Japanese Culture
Japanese Culture
Taketomi Island
One of the Yaeyama Islands, Taketomi Island is situated on the cost of Ishigaki Island in the Okinawa Prefecture. Although it is a very small island, many travelers make the visit to the quaint destination which houses an authentic preserved Ryukyu village. The traditional village has been well-preserved and offers a unique glimpse into history... Read More
Japan Packing Guide: What to pack for Japan?
Packing for any trip is always important and requires some planning ahead. Depending on the season, packing for Japan may vary based on the weather. Taking the extra step to check the temperatures ahead of time can make all the difference, and ensure you are properly prepared. With neighborhoods like Harajuku leading the trends, it... Read More
Yasaka Koshin-do Temple
Located in Kyoto, in the Higashiyama district, the Yasaka Koshin-do Temple, also known as Daikoku-san Kongo-ji Koshin-do can be found. A relatively small temple, it is close to the well-known Kiyomizu dera temple in Kyoto. One of the most notable features about Yasaka Koshin is the brightly colored “kukurizaru” which are small balls containing the... Read More
Okazaki Shrine (Rabbit Shrine)
The Okazaki Shrine, also known as the Rabbit Shrine is a Shinto Shrine in Kyoto that is dedicated to the kami Susano-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto from Japanese mythology. They had many children, five sons, and three daughters so the shrine is known for prosperity and childbirth, especially for those who are trying to conceive. The rabbits... Read More
Japanese Chopstick Etiquette
Eating with chopsticks are an essential part of Japanese culture and cuisine. While other utensils are used and available, mastering the use of chopsticks is a key part of eating in Japan. Whether a beginner or a novice chopstick user, there are a few things to keep in mind when using chopsticks in Japan. Here... Read More
Omisoka Festival
Taking place just before the Japanese New Years Festival, Omisoka is a significant and important date, occurring on December 31 annually. The holiday is symbolic and the goal is to prepare for the coming year, moving forward in the right direction. There are a variety of customs and traditions, that are often connected to the... Read More
Japanese Floating Lantern Festival – Toro Nagashi
Literally translating to “lantern” and “cruise/float”, respectively, the Japanese Floating Lantern Festival- Toro Nagashi, represents the Japanese concepts of floating paper lanterns down a river. Traditionally, this idea of floating paper lanterns symbolized the guiding of souls, those who have left the physical word and now exist spiritually. History of Toro Nagashi The first ceremony... Read More
Hanamatsuri Festival – Buddha’s Birthday
Traditionally, Hanamatsuri Festival, Buddha’s Birthday is celebrated across East Asia in a variety of different ways. It generally falls in the spring, but depending on where it is celebrated, it can be in April, May or June. It is believed that this particular date coincides with the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, a once Indian prince... Read More
Hanami Festival
Most often referring to cherry blossoms, the Hanami Festival is celebrating the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying flowers. Starting towards the end of March and lasting until the beginning of May, cherry blossoms – sakura, as well as plum trees – ume are in blossom all around the country. This is the ideal time to... Read More
Japanese New Year (Shōgatsu)
One of the most important and influential holidays in Japan, the Japanese New Year, known as Shogatsu or Oshogatsu is celebrated across the country. Taking place on January 1, most businesses close for the celebrations, enabling everyone to partake in the celebration. In Japan, the new year symbolizes a new start and an opportunity to... Read More
Fukuoka
Resting along the northern shore of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka is the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture and the largest city on the island. With a rich history dating back to medieval Japan, the once former residence of daimyo of Chikuzen Province, Fukuoka, now a modern city showcases both the past and the future. From ancient temples... Read More