Gaman (我慢) is a Japanese term of Zen Buddhist origin which means "enduring the seemingly unbearable with patience and dignity".[1] The term is generally translated as "perseverance", "patience", tolerance, or "self-denial".[2]
It means to do one's best in distressed times and to maintain self-control and discipline.[8][9][10][11][12]
Gaman is a teaching of Zen Buddhism.[13]
Gaman is also used in psychoanalytic studies[19]
and to describe the attitudes of the Japanese. It is often taught to
youth and largely used by older Japanese generations. Showing gaman
is seen as a sign of maturity and strength. Keeping your private
affairs, problems and complaints silent demonstrates strength and
politeness as others have seemingly larger problems as well. If a person
with gaman were to receive help from someone else, they would be compliant; not asking for any additional help and voicing no concerns.[20]
After the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, the resilience, civility, lack of looting and ability of the Japanese to help each other was widely attributed to the gaman spirit.[11] The 50–70 workers that remained at the damaged and radiation-emitting Fukushima I Nuclear Power Plant despite the severe danger demonstrated what was regarded as gaman as well.[17] The word gaman is the origin of the corollary concept of ganbaru.[18]
21.5.13
Setsuden in 2011
Setsuden (Japanese: 節電, lit. “saving electricity” in English) is a national movement in Japan to encourage the Japanese public to conserve electricity during the 2011 summer months, and adopt an overall energy sustainable lifestyle.
The movement started in July 2011 to prevent rolling blackouts during the summer due to electricity shortages in eastern Japan.
Specifically, setsuden was largely in reaction to the aftermath of March 2011 when the Fukushima nuclear plant faced a meltdown after it was damaged by the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. Following the shutdown of the Fukushima power plant, other nuclear plants were also decommissioned indefinitely for maintenance checks, further reducing the nation's nuclear power supply.[1] In response to this energy shortage, media campaigns promoted Japanese households and businesses to cut back on electrical usage.
Japan faced no power outages for the duration of the summer campaign, which was a relative success.
While the movement started as an unofficial, on July 1, 2011, the government passed energy-restriction policies for large companies and target reductions for households and smaller businesses.[2] Although these restrictions were repealed in September 2011, the movement has been successful in preventing blackouts for its span.
The movement started in July 2011 to prevent rolling blackouts during the summer due to electricity shortages in eastern Japan.
Specifically, setsuden was largely in reaction to the aftermath of March 2011 when the Fukushima nuclear plant faced a meltdown after it was damaged by the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. Following the shutdown of the Fukushima power plant, other nuclear plants were also decommissioned indefinitely for maintenance checks, further reducing the nation's nuclear power supply.[1] In response to this energy shortage, media campaigns promoted Japanese households and businesses to cut back on electrical usage.
Japan faced no power outages for the duration of the summer campaign, which was a relative success.
While the movement started as an unofficial, on July 1, 2011, the government passed energy-restriction policies for large companies and target reductions for households and smaller businesses.[2] Although these restrictions were repealed in September 2011, the movement has been successful in preventing blackouts for its span.
20.5.13
Baka'uke
Bakauke (ばかうけ) is a Japanese snack food.
It is a thin banana-shaped senbei with various flavours added.
It is manufactured by Kuriyama Beika (栗山米菓) of Niigata Prefecture.
The word bakauke in the Niigata dialect of Japanese colloquially means "extremely well received".[1]
The characters who appear on the packets are Borin and Barin, who are boyfriend and girlfriend.
Senbei (煎餅, alternatively spelled sembei) are a type of Japanese rice crackers.
Niigata Prefecture (新潟県 Niigata-ken) is a prefecture of Japan located on the island of Honshū on the coast of the Sea of Japan.[1]
It is a thin banana-shaped senbei with various flavours added.
It is manufactured by Kuriyama Beika (栗山米菓) of Niigata Prefecture.
The word bakauke in the Niigata dialect of Japanese colloquially means "extremely well received".[1]
The characters who appear on the packets are Borin and Barin, who are boyfriend and girlfriend.
Senbei (煎餅, alternatively spelled sembei) are a type of Japanese rice crackers.
Niigata Prefecture (新潟県 Niigata-ken) is a prefecture of Japan located on the island of Honshū on the coast of the Sea of Japan.[1]
Mini Yonku (aka Mini 4WD)
A mini 4WD is a 1/32 scale or 1:32-sized[1] AA battery powered plastic model race car without remote control.
