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Washi : Delicate and strong Japanese paper

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和紙/Washi paper is one of Japan’s most fundamental cultural and artistic products. 和/Wa means Japanese, and 紙/Shi means Paper. Washi has formed the backbone of many Japanese artforms over 1,300 years, and it is registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. The production of hand making paper was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks from China and Korea. Monks made and used paper to write sacred sutras. Japan learned the technique of paper-making and improved it. Washi is made using fibers of the gampi tree, the paper mulberry bush, or the mitsumata shrub. Until the Meiji Period when Japan was westernized and imported mass-produced paper, Washi was the major type of paper in Japan.

Washi is handmade and it involves a long and intricate process. The production of it usually takes place during winter when water is cold and pure without bacteria. Washi production has been a way for farmers to support their income in the cold winter time.

The most commonly used fiber for making Washi is paper mulberry. Branches of the mulberry are boiled and outer barks get taken off. Then they are dried and boiled with lye to remove fat, starch, and tannin. After that, the spent lye is removed in running water and bleached. Washi makers then get rid of remaining impurities in the fibers by hand.

What is Washi used for?

Washi is tough and used in many traditional arts and crafts. 

Printing and writing: Washi is thick and can absorb inks well. It is widely used for printings and paintings including traditional Ukiyo-e paintings and ritual objects for Buddhism and Shintoism.

Art and Interior design: Because Washi is unique in color and delicate, it is used for many art forms such as origami, wall paper, lantern, indoor screens, blinds, wallpaper, etc. 

Bookbinding and bag: Washi is flexible and often used for book covers adding a warm feeling to the reader. Specially coated Washi is used for making bags, purses and even for clothes. 

3 Famous Washi in Japan

Mino Washi

Mino is an area in Gifu prefecture. The high quality paper was first made in this area in 8th century Japan. It was relatively inexpensive, and became widespread throughout Japan. Many monks and powerful lords would visit the area to buy strong, thin, and beautiful Washi of Mino.

Tosa Washi

Tosa is an area in Kochi Prefecture. A combination of traditional techniques and rich natural resources of Kochi (such as the use of water from the Niyodo river, which is said to have the best water in Shikoku island) make it possible to produce amazingly high quality Washi paper. Famous world’s thinnest handmade paper called Kagerou-no-Hane (dragonfly wing) is made here. It is used for the repair work of ancient artwork all over the world. It is only 0.03mm thick.

Echizen Washi

Echizen Washi is produced in Imadate in Fukui prefecture, and it has a history of over 1,500 years. Imadate is a small town surrounded by mountains. There are about 70 local paper factories and studios along the Okamoto River. Echizen Washi is known as one of the most traditional Washi papers in Japan.

Here’s a movie about Mino washi

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Fundamental 基礎の、基盤となる
・Intricate 複雑
・Impurities 不純物
・Income 収入
・Bleach 漂白する
・Relatively 比較的

Thank you for reading today’s post.
See you next time!
Taka

Wagashi : Beautiful Japanese sweets

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和菓子/Wagashi are traditional Japanese confections often served with tea. The roots of Wagashi can be traced back 2,000 years when Japan’s oldest processed food, Mochi (rice cake) was made.

The introduction of green tea from China led the development of Japanese tea ceremony and Wagashi evolved accordingly. A lot of unique Wagashi were created during the Edo period (1603-1867) when there was a national isolation policy, and peace during this time contributed a lot to the improvement. Later in the Meiji period (1868-1912), exchanges with other countries flourished and new kinds of Wagashi were made using modern ovens and other devices from overseas.

Ingredients

There are no set rules concerning what ingredients to be used.
Wagashi are typically made from plant-based ingredients such as beans, peas, rice, rice flour, wheat flour, sugar, agar-agar, chestnuts, sesame, tea, fruits, etc. Animal products are rarely used (the exception is the use of chicken eggs).

Popular Wagashi

Here is a list of typical Wagashi that can be found everywhere in Japan, and some are even sold at food stands during festivals. Different places have different flavours of Wagashi using local products.

・餡蜜/Anmitsu: Chilled agar jelly cubes (called 寒天/Kanten) with fruits and sugar syrup.

・ぼた餅/Botamochi: A sweet rice ball wrapped with あんこ/Anko (Red bean paste).

・草餅/Kusa mochi: A sweet mochi mixed with Japanese mugwort called yomogi. Anko is inside.

・葛餅/Kuzumochi: Rice cakes made of Kuzuko (a starch powder made from the root of the kudzu plant. It is used in many traditional East Asian cuisine) 

・蕨餅/Warabimochi: A jelly-like confection made from Bracken starch covered with きな粉/Kinako, sweet toasted soybean flour powder. 

