jidai) is the time in Japanese prehistory from about 14,000 BC[1][2] to 300 BC.
The term jōmon means "cord-patterned" in Japanese.
This refers to the pottery style characteristic of the Jōmon culture, and which has markings made using sticks with cords wrapped around them. This period was rich in tools, jewelry, figures and pottery.[3]
The Japanese are considered today to be descended from a mixture of the ancient hunter-gatherer Jōmon culture and the later rice agriculture Yayoi culture. These two major ancestral groups came to Japan over different routes at different times.
According to archaeological evidence, the Jōmon people created some of the oldest known pottery vessels in the world, known as Jōmon Pottery, dated to the 14th Millenium BC.[9]
The manufacturing of pottery typically implies some form of sedentary life due to the fact that pottery is highly breakable and thus generally useless to hunter-gatherers who are constantly on the move. The Jōmon people were therefore probably some of the earliest sedentary or at least semi-sedentary people in the world.
The term jōmon means "cord-patterned" in Japanese.
This refers to the pottery style characteristic of the Jōmon culture, and which has markings made using sticks with cords wrapped around them. This period was rich in tools, jewelry, figures and pottery.[3]
The Japanese are considered today to be descended from a mixture of the ancient hunter-gatherer Jōmon culture and the later rice agriculture Yayoi culture. These two major ancestral groups came to Japan over different routes at different times.
According to archaeological evidence, the Jōmon people created some of the oldest known pottery vessels in the world, known as Jōmon Pottery, dated to the 14th Millenium BC.[9]
The manufacturing of pottery typically implies some form of sedentary life due to the fact that pottery is highly breakable and thus generally useless to hunter-gatherers who are constantly on the move. The Jōmon people were therefore probably some of the earliest sedentary or at least semi-sedentary people in the world.
25.7.12
Kawaii
Kawaii (かわいい [kaw͍ai.i], Means, "lovable", "cute", or "adorable"[1]) is the quality of cuteness in the context of Japanese culture.[2][3][4]
It has become a prominent aspect of Japanese popular culture, entertainment, clothing, food, toys, personal appearance, behavior, and mannerisms.[5]
The noun is Kawaisa (可愛さ?) (literally, "lovability", "cuteness" or "adorableness").
The term kawaii has taken on the secondary meanings of "cool",[6] "groovy",[6] "acceptable",[7] "desirable",[7] "charming"[8] and "non-threatening".[8]
Tomoyuki Sugiyama 杉山奉文 (Sugiyama Tomoyuki), author of Cool Japan, claims cute fashion in Japan can be traced back to the Edo Period with the popularity of netsuke.[7]
The rise of cuteness in Japanese culture emerged in the 1970s as part of a new style of writing.[14] Many teenage girls began to write laterally using mechanical pencils.[14] These pencils produced very fine lines, as opposed to traditional Japanese writing that varied in thickness and was vertical.[14] Also, the girls would write in big, round characters and they added little pictures to their writing, such as hearts, stars, smiley faces, and letters of the Latin alphabet.[14]
During the 1980s, however, this new "cute" writing was adopted by magazines and comics and was put onto packaging and advertising.[14]
It has become a prominent aspect of Japanese popular culture, entertainment, clothing, food, toys, personal appearance, behavior, and mannerisms.[5]
The noun is Kawaisa (可愛さ?) (literally, "lovability", "cuteness" or "adorableness").
The term kawaii has taken on the secondary meanings of "cool",[6] "groovy",[6] "acceptable",[7] "desirable",[7] "charming"[8] and "non-threatening".[8]
Tomoyuki Sugiyama 杉山奉文 (Sugiyama Tomoyuki), author of Cool Japan, claims cute fashion in Japan can be traced back to the Edo Period with the popularity of netsuke.[7]
The rise of cuteness in Japanese culture emerged in the 1970s as part of a new style of writing.[14] Many teenage girls began to write laterally using mechanical pencils.[14] These pencils produced very fine lines, as opposed to traditional Japanese writing that varied in thickness and was vertical.[14] Also, the girls would write in big, round characters and they added little pictures to their writing, such as hearts, stars, smiley faces, and letters of the Latin alphabet.[14]
During the 1980s, however, this new "cute" writing was adopted by magazines and comics and was put onto packaging and advertising.[14]
Japanese calendar
On January 1, 1873, Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar. Before 1873, the Chinese style lunisolar calendar had been in use since 7th century.[1] Japanese eras are still in use.