All 4 rubber-tired wheels are driven, thus "4WD" for 4 wheel drive.
Side rollers secure the vehicle against the vertical walls of the
un-banked track for steering, providing very fast speeds compared to slot or RC cars.
In Japan, Mini 4WD is also known as mini yonku (ミニ四駆) in Japanese.[2] Though mostly popular in Asia, they have also been sold in the United States.
Mini 4WD was first created by the Japanese company Tamiya in 1982 as a powered variant of common plastic automobile model kits. Since then racing and tuning up mini 4WD cars have become a hobby for people across the world.[3]
Bakusō Kyōdai Let's & Go!! Popular anime/manga based on Mini 4WD
Racer Mini Yonku: Japan Cup (レーサーミニ四駆 ジャパンカップ) is a Family Computer Mini 4WD-based video game developed and published by Konami, which was released exclusively in Japan in 1989.
In Japan, Mini 4WD is also known as mini yonku (ミニ四駆) in Japanese.[2] Though mostly popular in Asia, they have also been sold in the United States.
Mini 4WD was first created by the Japanese company Tamiya in 1982 as a powered variant of common plastic automobile model kits. Since then racing and tuning up mini 4WD cars have become a hobby for people across the world.[3]
Bakusō Kyōdai Let's & Go!! Popular anime/manga based on Mini 4WD
Racer Mini Yonku: Japan Cup (レーサーミニ四駆 ジャパンカップ) is a Family Computer Mini 4WD-based video game developed and published by Konami, which was released exclusively in Japan in 1989.
18.5.13
Goze
(瞽女) is a Japanese historic term referring to visually impaired Japanese women, of whom most worked as musicians.
Goze organizations existed to allow blind women a degree of independence in pursuing their careers as musicians (or in some cases massage).
The central rules governing goze behavior was to obey teachers, to be humble towards donors, and not engage in activities that might contravene the morality of the feudal society in which goze operated. Although not stipulated in detail, perhaps the most important rule was, as was expected of nuns, not to have a lover, marry, or produce offspring. If such an offense was detected, it easily resulted in the expulsion of a goze from the group.
Rules were also necessary in part because many goze spent a good part of the year on the road, touring from village to village and depending on farmers to allow them to spend the night and use their houses as makeshift concert halls.
The repertory of most goze has been lost, but songs of goze from Niigata, Nagano, Saitama, and Kagoshima prefectures have been recorded. The vast majority of these recordings are from what is today Niigata prefecture.
Goze organizations existed to allow blind women a degree of independence in pursuing their careers as musicians (or in some cases massage).
The central rules governing goze behavior was to obey teachers, to be humble towards donors, and not engage in activities that might contravene the morality of the feudal society in which goze operated. Although not stipulated in detail, perhaps the most important rule was, as was expected of nuns, not to have a lover, marry, or produce offspring. If such an offense was detected, it easily resulted in the expulsion of a goze from the group.
Rules were also necessary in part because many goze spent a good part of the year on the road, touring from village to village and depending on farmers to allow them to spend the night and use their houses as makeshift concert halls.
The repertory of most goze has been lost, but songs of goze from Niigata, Nagano, Saitama, and Kagoshima prefectures have been recorded. The vast majority of these recordings are from what is today Niigata prefecture.
Wansegu (1seg)
1seg (ワンセグ wansegu) is a mobile terrestrial digital audio/video and data broadcasting service in Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay and Peru.
Service began experimentally during 2005 and commercially on April 1, 2006. In Brazil, the broadcast started in late 2007 in just a few cities, with a slight difference from Japanese 1seg: a 30 frame/s transmission, while in Japan they use a 15 frame/s transmission.
The first mobile phone handsets for 1seg were sold by KDDI to consumers in autumn 2005.
ISDB-T, the terrestrial digital broadcast system used in Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and Uruguay, is designed so that each channel is divided into 13 segments, with a further segment separating it from the next channel. An HDTV broadcast signal occupies 12 segments, leaving the remaining (13th) segment for mobile receivers. Thus the name, "1seg" or "One Seg".
Service began experimentally during 2005 and commercially on April 1, 2006. In Brazil, the broadcast started in late 2007 in just a few cities, with a slight difference from Japanese 1seg: a 30 frame/s transmission, while in Japan they use a 15 frame/s transmission.