・饅頭/Manju: Steamed cakes of red bean paste surrounded by a flour mixture.

・団子/Dango: A sweet Japanese dumpling, commonly skewered on a stick (often flavored with soy source).

・どら焼き/Dorayaki: A round and flat Wagashi. Red bean paste is placed in between castella. 

・今川焼き/Imagawayaki: Red bean paste is surrounded inside of hot fried dough. It has a round shape.

・鯛焼き/Taiyaki: It is similar to Imagawayaki, but shaped like a 鯛/Tai fish/sea bream (sea bream is traditionally eaten at celebrations to bring in good luck in Japan).

・金平糖/Kompeito: Crystal, star-shaped sugar candy available in many colors 

・お汁粉/Oshiruko: A hot dessert made from red bean paste in a liquid, soup form, with small rice cakes in it. 

・八ツ橋/Yatsuhashi: Thin sheets of sweetened mochi folded in a triangle, and a ball of red bean paste is inside. Available in different flavors but the most common is cinnamon. 

・羊羹/Yokan: A solid block of red bean paste, hardened with agar and additional sugar.  One of the oldest wagashi and many seasonal ingredients are added inside.

The names of Wagashi are usually made after poetry, natural scenery, or historical events. It takes a lot of work to make wagashi for its delicateness. A sense of the passing time and seasons can be appreciated by the seasonal changes in the Wagashi offered in shops and at events.
For example, a round-rice cake called 鏡餅/Kagami-mochi is placed at home on New year’s day as an offering to a deity, and 菱餅/Hishi-mochi (three differently colored diamond shaped mochi) and 雛あられ/Hina-arare (bite-sized sweet Japanese cracker) are displayed and served on the Doll’s festival (also called Girls’ festival day) in March.
Such traditions are slowly fading, but still an important part of Japanese culture.

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Confection お菓子
・Isolation policy 鎖国政策
・Surrounded by 〜に囲まれた/包まれた
・Skewered  串焼き
・Dough 生地
・Fade 色あせる、消える

Thank you for reading today’s post.
Until next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Sensu, the traditional Japanese fan

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扇子/Sensu is a folding fan invented in Japan, with the date ranging from the 6th to 9th centuries. In old days, they were simply called 扇/Ougi. Japanese folding fans were originally made as court fans, and only people in high ranks were able to obtain them and they were tools to signify social standing, and often used during art performances like traditional dances. During war times in Japan, commanders would send samurais signals using fans. 

Today, Japanese fans are most typically used to keep cool during the hot and humid Japanese summer times, and they remain as an important artistic tool and stylish fashion accessory as well.

According to the historical record of the Song Dynasty (950-1279), the Japanese monk Chonen gifted folding fans to the emperor of China in 988. Later in the 16th century, Japanese foldable fans were imported to Europe and became popular in Spain and then in other countries around.

Folding fans were typically crafted from bamboo and paper (expensive ones have Japanese 和紙/Washi paper). Japanese cypress known as Hinoki was used for traditional ones, and silk for the fancy fans. 

Sensu were usually made for right-handed people, meaning you can spread a fan by opening from left to right. If you do the other way around, you will break the fan so be careful!

Other fans

うちわ/Uchiwa

Also known as a fixed fan, Uchiwa fans are traditionally circular and made from paper and bamboo. These days however, plastic and paper are common materials. In addition to the regular use, you will often see Uchiwa fans during summer festivals as accessories and also for Bon dance performances.

飾り扇子/Kazari Sensu

Kazari Sensu are folding fans made for the interior decoration, especially for traditional Japanese tatami houses. Fine ones are hand made and have beautiful, flashy paintings on expensive Japanese Washi paper, and sometimes used for occasions like weddings to bring in good fortune. Although the main purpose is to display, they can be used like regular folding fans.

Folding ones are popular souvenirs. If you want to be creative, you could try making one for yourself at home!

Japanese fans are great tools for hot summer days and now that we have to wear masks at all times, using them is a great way to cool down.
Have yourself a portable fan and enjoy the summer!