Since the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, three different systems for counting years have been used in Japan:
To convert a Japanese year to a Western or Gregorian calendar year, find the first year of the nengō (the nengō = the era name). When found, subtract 1, and add the number of the Japanese year. For example, the 23rd year of the Showa Era (Showa 23) would be 1948:
ILLUSTRATION: 1926 − 1 = 1925 ..., and then 1925 + 23 = 1948 ... or Showa 23.
Since the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, three different systems for counting years have been used in Japan:
- The imperial year (皇紀 kōki) based on the mythical founding of Japan by Emperor Jimmu in 660 BC.
- The Japanese era name (年号 nengō) based on the reign of the current emperor, the year 2012 being Heisei 24
- The European Common Era (Anno Domini) (西暦 seireki) designation
To convert a Japanese year to a Western or Gregorian calendar year, find the first year of the nengō (the nengō = the era name). When found, subtract 1, and add the number of the Japanese year. For example, the 23rd year of the Showa Era (Showa 23) would be 1948:
ILLUSTRATION: 1926 − 1 = 1925 ..., and then 1925 + 23 = 1948 ... or Showa 23.
24.7.12
Zoku and Rokabiri-zoku
Zoku (族) is a Sino-Japanese term meaning tribe,
clan, or family. As a suffix it has been used extensively within Japan
to define subcultural phenomena, though many zoku do not acquire the
suffix (e.g. cosplay).
Although zoku was applied to others in society, like senior citizens, salarymen, and political activists (e.g. Uyoku dantai), it was mostly used to label youth subcultures.
Some Japanese youths admired American music, and Japanese Bill Haley clones were known as rokabiri zoku (the rockabilly tribe).
Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music, dating to the early 1950s.
Although zoku was applied to others in society, like senior citizens, salarymen, and political activists (e.g. Uyoku dantai), it was mostly used to label youth subcultures.
Some Japanese youths admired American music, and Japanese Bill Haley clones were known as rokabiri zoku (the rockabilly tribe).
Rockabilly is one of the earliest styles of rock and roll music, dating to the early 1950s.
Omuraisu
Omurice, sometimes spelled "omu-rice" (Japanese: オムライス, Omu-raisu), is an example of contemporary Japanese fusion cuisine (Yōshoku[1]) consisting of an omelette made with fried rice and usually topped with ketchup.[2][3] Omu and raisu being contractions of the words omelette and rice,[4] the name is a wasei-eigo.
Omurice is said to have originated around the turn of the 20th century[4] at a western style restaurant in Tokyo's Ginza district called Renga-tei, inspired by chakin-zushi.[7]
The dish typically consists of chikin raisu (chicken rice: rice pan-fried with ketchup and chicken) wrapped in a thin sheet of fried egg. The ingredients that flavor the rice vary. Sometimes, the rice is replaced with fried noodles, yakisoba, instead of fried rice, to make omusoba.
A variant in Okinawa is omutako, consisting of an omelet over taco rice.
Omurice is said to have originated around the turn of the 20th century[4] at a western style restaurant in Tokyo's Ginza district called Renga-tei, inspired by chakin-zushi.[7]
The dish typically consists of chikin raisu (chicken rice: rice pan-fried with ketchup and chicken) wrapped in a thin sheet of fried egg. The ingredients that flavor the rice vary. Sometimes, the rice is replaced with fried noodles, yakisoba, instead of fried rice, to make omusoba.
A variant in Okinawa is omutako, consisting of an omelet over taco rice.
Dekotora and Dekochari
The Dekotora or Decotora (デコトラ dekotora), an abbreviation for "decoration truck", is a type of extravagantly decorated truck in Japan.