The first mobile phone handsets for 1seg were sold by KDDI to consumers in autumn 2005.
ISDB-T, the terrestrial digital broadcast system used in Japan, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru and Uruguay, is designed so that each channel is divided into 13 segments, with a further segment separating it from the next channel. An HDTV broadcast signal occupies 12 segments, leaving the remaining (13th) segment for mobile receivers. Thus the name, "1seg" or "One Seg".
Nagano's Oyaki
Oyaki (おやき) is a Japanese dumpling made from a fermented buckwheat dough wrapped around a stuffing of Japanese vegetables, fruit, or anko bean paste
and then roasted on an iron pan. The resulting bun is then either
steamed or broiled and eaten hot.
Oyaki are popular and widely available in Nagano Prefecture which is famous for the dish.
Nagano's oyaki are not to be confused with Imagawayaki which is made from a light batter and is eaten as a dessert, though you can find many stores selling Imagawayaki as Oyaki.
Oyaki are popular and widely available in Nagano Prefecture which is famous for the dish.
Nagano's oyaki are not to be confused with Imagawayaki which is made from a light batter and is eaten as a dessert, though you can find many stores selling Imagawayaki as Oyaki.
17.5.13
Fushimi-ku, Kyoto and Gekkeikan
Fushimi (伏見区 Fushimi-ku) is one of the eleven wards in the city of Kyoto, in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
Sights:
Also of note is the Gokōgu shrine, which houses a stone used in the construction of Fushimi Castle. The water in the shrine is particularly famous and it is recorded as one of Japan's 100 best clear water spots.
Although written with different characters now, the name Fushimi (which used to be its own "town") originally comes from fusu + mizu, meaning "hidden water" or "underground water". In other words, the location was known for good spring water. The water of Fushimi has particularly soft characteristics, making it an essential component to the particular type of sake brewed in Fushimi. This also explains why the area developed as a sake-brewing center in Kyoto. Today, Fushimi is the second greatest area of Japan in terms of sake production,[1] and is where the sake company Gekkeikan was founded.[2]
Gekkeikan (月桂冠株式会社 Gekkeikan Kabushikigaisha) is a Japanese manufacturer of sake based in Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1637 by Rokurouemon Okura, in Fushimi,[1] it is one of the world's oldest companies. The name of the company literally means "laurel wreath".
Today, Shuchiin University is based in the area.
Sights:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine – top shrine of largest shrine network in Japan
- Daigo-ji – UNESCO World Heritage site
- Gekkeikan Ōkura Memorial Hall – sake brewing museum
Also of note is the Gokōgu shrine, which houses a stone used in the construction of Fushimi Castle. The water in the shrine is particularly famous and it is recorded as one of Japan's 100 best clear water spots.
Although written with different characters now, the name Fushimi (which used to be its own "town") originally comes from fusu + mizu, meaning "hidden water" or "underground water". In other words, the location was known for good spring water. The water of Fushimi has particularly soft characteristics, making it an essential component to the particular type of sake brewed in Fushimi. This also explains why the area developed as a sake-brewing center in Kyoto. Today, Fushimi is the second greatest area of Japan in terms of sake production,[1] and is where the sake company Gekkeikan was founded.[2]
Gekkeikan (月桂冠株式会社 Gekkeikan Kabushikigaisha) is a Japanese manufacturer of sake based in Fushimi, Kyoto, Japan. Founded in 1637 by Rokurouemon Okura, in Fushimi,[1] it is one of the world's oldest companies. The name of the company literally means "laurel wreath".
Today, Shuchiin University is based in the area.
Shirabyōshi
Shirabyōshi (白拍子) were female dancers, prominent in the Japanese Imperial Court, who performed traditional Japanese dances (the dances themselves were also called shirabyōshi[citation needed]).
Shirabyōshi came about in the late Heian period. It was a time of cultural change, so in order for some women to survive they turned to performing.
They danced dressed as men[citation needed]. The profession of shirabyōshi developed in the 12th century. They would perform for nobles and high-ranking samurai, and at celebrations.
They are sometimes referred to as courtesans in the English language, but that term refers to a high-class prostitute, so this is rather incorrect. By nature they were performers. Some shirabyōshi did sleep with their patrons and give birth to nobles' children, but this was not their intended purpose as entertainers.
Shirabyōshi songs were mostly based on Buddhist prayers.
