The Tōhoku region (東北地方 Tōhoku-chihō) is a geographical area of Japan. The region occupies the northeastern portion of Honshu, the largest island of Japan.
The region consists of six prefectures (ken): Akita, Aomori, Fukushima, Iwate, Miyagi and Yamagata.[2]
Tōhoku retains a reputation as a remote region, offering breathtaking scenery but a harsh climate. In the 20th century, tourism became a major industry in the Tōhoku region.
The area was historically known as the Michinoku region or province.[3]
The haiku poet Matsuo Bashō wrote Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North) during his travels through Tōhoku.
Tōhoku was traditionally considered the granary of Japan because it supplied Sendai and the Tokyo-Yokohama market with rice and other farm commodities.
Tōhoku provided 20 percent of the nation's rice crop. The climate,
however, is harsher than in other parts of Honshū and permits only one
crop a year on paddy fields.
10.12.12
Hannya Mask
The Hannya (般若) mask is a mask used in Japanese Noh theater, representing a jealous female demon or serpent. It possesses two sharp bull-like horns, metallic eyes, and a leering mouth split from ear to ear.[1]
The Hannya mask is used in many noh and kyōgen Japanese plays, as well as in Shinto ritual kagura dances.[5] The Hannya mask portrays the souls of women who have become demons due to obsession or jealousy. Plays in which a person may wear the hannya mask include Aoi no Ue and Dōjōji; its use in these two plays, two of the most famous of the Noh repertoire, and its distinctive and frightening appearance make it one of the most recognizable Noh masks.
The Hannya mask is said to be demonic and dangerous but also sorrowful and tormented, displaying the complexity of human emotions. When the actor looks straight ahead, the mask appears frightening and angry; when tilted slightly down, the face of the demon appears to be sorrowful, as though crying.[citation needed] The oldest hannya mask is dated 1558.[citation needed]
The name hannya (般若) is a Sino-Japanese word for prajna or wisdom. One tradition states that this name was given to this mask because it was the name of an artist monk Hannya-bô（般若坊） who is said to have perfected its creation.[2][3] Another explanation is that Perfection of Wisdom sutras and their variations were considered to be particularly effective against female demons.[citation needed] An alternate explanation is that the artist would need a great deal of wisdom in order to create this mask.[4]
The Hannya mask is used in many noh and kyōgen Japanese plays, as well as in Shinto ritual kagura dances.[5] The Hannya mask portrays the souls of women who have become demons due to obsession or jealousy. Plays in which a person may wear the hannya mask include Aoi no Ue and Dōjōji; its use in these two plays, two of the most famous of the Noh repertoire, and its distinctive and frightening appearance make it one of the most recognizable Noh masks.
The Hannya mask is said to be demonic and dangerous but also sorrowful and tormented, displaying the complexity of human emotions. When the actor looks straight ahead, the mask appears frightening and angry; when tilted slightly down, the face of the demon appears to be sorrowful, as though crying.[citation needed] The oldest hannya mask is dated 1558.[citation needed]
The name hannya (般若) is a Sino-Japanese word for prajna or wisdom. One tradition states that this name was given to this mask because it was the name of an artist monk Hannya-bô（般若坊） who is said to have perfected its creation.[2][3] Another explanation is that Perfection of Wisdom sutras and their variations were considered to be particularly effective against female demons.[citation needed] An alternate explanation is that the artist would need a great deal of wisdom in order to create this mask.[4]
Amazake
Amazake (甘酒, [amazake]) is a traditional sweet, low- or non-alcohol (depending on recipes) Japanese drink made from fermented rice.
Amazake dates from the Kofun period, and it is mentioned in the Nihon Shoki.
There are several recipes for amazake that have been used for hundreds of years. By a popular recipe, kōji is added to cooled whole grain rice causing enzymes to break down the carbohydrates into simpler unrefined sugars. As the mixture incubates, sweetness develops naturally.[1] By another popular recipe, sake kasu is simply mixed with water, but usually sugar is added.
Many Shinto shrines provide or sell it in the New Year.
Amazake can be used as a dessert, snack, natural sweetening agent, baby food, salad dressing or smoothie.