Commonly having neon or ultraviolet lights, extravagant paints, and
shiny stainless or golden exterior parts, such decorations can be found
on both on the exterior and the interior. Dekotora may be created
by workers out of their work trucks for fun, or they may be designed by
hobbyists for special events. They are sometimes also referred to as
Art Trucks (アートトラック) ātotorakku)).
The Dekochari or decoration charinko (デコチャリ or デコレーション・チャリンコ dekochari or dekorēshon charinko) is a form of art bike indigenous to Japan dating back to the mid 1970s.
'Deko' in Japanese is short for decoration and 'Chari' is slang for bike.
The Dekochari was a response by children to the Dekotora ('Tora' is short for Truck) craze which swept Japan after a series of movies called Truck Yaro was released by Toei in 1975. These movies featured giant trucks decked out in chrome and flashy lights.
Unable to drive the giant chrome-plated flashing trucks they coveted, children instead built plywood boxes around their bikes and attached chrome plating and lights. Almost all current Dekochari's have elaborate light displays and many include hi-fi audio systems and cup-holders.
There are currently several Dekochari bike gangs in Japan, including the All Japan Hishyomaru fleet, the All Japan DC Club Ryumaki and the All Japan Kyokugenmaru Gang.
The Dekochari or decoration charinko (デコチャリ or デコレーション・チャリンコ dekochari or dekorēshon charinko) is a form of art bike indigenous to Japan dating back to the mid 1970s.
'Deko' in Japanese is short for decoration and 'Chari' is slang for bike.
The Dekochari was a response by children to the Dekotora ('Tora' is short for Truck) craze which swept Japan after a series of movies called Truck Yaro was released by Toei in 1975. These movies featured giant trucks decked out in chrome and flashy lights.
Unable to drive the giant chrome-plated flashing trucks they coveted, children instead built plywood boxes around their bikes and attached chrome plating and lights. Almost all current Dekochari's have elaborate light displays and many include hi-fi audio systems and cup-holders.
There are currently several Dekochari bike gangs in Japan, including the All Japan Hishyomaru fleet, the All Japan DC Club Ryumaki and the All Japan Kyokugenmaru Gang.
23.7.12
Actroid: Repliee Q2
Actroid is a type of android (humanoid robot) with strong visual human-likeness developed by Osaka University and manufactured by Kokoro Company Ltd. (the animatronics division of Sanrio). It was first unveiled at the 2003 International Robot Exhibition in Tokyo, Japan.
Several different versions of the product have been produced since
then. In most cases, the robot's appearance has been modeled after an
average young woman of Japanese descent.
The Actroid woman is a pioneer example of a real machine similar to imagined machines called by the science fiction terms android or gynoid, so far used only for fictional robots. It can mimic such lifelike functions as blinking, speaking, and breathing. The "Repliee" models are interactive robots with the ability to recognize and process speech and respond in kind.
The interactive Actroids can communicate on a rudimentary level with humans by speaking.
The Repliee Q1 was modeled after a presenter for NHK news. To make the face of the Repliee Q2 model, the faces of several young Japanese women were scanned and the images combined into an average composite face.
The Actroid woman is a pioneer example of a real machine similar to imagined machines called by the science fiction terms android or gynoid, so far used only for fictional robots. It can mimic such lifelike functions as blinking, speaking, and breathing. The "Repliee" models are interactive robots with the ability to recognize and process speech and respond in kind.
The interactive Actroids can communicate on a rudimentary level with humans by speaking.
The Repliee Q1 was modeled after a presenter for NHK news. To make the face of the Repliee Q2 model, the faces of several young Japanese women were scanned and the images combined into an average composite face.
Rakugo
Rakugo (落語, literally "fallen words") is a Japanese verbal entertainment. The lone storyteller (落語家 rakugoka) sits on the stage, called the Kōza (高座). Using only a paper fan (扇子, "sensu") and a small cloth (手拭, "tenugui") as props, and without standing up from the seiza
sitting position, the rakugo artist depicts a long and complicated
comical story. The story always involves the dialogue of two or more
characters, the difference between the characters depicted only through
change in pitch, tone, and a slight turn of the head.