Shirabyōshi wore the trademark white facial make-up that would centuries later come to be associated with geisha, completely covering their face and neck and painting new eyebrows higher on the forehead.
Shirabyōshi were recognizable for the outfit they would wear, which was Shinto-inspired. It truly was a man's outfit, as it featured:
Shirabyōshi came about in the late Heian period. It was a time of cultural change, so in order for some women to survive they turned to performing.
They danced dressed as men[citation needed]. The profession of shirabyōshi developed in the 12th century. They would perform for nobles and high-ranking samurai, and at celebrations.
They are sometimes referred to as courtesans in the English language, but that term refers to a high-class prostitute, so this is rather incorrect. By nature they were performers. Some shirabyōshi did sleep with their patrons and give birth to nobles' children, but this was not their intended purpose as entertainers.
Shirabyōshi songs were mostly based on Buddhist prayers.
Shirabyōshi wore the trademark white facial make-up that would centuries later come to be associated with geisha, completely covering their face and neck and painting new eyebrows higher on the forehead.
Shirabyōshi were recognizable for the outfit they would wear, which was Shinto-inspired. It truly was a man's outfit, as it featured:
- A tate-eboshi hat, worn by samurai
- A tachi, a samurai's sword
- Red hakama, worn primarily by men
- White suikan and red suikan, a male Shinto outfit
- A kawahori hand fan, which men carried
Narezushi: 6 Months
Narezushi (熟れ寿司,
"matured sushi") is a traditional form of fermented sushi.
Skinned and gutted fish are stuffed with salt, placed in a wooden barrel, doused with salt again, then weighed down with a heavy tsukemonoishi (pickling stone). As days pass, water seeps out and is removed.
After six months, this sushi can be eaten, remaining edible for another six months or more.[21]
The most famous variety of narezushi still being produced is funa-zushi (made from the crucian carp of Lake Biwa), a typical dish of Shiga Prefecture.
Skinned and gutted fish are stuffed with salt, placed in a wooden barrel, doused with salt again, then weighed down with a heavy tsukemonoishi (pickling stone). As days pass, water seeps out and is removed.
After six months, this sushi can be eaten, remaining edible for another six months or more.[21]
The most famous variety of narezushi still being produced is funa-zushi (made from the crucian carp of Lake Biwa), a typical dish of Shiga Prefecture.
16.5.13
Kintarō (aka Sakata no Kintoki) and Kintarō Dolls
Kintarō (金太郎, often translated as "Golden Boy") is a folk hero from Japanese folklore.
Kintarō is an extremely popular figure in Japan, and his image adorns everything from statues to storybooks, anime, manga to action figures.
A child of superhuman strength, he was raised by a mountain hag on Mount Ashigara. He became friendly with the animals of the mountain, and later, after catching Shutendouji, the terror of the region around Mount Ooe, he became a loyal follower of Minamoto no Yorimitsu under the new name Sakata no Kintoki (坂田 金時).
He is a popular figure in noh and kabuki drama, and it is a custom to put up a Kintarō doll on Boy's Day in the hope that boys will become equally brave and strong.
Kintarō is supposedly based on a real man, named Sakata Kintoki, who lived during the Heian period and probably came from what is now the city of Minami-ashigara. He served as a retainer for the samurai Minamoto no Yorimitsu and became well known for his abilities as a warrior. As with many larger-than-life individuals, his legend has grown with time.
Kintaro dolls are offered to Japanese children during the Tango no Sekku holiday, in order to inspire in them the bravery and strength of the legendary Kintarō child.
Kintarō is an extremely popular figure in Japan, and his image adorns everything from statues to storybooks, anime, manga to action figures.
A child of superhuman strength, he was raised by a mountain hag on Mount Ashigara. He became friendly with the animals of the mountain, and later, after catching Shutendouji, the terror of the region around Mount Ooe, he became a loyal follower of Minamoto no Yorimitsu under the new name Sakata no Kintoki (坂田 金時).
He is a popular figure in noh and kabuki drama, and it is a custom to put up a Kintarō doll on Boy's Day in the hope that boys will become equally brave and strong.
Kintarō is supposedly based on a real man, named Sakata Kintoki, who lived during the Heian period and probably came from what is now the city of Minami-ashigara. He served as a retainer for the samurai Minamoto no Yorimitsu and became well known for his abilities as a warrior. As with many larger-than-life individuals, his legend has grown with time.