Amazake is believed to be very nutritious.[3]
The Kofun period (古墳時代 Kofun jidai) is an era in the history of Japan from around 250 to 538. It follows the Yayoi period. The Kofun and the subsequent Asuka periods are sometimes referred to collectively as the Yamato period.
The Nihon Shoki (日本書紀), sometimes translated as The Chronicles of Japan, is the second oldest book of classical Japanese history. The book is also called the Nihongi (日本紀 lit. Japanese Chronicles).
Kōji is a filamentous fungus (a mold). It is used in Chinese and Japanese cuisine for fermentation.
Amazake dates from the Kofun period, and it is mentioned in the Nihon Shoki.
There are several recipes for amazake that have been used for hundreds of years. By a popular recipe, kōji is added to cooled whole grain rice causing enzymes to break down the carbohydrates into simpler unrefined sugars. As the mixture incubates, sweetness develops naturally.[1] By another popular recipe, sake kasu is simply mixed with water, but usually sugar is added.
Many Shinto shrines provide or sell it in the New Year.
Amazake can be used as a dessert, snack, natural sweetening agent, baby food, salad dressing or smoothie.
Amazake is believed to be very nutritious.[3]
The Kofun period (古墳時代 Kofun jidai) is an era in the history of Japan from around 250 to 538. It follows the Yayoi period. The Kofun and the subsequent Asuka periods are sometimes referred to collectively as the Yamato period.
The Nihon Shoki (日本書紀), sometimes translated as The Chronicles of Japan, is the second oldest book of classical Japanese history. The book is also called the Nihongi (日本紀 lit. Japanese Chronicles).
Kōji is a filamentous fungus (a mold). It is used in Chinese and Japanese cuisine for fermentation.
9.12.12
Takoyaki and Akashiyaki
Takoyaki (たこ焼き or 蛸焼) is a ball-shaped Japanese snack made of a wheat flour-based batter and cooked in a special takoyaki pan. It is typically filled with minced or diced octopus, tempura scraps (tenkasu), pickled ginger, and green onion.[1][2] Takoyaki are brushed with takoyaki sauce, a sauce similar to Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise. The takoyaki is then sprinkled with green laver (aonori) and shavings of dried bonito (katsuobushi). There are many variations to the takoyaki recipe. For example, ponzu i.e. soy sauce with dashi and citrus vinegar, goma-dare i.e. sesame-and-vinegar sauce or vinegared dashi.
Takoyaki was first popularized in Osaka,[3] where a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo is credited with its invention in 1935. Takoyaki is inspired by Akashiyaki, a small round dumpling from the city of Akashi in Hyōgo Prefecture made of an egg-rich batter and octopus.[4] Takoyaki was initially popular in the Kansai region, but later spread to the Kantō region and other areas of Japan. Takoyaki is associated with yatai street food stalls, but there are many well-established takoyaki specialty restaurants, particularly in the Kansai region. Takoyaki is now sold at commercial outlets, such as supermarkets and 24-hour convenience stores.
Katsuobushi (鰹節 or かつおぶし), also known as okaka (おかか) is the Japanese name for dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis, sometimes referred to as bonito).
A yatai (屋台) is a small, mobile food stall in Japan typically selling ramen or other food. The name literally means "shop stand."[2][3]
Takoyaki was first popularized in Osaka,[3] where a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo is credited with its invention in 1935. Takoyaki is inspired by Akashiyaki, a small round dumpling from the city of Akashi in Hyōgo Prefecture made of an egg-rich batter and octopus.[4] Takoyaki was initially popular in the Kansai region, but later spread to the Kantō region and other areas of Japan. Takoyaki is associated with yatai street food stalls, but there are many well-established takoyaki specialty restaurants, particularly in the Kansai region. Takoyaki is now sold at commercial outlets, such as supermarkets and 24-hour convenience stores.
Katsuobushi (鰹節 or かつおぶし), also known as okaka (おかか) is the Japanese name for dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis, sometimes referred to as bonito).