Rakugo was originally known as karukuchi (軽口).[1]
In the middle of the Meiji period (1868–1912) the expression rakugo first started being used, and it came into common usage only in the Shōwa period (1926–1989).
The origin of this art form can be traced back to the story collection Uji Shūi Monogatari (1213–18). Gradually the form turned from humorous narrative into monologue, probably upon the request of the daimyo, feudal lords, seeking people skilled enough to entertain them with various kinds of storytelling.
Rakugo was originally known as karukuchi (軽口).[1]
In the middle of the Meiji period (1868–1912) the expression rakugo first started being used, and it came into common usage only in the Shōwa period (1926–1989).
The origin of this art form can be traced back to the story collection Uji Shūi Monogatari (1213–18). Gradually the form turned from humorous narrative into monologue, probably upon the request of the daimyo, feudal lords, seeking people skilled enough to entertain them with various kinds of storytelling.
Hard Gay and Gimmicked Tarento
Tarento (タレント) is a Japanese rendering (Wasei-eigo) of the English word "talent" and is used as a catch-all term for mass media personalities who regularly appear on television. Successful tarento craft unique public personas in order to cater to certain Japanese demographics.[original research?]
There are several types of tarento.
Gimmicked tarento:
These are people on programs that have a "trademarked" phrase, wardrobe, or mannerism that is used to elicit laughs from the audience. Their on-TV characters tend to be very shallow as they milk the comic device or neta(ネタ) that gave them notoriety and hardly ever expand on their character. It is these figures that tend to have the shortest shelf life on TV as they quickly fade into obscurity after the novelty of their act wears off. They are known in Japan as ippatsuya(一発屋), or "one trick pony".[8] Recent examples include Yoshio Kojima, Dandy Sakano, and Razor Ramon Hard Gay.
Masaki Sumitani (住谷 正樹 Sumitani Masaki) is a Japanese comedian, retired professional wrestler and tarento ("talent"), best known under his performing name of Razor Ramon Hard Gay (レイザーラモンＨＧ Reizā Ramon HG, occasionally HG, Razor Ramon Sumitani or just Hard Gay). His act gained national attention and popularity when featured on the Bakusho Mondai no Bakuten! (Daibakuten) Saturday variety show on TBS Television in Japan, in 2005.
There are several types of tarento.
Gimmicked tarento:
These are people on programs that have a "trademarked" phrase, wardrobe, or mannerism that is used to elicit laughs from the audience. Their on-TV characters tend to be very shallow as they milk the comic device or neta(ネタ) that gave them notoriety and hardly ever expand on their character. It is these figures that tend to have the shortest shelf life on TV as they quickly fade into obscurity after the novelty of their act wears off. They are known in Japan as ippatsuya(一発屋), or "one trick pony".[8] Recent examples include Yoshio Kojima, Dandy Sakano, and Razor Ramon Hard Gay.
Masaki Sumitani (住谷 正樹 Sumitani Masaki) is a Japanese comedian, retired professional wrestler and tarento ("talent"), best known under his performing name of Razor Ramon Hard Gay (レイザーラモンＨＧ Reizā Ramon HG, occasionally HG, Razor Ramon Sumitani or just Hard Gay). His act gained national attention and popularity when featured on the Bakusho Mondai no Bakuten! (Daibakuten) Saturday variety show on TBS Television in Japan, in 2005.
22.7.12
JAL (Japan Air Lines)
Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. (JAL) (日本航空株式会社 Nihon Kōkū Kabushiki-gaisha) is an airline headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan.
JAL was established in 1951 and became the national airline of Japan in 1953.
Japan Airlines serves 33 international destinations in Asia, the Americas, Europe and Oceania, excluding codeshares. The airline group also serves 59 domestic destinations within Japan.[108]
MAGIC, JAL's in-flight entertainment system, supported by the JAL Entertainment Network (JEN), features the latest hit movies and videos, games and audio programs.