Kintaro dolls are offered to Japanese children during the Tango no Sekku holiday, in order to inspire in them the bravery and strength of the legendary Kintarō child.
NS Motorcycle: Japan's First!
The NS was a motorcycle
made by Nazao Shimazu in 1908. It is considered to be Japan's first
motorcycle.
Shimazu created the Japan Motor Company (NMC) in 1926 and then produced the Arrow First Motorcycle. Shimazu produced more than 700 motorcycles with the brand name of NS and NMC.[1]
Shimazu created the Japan Motor Company (NMC) in 1926 and then produced the Arrow First Motorcycle. Shimazu produced more than 700 motorcycles with the brand name of NS and NMC.[1]
Jin'ya and The Imanishi Family Residence
During the Edo period of Japanese history, a jin'ya (陣屋) was the administrative headquarters of a small domain or parcel of land held by the Tokugawa shogunate,
as well as the residence of the head of the administration, and the
associated grain storehouse. While larger domains had castles, certain
smaller domains did not, and the jin'ya, much smaller than a castle, housed the administration.
The Imanishi Family Residence (今西家住宅 Imanishi-ke jūtaku) is one of a Group of Traditional Buildings in Imai-cho, Kashihara, Nara Prefecture Japan. It dates to 1650 and has been designated an Important Cultural Property.[1]
As well as being as the minka or machiya of the Imanishi family, it served as the jinya, or centre and court, of Imai, then an autonomous town.
Its roof is made in the form of "yatsumune-zukuri" (八棟造), which means "complicated roof style with multiple ridges and bargeboards".[2]
Machiya (町屋/町家) are traditional wooden townhouses found throughout Japan and typified in the historical capital of Kyoto. Machiya (townhouses) and nōka (farm dwellings) constitute the two categories of Japanese vernacular architecture known as minka (folk dwellings).
The Imanishi Family Residence (今西家住宅 Imanishi-ke jūtaku) is one of a Group of Traditional Buildings in Imai-cho, Kashihara, Nara Prefecture Japan. It dates to 1650 and has been designated an Important Cultural Property.[1]
As well as being as the minka or machiya of the Imanishi family, it served as the jinya, or centre and court, of Imai, then an autonomous town.
Its roof is made in the form of "yatsumune-zukuri" (八棟造), which means "complicated roof style with multiple ridges and bargeboards".[2]
Machiya (町屋/町家) are traditional wooden townhouses found throughout Japan and typified in the historical capital of Kyoto. Machiya (townhouses) and nōka (farm dwellings) constitute the two categories of Japanese vernacular architecture known as minka (folk dwellings).
15.5.13
Samurai Bond
A samurai bond is a yen-denominated bond issued in Tokyo by non-Japanese companies, and is subject to Japanese regulations.[1]
These bonds provide the issuer with an access to Japanese capital, which can be used for local investments or for financing operations outside Japan.[2] Foreign borrowers may want to issue in Samurai market to hedge against foreign currency exchange risk.[3] Another intention may be simultaneously exchanging the issue into another currency, in order to take advantage of lower costs.[3] Lower costs may result from investor preferences that differ across segmented markets or from temporary market conditions that differentially affect the swaps and bond markets.[3]
Samurai Bond Market was opened in 1970 when the Japanese Ministry of Finance authorized supranational and highly rated foreign government entities to issue Samurai bonds within certain size and maturity restrictions.[4]
These bonds provide the issuer with an access to Japanese capital, which can be used for local investments or for financing operations outside Japan.[2] Foreign borrowers may want to issue in Samurai market to hedge against foreign currency exchange risk.[3] Another intention may be simultaneously exchanging the issue into another currency, in order to take advantage of lower costs.[3] Lower costs may result from investor preferences that differ across segmented markets or from temporary market conditions that differentially affect the swaps and bond markets.[3]
Samurai Bond Market was opened in 1970 when the Japanese Ministry of Finance authorized supranational and highly rated foreign government entities to issue Samurai bonds within certain size and maturity restrictions.[4]
Advantages
- Samurai bonds provide access to a diversified and deep pool of capital.
- Samurai bonds have relatively lower interest rates.
- Japanese institutional investors can easily invest in Samurai bonds because they are issued in Japan.