A yatai (屋台) is a small, mobile food stall in Japan typically selling ramen or other food. The name literally means "shop stand."[2][3]
Tarai-bune
A Tarai Bune or tub-turned boat is a traditional Japanese fishing boat found mainly on Sado Island and used for catching Abalone and other mollusks. The design originated from need to fish in the narrow coves formed by earthquakes.
Spirited Away - Animated Movie by Studio Ghibli
Skies Of Arcadia - Video Game by Sega
Sado (佐渡市 Sado-shi) is a city located on Sado Island (佐渡島 or 佐渡ヶ島, both Sadogashima) in Niigata Prefecture, in the Chūbu region of Japan.
Tarai Bune In Popular Culture
Tarai Bune boats have appeared in:Spirited Away - Animated Movie by Studio Ghibli
Skies Of Arcadia - Video Game by Sega
Sado (佐渡市 Sado-shi) is a city located on Sado Island (佐渡島 or 佐渡ヶ島, both Sadogashima) in Niigata Prefecture, in the Chūbu region of Japan.
8.12.12
Tenryū-ji
Tenryū-ji (天龍寺)—more formally known as Tenryū Shiseizen-ji (天龍資聖禅寺)—is the head temple of the Tenryū branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, located in Susukinobaba-chō, Ukyō Ward, Kyoto, Japan.
The temple was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, primarily to venerate Gautama Buddha, and its first chief priest was Musō Soseki.
Construction was completed in 1345.
As a temple related to both the Ashikaga family and Emperor Go-Daigo, the temple is held in high esteem, and is ranked number one among Kyoto's so-called Five Mountains.
In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto".
During the Middle Ages, the temple met with fire six times: in 1358, 1367, 1373, 1380, 1447 and 1467. The temple was destroyed again during the Ōnin War and subsequently rebuilt, but in 1815 it was lost to yet another fire. The temple was severely damaged during the Kinmon Incident of 1864, and most of the buildings as they stand today are reconstructions from the latter half of the Meiji period. The garden to the west of the abbey, created by Musō Soseki, shows only traces of its original design.
Musō Soseki (夢窓 疎石, 1275 – October 20, 1351) was a Rinzai Zen Buddhist monk and teacher, and a calligraphist, poet and garden designer. The most famous monk of his time, he is also known as Musō Kokushi (夢窓国師) ("national Zen teacher"), a honorific conferred to him by Emperor Go-Daigo.[1]
The temple was founded by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, primarily to venerate Gautama Buddha, and its first chief priest was Musō Soseki.
Construction was completed in 1345.
As a temple related to both the Ashikaga family and Emperor Go-Daigo, the temple is held in high esteem, and is ranked number one among Kyoto's so-called Five Mountains.
In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto".
During the Middle Ages, the temple met with fire six times: in 1358, 1367, 1373, 1380, 1447 and 1467. The temple was destroyed again during the Ōnin War and subsequently rebuilt, but in 1815 it was lost to yet another fire. The temple was severely damaged during the Kinmon Incident of 1864, and most of the buildings as they stand today are reconstructions from the latter half of the Meiji period. The garden to the west of the abbey, created by Musō Soseki, shows only traces of its original design.
Musō Soseki (夢窓 疎石, 1275 – October 20, 1351) was a Rinzai Zen Buddhist monk and teacher, and a calligraphist, poet and garden designer. The most famous monk of his time, he is also known as Musō Kokushi (夢窓国師) ("national Zen teacher"), a honorific conferred to him by Emperor Go-Daigo.[1]
Meiji Restoration
Meiji Restoration is an important period of history of Japan.
At that time, Emperor Meiji was ruling Japan.
During this period, power of Japan’s emperor (named Meiji) was restored, that is, he gained back his full power; and this is why the period is called Meiji Restoration.
During this period, beginning after the Boshin War of 1868, many changes happened in Japan.
In the Japanese language, Meiji-ishin is the term for Meiji Restoration. The term describes a number of events that took place in the politics and society of Japan that changed the shape of Japan’s political and social systems. These changes took place mainly during three years - from 1866 to 1869.
The feudal system was ended. Japan copied many systems of the western countries. Changes occurred in Japan’s legal system and the government.