Attention Please (アテンションプリーズ Atenshon Purīzu) is a manga by Chieko Hosokawa about the training of flight attendants for Japan Airlines originally serialized in Shōjo Friend from Kodansha beginning in 1970. Tokyo Broadcasting System adapted a TV drama from the manga in 1970. Thirty-six years later, Fuji TV produced a new drama series in 2006.
A codeshare agreement, sometimes simply codeshare, is an aviation business arrangement where two or more airlines share the same flight.
JAL was established in 1951 and became the national airline of Japan in 1953.
Japan Airlines serves 33 international destinations in Asia, the Americas, Europe and Oceania, excluding codeshares. The airline group also serves 59 domestic destinations within Japan.[108]
MAGIC, JAL's in-flight entertainment system, supported by the JAL Entertainment Network (JEN), features the latest hit movies and videos, games and audio programs.
Attention Please (アテンションプリーズ Atenshon Purīzu) is a manga by Chieko Hosokawa about the training of flight attendants for Japan Airlines originally serialized in Shōjo Friend from Kodansha beginning in 1970. Tokyo Broadcasting System adapted a TV drama from the manga in 1970. Thirty-six years later, Fuji TV produced a new drama series in 2006.
A codeshare agreement, sometimes simply codeshare, is an aviation business arrangement where two or more airlines share the same flight.
Tsuyu and Saihō-ji
In Japan, Tsuyu (梅雨, rainy season) lasts from early June to mid-July for most of the
country (on the main island of Honshū and the islands of Kyūshū and
Shikoku), approximately June 7th to July 20th for the main Kansai and
Kantō regions.[5]
It comes a month earlier to Okinawa in the south (early May through mid-June), but Hokkaidō in the north is largely unaffected.
Vegetation, especially moss, is also rather lush at this time, and hence sights known for their moss, such as Saihō-ji (the moss temple) are also popular at this time of year.
Saihō-ji (西芳寺) is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple located in Matsuo, Nishikyō Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
The famous moss garden of Saihō-ji, commonly referred to as "Koke-dera" (苔寺), meaning "moss temple", is situated in the eastern temple grounds. Located in a grove, the garden is arranged as a circular promenade centered around Golden Pond (黄金池 ōgonchi). The pond is shaped like the Chinese character for "heart" or "mind" (心 kokoro) and contains three small islands: Asahi Island (朝日島), Yūhi Island (夕日島), and Kiri Island (霧島). The area around the pond is said to be covered with more than 120 varieties of moss, believed to have started growing after the flooding of the temple grounds in the Edo Period.
In 1994, Saihō-ji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto".[1][2]
It comes a month earlier to Okinawa in the south (early May through mid-June), but Hokkaidō in the north is largely unaffected.
Vegetation, especially moss, is also rather lush at this time, and hence sights known for their moss, such as Saihō-ji (the moss temple) are also popular at this time of year.
Saihō-ji (西芳寺) is a Rinzai Zen Buddhist temple located in Matsuo, Nishikyō Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
The famous moss garden of Saihō-ji, commonly referred to as "Koke-dera" (苔寺), meaning "moss temple", is situated in the eastern temple grounds. Located in a grove, the garden is arranged as a circular promenade centered around Golden Pond (黄金池 ōgonchi). The pond is shaped like the Chinese character for "heart" or "mind" (心 kokoro) and contains three small islands: Asahi Island (朝日島), Yūhi Island (夕日島), and Kiri Island (霧島). The area around the pond is said to be covered with more than 120 varieties of moss, believed to have started growing after the flooding of the temple grounds in the Edo Period.
In 1994, Saihō-ji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto".[1][2]
Batsu game
A Batsu game (罰ゲーム, batsu gēmu), meaning "penalty game", is a common element in Japanese owarai stage comedy and variety shows. The name comes from batsu (罰, batsu), meaning both "punishment" and "X", as in an incorrect answer.
Generally, a batsu game takes place after some sort of competition or bet. The winner forces the loser to participate in the batsu game, which involves doing something unpleasant or experiencing something unpleasant. The winner takes enjoyment in the fact that he does not have to experience the punishment and that he is forcing the loser to do so. Because the batsu game relies on an acceptance on the part of the loser to experience the punishment as a result of losing, precautions must be taken to ensure that the punishment game is not too cruel or needlessly painful.