- Samurai bonds do not have to be left in the custody of securities companies or other institutions.[2]
- As for Japanese institutional investors, foreign firms are very popular because of their high name recognition and good investment rating; as many of these funds are very conservative, they prefer to invest in larger companies with international presence.[2]
- Japanese market is not subject to the same variations and market swings as the U.S. and European markets, giving companies an alternative financing source during economic downturns.[2]
Disadvantages
- Samurai bond market has high tax rates and an unclear fiscal environment.
- Lack of a constant policy remains a serious concern of US-based companies.[2]
- Lack of flexibility of issuance terms and conditions that create restrictions to use bonds.
- Companies that have issued samurai bonds have found high administrative burdens placed upon issuing companies.[2]
- Complicated issuing procedures and high taxes have made Samurai bond market less attractive than European markets, and experience slow growth.[2]
Yosakoi "Come at Night" and Naruko
Yosakoi (よさこい) is a unique style of dance that originated in Japan. Yosakoi started in the city of Kōchi in 1954, as a modern rendition of Awa Odori,
a traditional summer dance.
Yosakoi-style dancing has spread throughout much of Japan. The style of dance is highly energetic, combining traditional Japanese dance movements with modern music. The choreographed dances are often performed by large teams. Along with a number of professional yosakoi schools and town dance teams, yosakoi is also a popular event during the sports festivals held by Japanese elementary, junior, and senior high schools. Yosakoi participants include men and women of almost all ages – sometimes within a single team.
In the dialect of Tosa province (modern-day Kōchi Prefecture), "yosakoi" means "Come at night."
One of the defining aspects of yosakoi dance is the use of naruko: small wooden clappers that are held in the hands of each dancer. Naruko were originally used in Kōchi Prefecture to scare birds away from rice fields. The use of naruko is required in yosakoi dance, but many groups also use other hand-held instruments or props, such as drums, other percussion instruments, flags, batons, and floats.
The official yosakoi dance is based on a song called "Yosakoi Naruko Dancing", written by Takemasa Eisaku. This song was created by combining elements of three songs: "Yosakoi-bushi" ("yosakoi melody"), "Yocchore" (a children's song), and "Jinma-mo" (a folk song of Kōchi Prefecture).
Kōchi Prefecture (高知県 Kōchi-ken) is a prefecture of Japan located on the south coast of Shikoku.[1] The capital is the city of Kōchi.[2]
Yosakoi-style dancing has spread throughout much of Japan. The style of dance is highly energetic, combining traditional Japanese dance movements with modern music. The choreographed dances are often performed by large teams. Along with a number of professional yosakoi schools and town dance teams, yosakoi is also a popular event during the sports festivals held by Japanese elementary, junior, and senior high schools. Yosakoi participants include men and women of almost all ages – sometimes within a single team.
In the dialect of Tosa province (modern-day Kōchi Prefecture), "yosakoi" means "Come at night."
One of the defining aspects of yosakoi dance is the use of naruko: small wooden clappers that are held in the hands of each dancer. Naruko were originally used in Kōchi Prefecture to scare birds away from rice fields. The use of naruko is required in yosakoi dance, but many groups also use other hand-held instruments or props, such as drums, other percussion instruments, flags, batons, and floats.
The official yosakoi dance is based on a song called "Yosakoi Naruko Dancing", written by Takemasa Eisaku. This song was created by combining elements of three songs: "Yosakoi-bushi" ("yosakoi melody"), "Yocchore" (a children's song), and "Jinma-mo" (a folk song of Kōchi Prefecture).
Kōchi Prefecture (高知県 Kōchi-ken) is a prefecture of Japan located on the south coast of Shikoku.[1] The capital is the city of Kōchi.[2]
Senkō Hanabi
Senko hanabi ( 線香花火 senkō hanabi ) (sparkler - literally: incense-stick fireworks) is a traditional Japanese firework. Essays about them date back to at least 1927.[1]
They are a thin shaft of twisted tissue paper about 20 centimeters long with one end containing a few grains of a black gunpowder. The black powder composition consists of three basic chemicals: potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal.[1]
Senko hanabi are included in packets of fireworks and are ignited last amongst other fireworks.[3]
Senko hanabi are said to somehow hypnotize the watcher into silence and to evoke mono no aware (translated as "an empathy toward things," or "a sensitivity to ephemera"), a Japanese term describing a flash of sadness felt when reminded of the beauty and briefness of life. The poignantly ephemeral has long been appreciated in Japan and is still felt in the quiet celebration of senko hanabi."[3]
They are a thin shaft of twisted tissue paper about 20 centimeters long with one end containing a few grains of a black gunpowder. The black powder composition consists of three basic chemicals: potassium nitrate, sulfur, and charcoal.[1]
Senko hanabi are included in packets of fireworks and are ignited last amongst other fireworks.[3]
Senko hanabi are said to somehow hypnotize the watcher into silence and to evoke mono no aware (translated as "an empathy toward things," or "a sensitivity to ephemera"), a Japanese term describing a flash of sadness felt when reminded of the beauty and briefness of life. The poignantly ephemeral has long been appreciated in Japan and is still felt in the quiet celebration of senko hanabi."[3]
Senkō (Japanese Incense)
In Japan incense appreciation folklore
includes art, culture, history, and ceremony. It can be compared to and
has some of the same qualities as music, art, or literature.