At that time, Emperor Meiji was ruling Japan.
During this period, power of Japan’s emperor (named Meiji) was restored, that is, he gained back his full power; and this is why the period is called Meiji Restoration.
During this period, beginning after the Boshin War of 1868, many changes happened in Japan.
In the Japanese language, Meiji-ishin is the term for Meiji Restoration. The term describes a number of events that took place in the politics and society of Japan that changed the shape of Japan’s political and social systems. These changes took place mainly during three years - from 1866 to 1869.
The feudal system was ended. Japan copied many systems of the western countries. Changes occurred in Japan’s legal system and the government.
7.12.12
Sakoku: Beginning and End
Beginning from the early 17th century, the rulers of Japan started to follow a policy of seclusion, known as sakoku
in Japanese language. They suspected that traders, merchants and
missionaries wanted to bring Japan under the control of European powers.
These rulers (known as shogunate)
started a policy of seclusion. Except the Dutch and the Chinese, all
foreigners, traders and merchants from other countries, missionaries
faced restrictions. They also ordered some foreigners to go out of
Japan.
Still even during the period of seclusion, Japanese continued to gain information and knowledge about other parts of the world.
Next year, on 31st March 1854, Perry came with seven ships, and Japanese signed a treaty (known as the Convention of Kanagawa) established diplomatic relationship with the USA. Another treaty (known as the Harris Treaty) was signed with the USA on 29th July 1858. This gave more facilities to foreigners coming to Japan and doing business with Japan. Though Japan started relationship with the USA and several other countries, many Japanese were not happy with this style of forcing Japan to do such things.
Still even during the period of seclusion, Japanese continued to gain information and knowledge about other parts of the world.
End of seclusion
This policy of seclusion lasted for about 200 years. At last it was ended under force. On July 8th 1853, Commodore Matthew Perry of the U.S. Navy reached Edo, old Tokyo with four warships. The ships were heavily armed and their guns pointed towards the city. After shown such a power, Japan was asked to agree to trade with other countries. Later on, Japanese called these ships the kurofune, the Black Ships.
Next year, on 31st March 1854, Perry came with seven ships, and Japanese signed a treaty (known as the Convention of Kanagawa) established diplomatic relationship with the USA. Another treaty (known as the Harris Treaty) was signed with the USA on 29th July 1858. This gave more facilities to foreigners coming to Japan and doing business with Japan. Though Japan started relationship with the USA and several other countries, many Japanese were not happy with this style of forcing Japan to do such things.
Sanuki Dialect
Sanuki Dialect (讃岐弁 Sanuki-ben) is a dialect of Japanese used in Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. The accent is based on the Kyoto-Osaka or Keihan accent (京阪式アクセント).
There are some differences in vocabulary between the western and
eastern sides of the prefecture, and the eastern and western dialects
are referred to as the Tōsan Dialect (東讃弁 Tōsan-ben) and the Seisan Dialect (西讃弁 Seisan-ben) respectively.
Expressions
Shikoku (四国, "four provinces") is the smallest (225 km or 139.8 mi long and between 50 and 150 km or 31.1 and 93.2 mi wide) and least populous (4,141,955 as of 2005) of the four main islands of Japan, located south of Honshū and east of the island of Kyūshū.
Expressions
- Akan (あかん) Useless/No good/Hopeless(だめだ)
- Ikan（いかん）is sometimes used by young people in Seisan(West) dialect.
- Azuru (あずる) Verb To trouble/to pain/ to worry(苦労する)
Shikoku (四国, "four provinces") is the smallest (225 km or 139.8 mi long and between 50 and 150 km or 31.1 and 93.2 mi wide) and least populous (4,141,955 as of 2005) of the four main islands of Japan, located south of Honshū and east of the island of Kyūshū.
Miyajima: Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine (Japanese: 厳島神社 Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima).[1] It is in the city of Hatsukaichi in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.
Itsukushima jinja was the chief Shinto shrine (ichinomiya) of Aki Province. [2]
Near the main shrine is a noh stage which dates from 1590.[1] Noh theater performances have long been used to pay honor to the gods, and ritually act out key events in the mythic history of Shinto belief.