The most basic example of a batsu game in a variety show would start with a game of "rock, paper, scissors".
Batsu games are often shown on Japanese TV shows because they are considered funny. However, the humor arises not from the punishment itself, but from the reactions of the (most commonly) comedians who are experiencing the punishment.
Generally, a batsu game takes place after some sort of competition or bet. The winner forces the loser to participate in the batsu game, which involves doing something unpleasant or experiencing something unpleasant. The winner takes enjoyment in the fact that he does not have to experience the punishment and that he is forcing the loser to do so. Because the batsu game relies on an acceptance on the part of the loser to experience the punishment as a result of losing, precautions must be taken to ensure that the punishment game is not too cruel or needlessly painful.
The most basic example of a batsu game in a variety show would start with a game of "rock, paper, scissors".
Batsu games are often shown on Japanese TV shows because they are considered funny. However, the humor arises not from the punishment itself, but from the reactions of the (most commonly) comedians who are experiencing the punishment.
21.7.12
Necomimi and Neurowear
Neurowear is a gadget project organization (not a company) in Japan founded on the concept of the "Augmented Human Body".[1]
The group's first project, known as Necomimi (from nekomimi (猫耳, "cat ear(s)")) is a headband with a MindWave brain wave sensor manufactured by NeuroSky[2] and motorized cat shaped ears programmed to turn up when the wearer concentrates and to turn down when he or she relaxes.
In November 2011, Time Magazine selected necomimi as one of the 50 best inventions of the year.[4][5]
The commercial version runs for 4 hours on 4 AAA batteries and has interchangeable ears.
The group's first project, known as Necomimi (from nekomimi (猫耳, "cat ear(s)")) is a headband with a MindWave brain wave sensor manufactured by NeuroSky[2] and motorized cat shaped ears programmed to turn up when the wearer concentrates and to turn down when he or she relaxes.
In November 2011, Time Magazine selected necomimi as one of the 50 best inventions of the year.[4][5]
The commercial version runs for 4 hours on 4 AAA batteries and has interchangeable ears.
Netsuke
Netsuke (Japanese:根付) are miniature sculptures that were invented in 17th-century Japan to serve a practical function (the two Japanese characters ne+tsuke mean "root" and "to attach"). Traditional Japanese garments—robes called kosode and kimono—had
no pockets; however, men who wore them needed a place to store their
personal belongings, such as pipes, tobacco, money, seals, or medicines.
Their solution was to place such objects in containers (called sagemono) hung by cords from the robes' sashes (obi). The containers may have been pouches or small woven baskets, but the most popular were beautifully crafted boxes (inro), which were held shut by ojime, which were sliding beads on cords. Whatever the form of the container, the fastener that secured the cord at the top of the sash was a carved, button-like toggle called a netsuke.
Netsuke, like the inro and ojime, evolved over time from being strictly utilitarian into objects of great artistic merit and an expression of extraordinary craftsmanship.
katabori netsuke (形彫根付) or "sculpture netsuke" - This is the most common type of netsuke. They are compact three-dimensional figures carved in a round shape and are usually around one to three inches high.
Their solution was to place such objects in containers (called sagemono) hung by cords from the robes' sashes (obi). The containers may have been pouches or small woven baskets, but the most popular were beautifully crafted boxes (inro), which were held shut by ojime, which were sliding beads on cords. Whatever the form of the container, the fastener that secured the cord at the top of the sash was a carved, button-like toggle called a netsuke.
Netsuke, like the inro and ojime, evolved over time from being strictly utilitarian into objects of great artistic merit and an expression of extraordinary craftsmanship.
katabori netsuke (形彫根付) or "sculpture netsuke" - This is the most common type of netsuke. They are compact three-dimensional figures carved in a round shape and are usually around one to three inches high.
20.7.12
Anko
Red bean paste or Azuki bean paste is a sweet, dark red bean paste originating from China. It is used in Chinese cuisine, Japanese confectionery, and Korean cuisine. It is prepared by boiling and mashing azuki beans
and then sweetening the paste with sugar or honey. The husk of the
beans may be removed by sieving before sweetening, which leads to a
smoother and more homogeneous paste.