Incense burning may occasionally take place within the tea ceremony, just like Calligraphy, Ikebana, and Scroll Arrangement. However the art of incense appreciation or Kōdō, is generally practiced as a separate art form from the tea ceremony, however usually practiced within a tea room of traditional Zen design.
Agarwood (沈香 Jinkō) and sandalwood (白檀 Byakudan) are the two most important ingredients in Japanese incense. Agarwood is known as "Jinkō" in Japan, which translates as "incense that sinks in water", due to the weight of the resin in the wood. Sandalwood is one of the most calming incense ingredients and lends itself well to meditation. It is also used in the Japanese tea ceremony. The most valued Sandalwood comes from Mysore in the state of Karnataka in India.
Another important ingredient in Japanese incense is kyara (伽羅). Kyara is one kind of agarwood (Japanese incense companies divide agarwood into 6 categories depending on the region obtained and properties of the agarwood). Kyara is currently worth more than its weight in gold.
Some terms used in Japanese incense culture include:
Incense burning may occasionally take place within the tea ceremony, just like Calligraphy, Ikebana, and Scroll Arrangement. However the art of incense appreciation or Kōdō, is generally practiced as a separate art form from the tea ceremony, however usually practiced within a tea room of traditional Zen design.
Agarwood (沈香 Jinkō) and sandalwood (白檀 Byakudan) are the two most important ingredients in Japanese incense. Agarwood is known as "Jinkō" in Japan, which translates as "incense that sinks in water", due to the weight of the resin in the wood. Sandalwood is one of the most calming incense ingredients and lends itself well to meditation. It is also used in the Japanese tea ceremony. The most valued Sandalwood comes from Mysore in the state of Karnataka in India.
Another important ingredient in Japanese incense is kyara (伽羅). Kyara is one kind of agarwood (Japanese incense companies divide agarwood into 6 categories depending on the region obtained and properties of the agarwood). Kyara is currently worth more than its weight in gold.
Some terms used in Japanese incense culture include:
- Incense Arts (Traditional incense-smelling ceremony): [香道, Kōdō]
- Agarwood: [ 沈香, Jinkō ] – from heartwood from Aquilaria trees, unique, the incense wood most used in incense ceremony, other names are: lignum aloes or aloeswood, gaharu, jinko, or oud.
- Censer/Incense burner: [香爐, Kōro] – usually small and used for heating incense not burning, or larger and used for burning
- Charcoal: [木炭, Mokutan] – only the odorless kind is used.
- Incense woods: [ 香木, Kōboku] – a naturally fragrant resinous wood.
14.5.13
Blue and Green in Japan
The Japanese word ao (青, n., aoi (青い, adj.)) can refer to either blue or green depending on the situation.
Modern Japanese has a word for green (緑 midori), but it is a relatively recent usage. Ancient Japanese did not have this distinction: the word midori only came into use in the Heian period, and at that time (and for a long time thereafter) midori was still considered a shade of ao. Educational materials distinguishing green and blue only came into use after World War II:[citation needed] thus, even though most Japanese consider them to be green, the word ao is still used to describe certain vegetables, apples, and vegetation.
Ao is also the word used to refer to the color on a traffic light that signals one to "go". However, most other objects—a green car, a green sweater, and so forth—will generally be called midori. Japanese people also sometimes use the word gurīn (グリーン?), based on the English word "green", for colors. The language also has several other words meaning specific shades of green and blue.