The dramatic gate, or torii, of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions, and the most recognizable and celebrated feature of the Itsukushima shrine,[4] and the view of the gate in front of the island's Mount Misen is classified as one of the Three Views of Japan (along with the sand bar Amanohashidate, and Matsushima Bay).
The torii only appears to be floating at high tide; when the tide is low, it is approachable by foot from the island. It is common practice for visitors to place coins in the cracks of the legs of the gate and make a wish. Gathering shellfish near the gate is also popular at low tide. Many locals add the shellfish they gather to their miso soup. At night, powerful lights on the shore illuminate the torii.
The shrine is dedicated to the three daughters of Susano-o no Mikoto, Shinto deity of seas and storms and brother of the great sun deity, Amaterasu (tutelary deity of the Imperial Household). Because the island itself has been considered sacred, in order to maintain its purity commoners were not allowed to set foot on Miyajima through much of its history. In order to allow pilgrims to approach, the shrine was built like a pier over the water, so that it appeared to float, separate from the land, and therefore existed in a liminal state between the sacred and the profane.[5]
Itsukushima jinja was the chief Shinto shrine (ichinomiya) of Aki Province. [2]
Near the main shrine is a noh stage which dates from 1590.[1] Noh theater performances have long been used to pay honor to the gods, and ritually act out key events in the mythic history of Shinto belief.
The dramatic gate, or torii, of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions, and the most recognizable and celebrated feature of the Itsukushima shrine,[4] and the view of the gate in front of the island's Mount Misen is classified as one of the Three Views of Japan (along with the sand bar Amanohashidate, and Matsushima Bay).
The torii only appears to be floating at high tide; when the tide is low, it is approachable by foot from the island. It is common practice for visitors to place coins in the cracks of the legs of the gate and make a wish. Gathering shellfish near the gate is also popular at low tide. Many locals add the shellfish they gather to their miso soup. At night, powerful lights on the shore illuminate the torii.
The shrine is dedicated to the three daughters of Susano-o no Mikoto, Shinto deity of seas and storms and brother of the great sun deity, Amaterasu (tutelary deity of the Imperial Household). Because the island itself has been considered sacred, in order to maintain its purity commoners were not allowed to set foot on Miyajima through much of its history. In order to allow pilgrims to approach, the shrine was built like a pier over the water, so that it appeared to float, separate from the land, and therefore existed in a liminal state between the sacred and the profane.[5]
6.12.12
Azuchi-Momoyama Period
Azuchi-Momoyama period
covers the years from approximately 1568 to 1600.
This period is called Azuchi-Momoyama because there were two great centers of power during this time. One was Oda Nobunaga's castle at Azuchi near Lake Biwa.[3] The other was Toyotomi Hideyoshi's castle at Momoyama near Kyoto.[4]
The times when Toyotomi grasped the government are called Momoyama period (桃山時代 Momoyama-jidai), and the culture that prospered mainly on this time is called Momoyama culture (桃山文化 Momoyama-bunka).
A new merchant class grew in cities at this time. Consumption and luxurious culture increased among the wealthy.
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period, different parts of Japan became again united. Its military power grew. In 1592, Japan wanted to conquer China. At that time China was ruled by the Ming dynasty.
At that time Toyotomi Hideyoshi was one of the main leaders of Japan. He sent an army of 160,000 troops to Korea. But, the Japanese could not win and returned to Japan.
In 1597, Japan again sent an army to Korea. In 1598 Toyotomi Hideyoshi died. After his death, the Japanese dropped the idea of conquering Korea and China.
During this period, Japanese brought many Koreans to Japan. These Koreans were very good at making pottery and at other arts. Some of them were very learned persons. Japan gained new information and knowledge from these Koreans.
This period is called Azuchi-Momoyama because there were two great centers of power during this time. One was Oda Nobunaga's castle at Azuchi near Lake Biwa.[3] The other was Toyotomi Hideyoshi's castle at Momoyama near Kyoto.[4]
The times when Toyotomi grasped the government are called Momoyama period (桃山時代 Momoyama-jidai), and the culture that prospered mainly on this time is called Momoyama culture (桃山文化 Momoyama-bunka).