Red bean paste is graded according to its consistency.
In Japanese cuisine, the most common types are:
Red bean paste is graded according to its consistency.
In Japanese cuisine, the most common types are:
- Tsubuan (粒餡), whole red beans boiled with sugar but otherwise untreated
- Tsubushian (潰し餡), where the beans are mashed after boiling
- Koshian (漉し餡), which has been passed through a sieve to remove bean skins; the most common type
- Sarashian (晒し餡), which has been dried and reconstituted with water
- Anmitsu, a dessert consisting of red bean paste, small cubes of agar jelly, and pieces of fruit served with syrup.
- Anpan, a sweet bun filled with red bean paste.
- Daifuku, a confection consisting of a small round rice cake stuffed with red bean paste.
- Dango, a dumpling made from rice flour topped with red bean paste.
- Dorayaki, a confection consisting of two small pancake-like patties made from castella wrapped around a filling of red bean paste.
- Manjū, a steamed cake filled with red bean paste.
- Oshiruko or Zenzai, azuki bean soup, commonly served with rice cake.
- Taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake stuffed with red bean paste.
- Yōkan, a thick jellied dessert made of red bean paste, agar, and sugar.
Tokoroten
Tokoroten is a dish in Japanese cuisine made from agar substance extracted from seaweeds such as tengusa (Gelidiaceae) and ogonori (Gracilaria) by boiling.
Pressed against a device, the kanten (agar) is shaped into noodles.
Unlike gelatin desserts, tokoroten has a firmer texture. Flavorings vary from region to region, and can include variations of vinegar, soy sauce, hot pepper, or sesame.
Pressed against a device, the kanten (agar) is shaped into noodles.
Unlike gelatin desserts, tokoroten has a firmer texture. Flavorings vary from region to region, and can include variations of vinegar, soy sauce, hot pepper, or sesame.
| Type | Wagashi |
|---|---|
| Main ingredient(s) | Agar, seaweed (tengusa, ogonori) |
Genkan and Getabako
Genkan (玄関) are traditional Japanese entryway areas for a house, apartment, or building—something of a combination of a porch and a doormat.
The primary function of genkan is for the removal of shoes before entering the main part of the house or building. Genkan are often recessed into the floor, to contain any dirt that is tracked in from the outside (as in a mud room).
The tiled or concrete genkan floor is called tataki (三和土).
Upon entry, shoes are usually turned to face the door so they can be slipped on easily when leaving or placed into a getabako.
A getabako (下駄箱) is a Japanese shoe cupboard, usually situated in the genkan, an entryway or porch of the house. In Japan, it is considered uncouth to not remove one's shoes before entering the house. Near the getabako is a slipper rack, and most people in Japan wear slippers around the house, except for rooms which have tatami flooring as they are bad for the floor. The getabako is usually made of wood and bamboo, and there are many sold all over the world.
After removing shoes, one must avoid stepping in the genkan in socks or with bare feet, to avoid bringing dirt into the house. Once inside, generally one will change into slippers, or shoes intended for indoor wear (Uwabaki).
The primary function of genkan is for the removal of shoes before entering the main part of the house or building. Genkan are often recessed into the floor, to contain any dirt that is tracked in from the outside (as in a mud room).
The tiled or concrete genkan floor is called tataki (三和土).
Upon entry, shoes are usually turned to face the door so they can be slipped on easily when leaving or placed into a getabako.
A getabako (下駄箱) is a Japanese shoe cupboard, usually situated in the genkan, an entryway or porch of the house. In Japan, it is considered uncouth to not remove one's shoes before entering the house. Near the getabako is a slipper rack, and most people in Japan wear slippers around the house, except for rooms which have tatami flooring as they are bad for the floor. The getabako is usually made of wood and bamboo, and there are many sold all over the world.
After removing shoes, one must avoid stepping in the genkan in socks or with bare feet, to avoid bringing dirt into the house. Once inside, generally one will change into slippers, or shoes intended for indoor wear (Uwabaki).