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Invent 開発する、作り出す
・Signify 意味する、示す
・Fancy 手が込んだ、派手な
・Typically 大抵
・the other way around 逆のやり方で
・Souvenir お土産

Thank you for reading today’s post. 
See you next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Yokai : Legendary creatures from Japan

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Every country has some kind of scary folktales, and Japan is no exception. 妖怪/Yokai, are Japanese supernatural monsters, demons, and spirits often appear in Japanese folktales. They have emotions and personalities, and can also be called Obake, Mamono, Mononoke or Ayakashi. While most Yokai are considered evil for making troubles, there are a few that are believed to bring good fortune to those who encounter them (Good Yokai/Spirits are called Nigi-mitama. They are believed to be the spirits of respected ancestors and animals or sacred objects, and often appear with greenish aura around them. Evil spirits are called Ara-mitama. They could be turned into good ones by calming them down). Yokai usually have spiritual/supernatural abilities and some could possess people, animals, and objects. It is also believed that most Yokai can change their appearance (this is called 変化/Henge).

Famous Yokai

Above is Tengu

鬼/Oni

Oni are demons with horns and fangs. They are usually in red, blue, or green and look musculine like armies of hell. Each of them has a heavy hammer to kill humans to eat.

天狗/Tengu

Tengu are a kind of legendary creature/demon that takes the forms of birds of prey. In many stories, they have a human-like appearance with wings and red faces with long noses. They are dangerous spirits of mountains and forests, and it is also believed that evil people turn into Tengu after death to disturb the peace causing troubles such as attacking humans, robbing temples, and possessing women to seduce holy men.

かっぱ/Kappa

Kappa are human-like turtles living in rivers, swamps, or lakes, and they are excellent in swimming. It is said that they have the powers to control water and can cause river floods. They can be aggressive and may attack humans and eat them. However, if you show some respect by offering their favorite food like cucumbers, they will be friendly.
Cucumber sushi is called Kappa-maki by the way.

酒呑童子/Shuten douji

Shuten douji was a leader of demons and the strongest Oni of Japan that lived in Kyoto abducting a lot of young women. Shuten douji means “Sake-drinking lad”. Knowing that this Oni loved Sake, a hero Minamoto Raiko offered a poisoned Sake and killed him.

玉藻御前/Tamamo-no-Mae

According to a legend, Tamamo-no-Mae was the nine-tail fox that appeared in Japan as the most favored courtesan of Emperor Toba (1103 – 1156, 74th Emperor of Japan). She made the Emperor to be ill and caused chaos (It is also believed that this nine-tail fox first appeared in China as a concubine and ended many dynasties in China and also in India and later came to Japan). An astrologer, Abe no Yasuchika was called there to find the cause of the emperor’s illness and he found the evil fox disguising as the lady. The nine-tail fox acted violently but was killed a few years later in Nasu in Tochigi prefecture.

座敷童/Zashiki Warashi

Zashiki Warashi are good Yokai. If you see footprints or hear footsteps of a child inside or around your residence, that may be because of Zashiki Warashi. They are guardians of the house and believed to bring good fortune. This Yokai looks like a child and it enjoys playing harmless tricks like making noises or music to surprise people, just like a real child playing.

Yokai is said to be created as personifications of supernatural phenomena. In the Edo period, many artists made new Yokai by taking inspiration from tales or using their own imagination. A lot of Yokai were painted in Ukiyo-e art at that time. It’s really fun to enjoy the artworks and study legends about invisible monsters of the past … or maybe there are a lot of Yokai still here living with us. 

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Folktale 民話
・Possess 持つ、憑依する
・Rob 奪う
・Act violently 暴れる
・Residence 住居
・Supernatural 超自然的

Thank you for reading today’s post!
Until next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Wabi-Sabi : The Japanese Aesthetics

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What is Wabi-Sabi?

It is very hard to put the exact meanings of Wabi-Sabi into words, but it is basically a Japanese aesthetic concept, which is centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection by acknowledging “Nothing lasts, nothing is complete, and nothing is perfect”. Wabi-Sabi mind is unpretentious and connected to nature.

侘び寂び/Wabi-Sabi is a combination of two separate ways of seeing the world: Wabi is about the beauty in nature and to appreciate it in humble simplicity. Sabi is about the beauty of the impermanence of aging, the flow of the time and the seasons, and the aspect of imperfect reliability acknowledging that nothing stays the same.

For centuries, Wabi-Sabi has been practised in Japan and it is the basic idea behind traditional Japanese art works, architectures, crafts, etc. Things that are imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete like the nature itself has been considered as the most powerful and beautiful. Thus, traditional artists prefered simple images with less artificial effects, and left blank spaces intentionally as you can see in many Japanese scroll paintings. Interestingly, the concept contrasts the classical western notion of beauty, in which something perfect, monumental, and enduring has been considered as elegant.