A new merchant class grew in cities at this time. Consumption and luxurious culture increased among the wealthy.
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period, different parts of Japan became again united. Its military power grew. In 1592, Japan wanted to conquer China. At that time China was ruled by the Ming dynasty.
At that time Toyotomi Hideyoshi was one of the main leaders of Japan. He sent an army of 160,000 troops to Korea. But, the Japanese could not win and returned to Japan.
In 1597, Japan again sent an army to Korea. In 1598 Toyotomi Hideyoshi died. After his death, the Japanese dropped the idea of conquering Korea and China.
During this period, Japanese brought many Koreans to Japan. These Koreans were very good at making pottery and at other arts. Some of them were very learned persons. Japan gained new information and knowledge from these Koreans.
Japanese Idols
In Japanese culture, idols (アイドル aidoru) are (usually female) media personalities in their teens and early twenties who are considered particularly attractive or cute and who will, for a period ranging from several months to a few years, regularly appear in the mass media, e.g. as singers for pop groups, bit-part actors, TV personalities (tarento), models in photo spreads published in magazines, advertisements, etc.
The idol phenomenon began during the early seventies, reflecting a boom in Japan for the musician Sylvie Vartan in the French film Cherchez l'idole in 1963, with Japanese title (アイドルを探せ Aidoru wo sagase) in November 1964. The term came to be applied to any cute female actress or singer, or any cute male singer.
Since the 2007, a New category of Idol, the "Virtual Idol" is growing popular in Japan.Thanks to the advent of Vocaloid 2 and it's famous Character Hatsune Miku the "Virtual Idol" are enjoying a great popularity amongs the peoples, gaining a solid Fan-base.
The idol phenomenon began during the early seventies, reflecting a boom in Japan for the musician Sylvie Vartan in the French film Cherchez l'idole in 1963, with Japanese title (アイドルを探せ Aidoru wo sagase) in November 1964. The term came to be applied to any cute female actress or singer, or any cute male singer.
Since the 2007, a New category of Idol, the "Virtual Idol" is growing popular in Japan.Thanks to the advent of Vocaloid 2 and it's famous Character Hatsune Miku the "Virtual Idol" are enjoying a great popularity amongs the peoples, gaining a solid Fan-base.
5.12.12
Yamato Period: Kofun and Asuka
In the history of Japan, the period from the mid-3rd century till
around 710 is known as the Yamato period.
This period has two parts.
The first is the Kofun period (mid-3rd century – mid-6th century). Buddhism had not reached Japan by this time.
The second period is called the Asuka period (mid-6th century till around 710). By this time Buddhism had reached Japan.
The Yamato period saw many important changes like introduction of the Chinese writing system to Japan. The relationship with Korea and China also brought social changes.
This period has two parts.
The first is the Kofun period (mid-3rd century – mid-6th century). Buddhism had not reached Japan by this time.
The second period is called the Asuka period (mid-6th century till around 710). By this time Buddhism had reached Japan.
The Yamato period saw many important changes like introduction of the Chinese writing system to Japan. The relationship with Korea and China also brought social changes.
Agura and Kiza
Agura (胡坐, lit., "foreign/barbarian sitting") is the Japanese term for the position normally referred to as sitting cross-legged
in English. The buttocks are on the floor (or on a cushion set on the
floor) and the legs are out in front, with the knees bent and each foot
crossed beneath the other leg.
In Japan, this posture is considered an informal alternative to the seiza (proper sitting) position for men.
It is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people.
Sitting cross-legged is generally considered uncouth for women, and female informal sitting has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor.
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position.
Kiza could be translated as "dangerous sitting", as the bodyweight creates a flexion on the feet which is considered harmful.[citation needed] In iaido, practitioners stand up to draw the sword and cut after momentarily assuming kiza, so as not to sprain the instep jumping up directly from seiza.
Seiza (正座, literally "proper sitting") is the traditional formal way of sitting in Japan.