Modern Japanese has a word for green (緑 midori), but it is a relatively recent usage. Ancient Japanese did not have this distinction: the word midori only came into use in the Heian period, and at that time (and for a long time thereafter) midori was still considered a shade of ao. Educational materials distinguishing green and blue only came into use after World War II:[citation needed] thus, even though most Japanese consider them to be green, the word ao is still used to describe certain vegetables, apples, and vegetation.
Ao is also the word used to refer to the color on a traffic light that signals one to "go". However, most other objects—a green car, a green sweater, and so forth—will generally be called midori. Japanese people also sometimes use the word gurīn (グリーン?), based on the English word "green", for colors. The language also has several other words meaning specific shades of green and blue.
En'nichi, Kingyo-sukui (Goldfish Scooping) and the like...
Ennichi (縁日; lit. "related day") is a day believed to have a special relation (en) with a particular Japanese deity. Often, it is a day when a deity is believed to have been born or left the world. In Shinto,
this day is encouraged to be embraced as it is in the "four
affirmations" of their religious code. Japanese people generally think
that visiting a temple or a shrine on these holy days related to Kami and/or Buddha
will bring greater fortunes than on regular days. Therefore, temples
and shrines often hold festivals. At such events, there are generally a
large number of food stalls selling Japanese food such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, grilled corn, and candy floss.
Goldfish scooping (金魚すくい, 金魚掬い Kingyo-sukui) is a traditional Japanese game in which a player scoops goldfish with a special scooper. "Kingyo" means goldfish and "sukui" means scooping. Sometimes bouncy balls are used instead of goldfish. Japanese summer festivals or ennichi commonly have a stall for this activity. Both children and adults enjoy the game.
This game started in the late Edo period, around 1810.
The National Goldfish Scooping Championship (全国金魚すくい選手権大会) is the biggest official competition managed by the National Goldfish Scooping Association and Yamatokōriyama city in Nara Prefecture (Yamatokōriyama is famous for producing goldfish). It is held on the third Saturday and Sunday in August every year.
Each person plays individually. The basic rule is that the player scoops goldfish from a pool with a paper scooper called a "poi" and puts them into a bowl with the poi. This game requires care and speed as the poi can tear easily. The game is over when the poi is completely broken or incapable of scooping properly. Even if one part of the poi is torn, the player can continue the game with the remaining part.
At ennichi or summer festival stalls, the game is not a competition. Participation typically costs around 100 yen and players can take the scooped goldfish home in a special bag provided by the stall keeper.
Various scooping game variants are found, including turtle scooping (亀掬い、かめすくい kame-sukui), jelly scooping (ぷよぷよすくい puyopuyo-sukui), which features small jelly-like rubber balls, super ball scooping (スーパーボールすくい sūpābōru-sukui), which features bouncy balls, and character scooping (キャラクターすくい kyarakutā-sukui), which features small plastic figurines in the shapes of various cartoon characters, particularly manga and anime.
Goldfish scooping (金魚すくい, 金魚掬い Kingyo-sukui) is a traditional Japanese game in which a player scoops goldfish with a special scooper. "Kingyo" means goldfish and "sukui" means scooping. Sometimes bouncy balls are used instead of goldfish. Japanese summer festivals or ennichi commonly have a stall for this activity. Both children and adults enjoy the game.
This game started in the late Edo period, around 1810.
The National Goldfish Scooping Championship (全国金魚すくい選手権大会) is the biggest official competition managed by the National Goldfish Scooping Association and Yamatokōriyama city in Nara Prefecture (Yamatokōriyama is famous for producing goldfish). It is held on the third Saturday and Sunday in August every year.
Each person plays individually. The basic rule is that the player scoops goldfish from a pool with a paper scooper called a "poi" and puts them into a bowl with the poi. This game requires care and speed as the poi can tear easily. The game is over when the poi is completely broken or incapable of scooping properly. Even if one part of the poi is torn, the player can continue the game with the remaining part.
At ennichi or summer festival stalls, the game is not a competition. Participation typically costs around 100 yen and players can take the scooped goldfish home in a special bag provided by the stall keeper.
Various scooping game variants are found, including turtle scooping (亀掬い、かめすくい kame-sukui), jelly scooping (ぷよぷよすくい puyopuyo-sukui), which features small jelly-like rubber balls, super ball scooping (スーパーボールすくい sūpābōru-sukui), which features bouncy balls, and character scooping (キャラクターすくい kyarakutā-sukui), which features small plastic figurines in the shapes of various cartoon characters, particularly manga and anime.
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