Influence of Buddhism

The underlying idea behind Wabi-Sabi is the Buddhist teachings called 三法印/Sanpouin, which was introduced to Japan from China. The important three teachings of it are as below:

無常/Mujo, Impermanence: It is to understand and accept that nothing stays unchanged in life. You need to go through the rise and fall in life and even the ones you are deeply in love will have to leave this world at some point.

苦/Ku, Suffering: It is to acknowledge “To live is to suffer”. Life is hard and there are a lot of obstacles out there and within yourself. But at the same time, sufferings can lead to growth if you understand the cause and face it.

空/Kuu, Emptiness or Absence of Self: It is to know that being empty is important as it creates a lot more space and help you see the world as it is without interferences. The idea is similar to the concept of today’s minimalism movement.

Understanding these was honored especially among the Japanese nobilities and it is still practiced widely in Japan.
In a way, Wabi-Sabi is a mind training. The learners practice to find the core, basic beauty in nature and in everyday life, which is also an important aspect of Zen Buddhism. By applying the idea, one can achieve liberation from the material world and transcendence to a simpler life. Wabi-Sabi is on nonverbal terms so practitioners can not reach the genuine understanding of it without putting the concept in practice or making art works. 

We live in a state of constant longings and competitions with others, always being dissatisfied and stressed. It’s hard to take a break or step back and appreciate what we have right now. The Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi can teach us how to sort things out and find what really is important. Wabi-Sabi continues to inspire us today. 

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Aesthetic 美学、美の
・Acknowledge 認識する
・Unpretentious 控えめな
・Impermanent 永久的でない、一時的な
・Liberation from 〜からの解放
・Transcendence 超越

Thank you for reading today’s post!
See you next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Ikebana : Flower arrangement in Japan

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生花/Ikebana is a traditional flower arrangement. The word is from the Japanese 生ける/Ikeru (to arrange flowers, have life, be living) and 花/Hana (Flower), and it is also known as 華道/Kadou. Ikebana aims to bring out the inner qualities of flowers and express the harmony between nature and humanity considering colors, lines, forms, spaces, and time.

History of Ikebana

When Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the 6th century from China and Korea, offering flowers to statues of the Buddha became common. Unlike India, where lotus was widely used, other native flowers for each season were used for this purpose in Japan. This practice is believed to be the origin of flower arrangement in Japan, though at that time there were no meanings or systems. Later on, central flower arrangement named Shin-no-hana started : In the middle, a huge branch of pine or cryptomeria was used, and 3 or 5 seasonable flowers were places around it.
That was the first attempt to represent natural scenery.

The styles of ikebana we see today were perfected in the Muromachi period (1336-1573) with the development of the 書院造/Shoin-zukuri (a style of Japanese houses used in the mansions of the military, temple guest halls, and as a place to train Zen. Floors in the residents are covered with tattami) architectural style. As the interior decorations, 掛物/Kakemono (scroll pictures) and flower arrangements in vases became popular. The practice of Ikebana flourished with the combination of belief systems of Buddhism along with 依代/Yorishiro (objects that divine spirits are summoned to) of Shintoism.

The flower arrangement became a fine art and mental training for lords and a Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa (1436-1490) spread the custom widely. He was so into art like tea ceremony and Ikebana that he even built a temple in Kyoto known as Ginkaku-ji, where he could focus on his studies.

Soami, a friend of Yoshimasa and a painter, conceived the idea of expressing three elements of heaven, human, and earth through Ikebana and that concept is still practiced today.
Under the influence of Buddhist tea masters, Ikebana has grown over the centuries, and there are over 2,000 ikebana schools now.

How flowers are arranged

Arrangements are often mounted in a vase, though this is not always the case. The surface of the water is considered as the surface of the earth from which plants stand. Ikebana often emphasizes areas of the plant such as its stems, leave, shape, line and form. Ikebana artists express through the combination of colors, shapes, lines, and the implied meanings. To reflect the beauty of the nature, applying minimalism without designing too much is considered to be a virtue.  

Artists need to think about the appropriate arrangements for occasions as well. For example, for a flower offering at death, they should use white flowers to express peace. If they give flowers as gifts, they need to choose flowers in bud, so that the person receiving can enjoy seeing them open.

Ikebana teaches a lot to the one who practices it : He/She can feel close to the nature, relax mind and learn to become more patient. Now that we live in a very hectic and stressful time, practitioners say it provides peace of mind, body, and soul. If you are in Japan, you can find many schools listed on the internet by just searching. If you are not here and would like to learn online, I can introduce a teacher so just send me a message to : [email protected]

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Humanity 人間性
・be perfected 完成される
・Architectural 建物の
・Elements 要素
・Imply ほのめかす
・Virtue 美徳

Thank you for reading today’s post. 
Until next time!
Taka 

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Obon : Summer festival time in Japan

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What is Obon?