Iaido (居合道 Iaidō) is a modern Japanese martial art associated with the smooth, controlled movements of drawing the sword from its scabbard or saya, striking or cutting an opponent, removing blood from the blade, and then replacing the sword in the scabbard.[citation needed]
In Japan, this posture is considered an informal alternative to the seiza (proper sitting) position for men.
It is appropriate for certain situations but not others. It is common in informal situations, such as eating at a low table in a casual restaurant, and allowed in formal situations especially for those for whom seiza is difficult, such as elderly or non-Japanese people.
Sitting cross-legged is generally considered uncouth for women, and female informal sitting has both legs off to one side, with one side of the hips on the floor.
To sit in seiza requires coming to a kneeling position momentarily, with the heels propped up; if one remains seated on the heels with the balls of the feet touching the floor and toes flexed forward, it is called kiza (跪座). If one then lowers the tops of the feet to the floor, one then will be in the seiza position.
Kiza could be translated as "dangerous sitting", as the bodyweight creates a flexion on the feet which is considered harmful.[citation needed] In iaido, practitioners stand up to draw the sword and cut after momentarily assuming kiza, so as not to sprain the instep jumping up directly from seiza.
Seiza (正座, literally "proper sitting") is the traditional formal way of sitting in Japan.
Iaido (居合道 Iaidō) is a modern Japanese martial art associated with the smooth, controlled movements of drawing the sword from its scabbard or saya, striking or cutting an opponent, removing blood from the blade, and then replacing the sword in the scabbard.[citation needed]
4.12.12
Seiza and Shikkō
Seiza (正座, literally "proper sitting") is the Japanese term for the traditional formal way of sitting in Japan.
Seiza involves sitting down on the floor and not on a chair.
Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryūrei was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way of sitting while doing other arts such as shodo (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays.
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly.
Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikidō, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō.
To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit.
It is because movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips that it is considered valuable for aikidō training.
Seiza involves sitting down on the floor and not on a chair.
Doing seiza is an integral and required part of several traditional Japanese arts, such as certain Japanese martial arts and tea ceremony (a table-style version of tea ceremony known as ryūrei was invented in the 19th century). Seiza is also the traditional way of sitting while doing other arts such as shodo (calligraphy) and ikebana (flower arranging), though with the increasing use of western-style furniture it is not always necessary nowadays.
Walking on the feet and knees while in the seiza posture, known as shikkō (膝行, knee-movement), is considered more polite than standing up and walking regularly.
Shikkō is today quite rare, but is found in some traditional formal restaurants and ryokan, and is practiced in the martial art of aikidō, where practitioners learn to defend themselves while moving in shikkō.
To perform this knee-walking movement correctly the heels must be kept close together, and the body must move as a whole unit.
It is because movement in shikkō forces one to engage the hips that it is considered valuable for aikidō training.
Ichi-go ichi-e
Ichi-go ichi-e (一期一会, literally "one time, one meeting") is a Japanese term that describes a cultural concept often linked with famed tea master Sen no Rikyu.
The term is often translated as "for this time only," "never again," or
"one chance in a lifetime." However, ichigo ichie was actually coined
much later by Ii Naosuke (1815 -1860) who was chief administrator of the
Tokugawa Shogunate and was also a tea master. Rikyu's phrase was
"ichigo ni ichido" (once in a lifetime) – the complete phrase seems to
have been "ichigo ni ichido no e no yō ni."[1]
Ichi-go ichi-e is linked with Zen Buddhism and concepts of transience. The term is particularly associated with the Japanese tea ceremony, and is often brushed onto scrolls which are hung in the tea room. In the context of tea ceremony, ichi-go ichi-e reminds participants that each tea meeting is unique.
The term is also much repeated in budō (martial ways). It is sometimes used to admonish students who become careless or frequently stop techniques midway to "try again," rather than moving on with the technique despite the mistake. In a life-or-death struggle, there is no chance to "try again." Even though techniques may be attempted many times in the dojo, each should be seen as a singular and decisive event. Similarly, in noh theater, performances are only rehearsed together once, a few days before the show, rather than the many times that are typical in the West, this corresponding to the transience of a given show.