19.7.12
Byōbu
Byōbu (屏風, wind wall) are Japanese folding screens made from several joined panels bearing decorative painting and calligraphy, used to separate interiors and enclose private spaces, among other uses.
Like many Japanese arts and crafts, folding screens originated in China; prototypes dating back to the Han dynasty have been found. The term "byōbu" figuratively means "protection from wind", which suggests that the original purpose of byōbu was blocking drafts. Byōbu were introduced in Japan in the eighth century, when Japanese craftsmen started making their own byōbu, highly influenced by Chinese patterns. Through different Japanese eras, byōbu evolved in structure and design, along with the techniques and materials used.
Current day: Byōbu are often machine-made, however hand-crafted byōbu are still available, mainly produced by families that preserve the crafting traditions.
Like many Japanese arts and crafts, folding screens originated in China; prototypes dating back to the Han dynasty have been found. The term "byōbu" figuratively means "protection from wind", which suggests that the original purpose of byōbu was blocking drafts. Byōbu were introduced in Japan in the eighth century, when Japanese craftsmen started making their own byōbu, highly influenced by Chinese patterns. Through different Japanese eras, byōbu evolved in structure and design, along with the techniques and materials used.
Current day: Byōbu are often machine-made, however hand-crafted byōbu are still available, mainly produced by families that preserve the crafting traditions.
Nanoblocks and Executive toy
Nanoblocks, a system of plastic building blocks similar to Lego
but about half the linear dimensions. Most finished models are designed
to be tiny, of a size suitable for an office desk decoration.
Japan is the country of origin for Nanoblocks (Kawada Co. Ltd.)
Japan is the country of origin for Nanoblocks (Kawada Co. Ltd.)
An executive toy is a novelty item
that is usually a small mechanical gadget placed on the desk of a
corporate executive or other office workers. They have no work-related
function but are usually interesting to look at and entertaining.
Example of executive toy:
Newton's cradle,
where a set of metal balls are suspended from above, one is pulled from
the rest and kicks them, transferring the kinetic energy to the last
one.
Tōrō
In Japan a tōrō (灯籠 or 灯篭, 灯楼 light basket, light tower)[note 1]
is a traditional lantern made of stone, wood, or metal.
Like many other elements of Japanese traditional architecture, it originated in China, however extant specimen in that country are very rare, and in Korea they are not as common as in Japan.[1]
In Japan, tōrō were originally used only in Buddhist temples, where they lined and illuminated paths. Lit lanterns were then considered an offering to Buddha.[2] During the Heian period (794-1185), however, they started being used also in Shinto shrines and private homes.[3]
Tōrō can be classified in two main types, the tsuri-dōrō (釣灯籠・掻灯・吊り灯籠 lit. hanging lamp), which usually hang from the eaves of a roof, and the dai-dōrō (台灯籠 lit. platform lamp) used in gardens and along the approach (sandō) of a shrine or temple.[3]
The oldest extant bronze and stone lanterns can be found in Nara.
In its complete, original form, like the gorintō and the pagoda the dai-dōrō represents the five elements of Buddhist cosmology.[5]
Like many other elements of Japanese traditional architecture, it originated in China, however extant specimen in that country are very rare, and in Korea they are not as common as in Japan.[1]
In Japan, tōrō were originally used only in Buddhist temples, where they lined and illuminated paths. Lit lanterns were then considered an offering to Buddha.[2] During the Heian period (794-1185), however, they started being used also in Shinto shrines and private homes.[3]
Tōrō can be classified in two main types, the tsuri-dōrō (釣灯籠・掻灯・吊り灯籠 lit. hanging lamp), which usually hang from the eaves of a roof, and the dai-dōrō (台灯籠 lit. platform lamp) used in gardens and along the approach (sandō) of a shrine or temple.[3]
The oldest extant bronze and stone lanterns can be found in Nara.
In its complete, original form, like the gorintō and the pagoda the dai-dōrō represents the five elements of Buddhist cosmology.[5]
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