Ichi-go ichi-e in popular culture
Ichi-go ichi-e is linked with Zen Buddhism and concepts of transience. The term is particularly associated with the Japanese tea ceremony, and is often brushed onto scrolls which are hung in the tea room. In the context of tea ceremony, ichi-go ichi-e reminds participants that each tea meeting is unique.
The term is also much repeated in budō (martial ways). It is sometimes used to admonish students who become careless or frequently stop techniques midway to "try again," rather than moving on with the technique despite the mistake. In a life-or-death struggle, there is no chance to "try again." Even though techniques may be attempted many times in the dojo, each should be seen as a singular and decisive event. Similarly, in noh theater, performances are only rehearsed together once, a few days before the show, rather than the many times that are typical in the West, this corresponding to the transience of a given show.
Ichi-go ichi-e in popular culture
3.12.12
The Azumi People
The Azumi (安曇族) were a people of ancient Japan, believed to have lived in the north of Kyūshū.[citation needed]
Kyushu (九州 Kyūshū, lit. "Nine Provinces") is the third largest island of Japan and most southwesterly of its four main islands.[2]
Kyushu (九州 Kyūshū, lit. "Nine Provinces") is the third largest island of Japan and most southwesterly of its four main islands.[2]
Bottle Keep
Bottle keep, or "bottle-keep", "keep bottle" (a wasei-eigo: 「ボトルキープ」, botorukīpu) is a service frequently provided at izakaya (Japanese bars) where a patron can have his unfinished bottle of liquor stored there under his name.[1][2][3] This system is less expensive than paying for single drinks for a long run.[4]
1.12.12
Konaki-jiji
Konaki-jiji (translated into Old man crying and also known as the Myling) is a Japanese folklore figure.
The Konaki-jiji is said to be able to take the appearance of an old man or a baby.[1][2] In either case, the spirit lures an unwary bypasser towards it and allows him or her to pick it up. After the spirit is picked up, it suddenly becomes a heavy stone that crushes the victim to death.[1][2]
In some versions of Konaki-jiji stories, the spirit is that of a baby left to die in the wilderness.[3]
The Konaki-jiji can be traced back to family records in Shikoku where the term was used to describe an old man who sounded like a child when he cried.[4] The term was eventually used in a national encyclopedia of yokai and became a nationally known phenomenon.[4]
The Konaki-jiji is said to be able to take the appearance of an old man or a baby.[1][2] In either case, the spirit lures an unwary bypasser towards it and allows him or her to pick it up. After the spirit is picked up, it suddenly becomes a heavy stone that crushes the victim to death.[1][2]
In some versions of Konaki-jiji stories, the spirit is that of a baby left to die in the wilderness.[3]
The Konaki-jiji can be traced back to family records in Shikoku where the term was used to describe an old man who sounded like a child when he cried.[4] The term was eventually used in a national encyclopedia of yokai and became a nationally known phenomenon.[4]
Hayabusa
The Hayabusa (はやぶさ, literally Peregrine Falcon) is a high-speed Shinkansen service operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) between Tokyo and Shin-Aomori in Japan since 5 March 2011.[1]
The name was formerly used for a limited express sleeping car service operated by JR Kyushu, which ran from Tokyo to Kumamoto, and was discontinued in March 2009.
The exterior design of the trains is broadly based on the experimental Fastech 360S train, with a colour scheme of "Tokiwa" (常盤) green for the upper body and "Hiun" (飛雲) white for the lower body, separated by a "Hayate" pink stripe.[9]
Maximum speed will be 320 km/h (199 mph), although services will initially run at a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) until 2013.[6]
The name was formerly used for a limited express sleeping car service operated by JR Kyushu, which ran from Tokyo to Kumamoto, and was discontinued in March 2009.
The exterior design of the trains is broadly based on the experimental Fastech 360S train, with a colour scheme of "Tokiwa" (常盤) green for the upper body and "Hiun" (飛雲) white for the lower body, separated by a "Hayate" pink stripe.[9]
Maximum speed will be 320 km/h (199 mph), although services will initially run at a maximum speed of 300 km/h (186 mph) until 2013.[6]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)