お盆/Obon is an annual Japanese holiday/festival in the summer.
It is originally a Japanese Buddhist custom, which has been celebrated in Japan over 500 years. Obon is to commemorate and remember deceased ancestors and it is believed that their spirits return this time of the year to visit the relatives. During Obon season, people return to ancestral family places to visit ancestors’ graves and give some food offerings.
Family members get together and many summer festivals are held where people perform traditional dance known as 盆踊り/Bon Odori under the light of lanterns (it is believed that the fires will be a guide for ancestors to find where the relatives are).

When is it?

Obon is typically celebrated from Aug 13 to 15, but the dates may vary depending on the region of Japan.
In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the calendar system was changed to the Gregorian calendar and some areas change the date for Obon based on the new calendar while other places didn’t. Therefore, we see Obon in July in eastern Japan (such as Tokyo, Yokohama, etc), and on the 15th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar in other places (between Aug 8 and Sep 7. This can be seen in the northern part of the Kanto area, Chugoku, Shikoku, and Okinawa).
Obon is a traditional event and not an official holiday, but many people take some days off and close businesses to see relatives, be thankful to ancestors, and enjoy the summer.

Origin

Obon is based on a legend about a Buddhist monk named Maudgalyāyana (and Obon festival is originated from the Ghost Festival of China). He used his supernatural power to look in the world after death and found his deceased mother there, who was suffering because of the hungry ghosts around her.
He asked Buddha for help and Buddha told him to give offerings to Buddhist monks who had completed their summer retreat on the 15th day of the 7th month.
This worked and his mother was released. And then he danced in celebration making a large circle with others. This dance became Bon Dance.

About Bon Dance

Obon takes place in the hot summer, so people wear 浴衣/Yukata (light cotton Kimono) to join and enjoy the festival and Bon Dance. The style of Bon Dance varies from region to region. The typical Bon dance involves people gather in a circle around やぐら/Yagura, a high scaffold. It is also used as the bandstand for the musicians of Bon music. People dance in clockwise or counterclockwise around Yagura and sometimes move towards and away from it. Ohara Matsuri in Kagoshima and Awa Odori in Tokushima areas have different style: people proceed in a straight line and go through the streets like a parade, playing music and dancing to it.

Each region has a local dance style, as well as different music. In Hokkaido, ソーラン節/Soran Bushi, is performed. People dance acting like fishermen trying to catch fish using nets. Gujo in Gifu prefecture, is famous for Gujo Odori, which is the all night dancing celebration.

Many different kinds of music is played during dance performances including traditional festival music, folk music, some modern popular music, and 演歌/Enka (sort of like the Japanese blues/Folk music. Singers sing about the nostalgia and determination in life).

Can everyone join the festival?

The religious meaning of Obon season has faded and it is celebrated more of a fun summer festival nowadays. Even if you are a tourist from a different country, you are welcome to join. You can enjoy the feel of it if you attend wearing Yukata, but that is not a must.
But note that you may need to be a member of the performers to join some Bon dance, so if you would like to participate in the dancing, check in advance or ask someone there.

This year, a lot of summer events have already been cancelled because of the coronavirus. I hope festivals will be held next time and I would like to see many people enjoying the summer in 2021!

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Deceased 故人
・Ancestor 祖先
・Relatives 親族
・Clockwise 時計回り
・Religious 宗教の
・In advance 事前に

Thank you for reading today’s post.
See you next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Honne & Tatemae : How the Japanese people behave in public

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Japanese Person: Come visit my place. We should get together sometime!（いつでも遊びに来てください/Itsudemo asobini kite kudasai）

You: We should! Let me know when. 

Japanese Person: Sure!

Then, you wait and wait but the Japanese person never invites you…

In Japan, this kind of communication sometimes occur. If you don’t know much about the Japanese culture, I’m sure you will be confused and wonder why do the Japanese do that. Are the Japanese people being rude by telling lies? Are they hiding things from you? Well, the truth is, “Come visit/You should visit sometime” is often said just to be polite, and it is not a real invitation. 

This is called 本音と建前/Honne & Tatemae in Japanese. 本音/Honne are the person’s true feelings and desires, and 建前/Tatemae, are the opinions and behaviors one displays in public. It seems complicated, but actually it is nothing new and a totally common way of behaving in cultures anywhere in the world.

Why do the Japanese behave like that?

In Japanese culture, people often avoid direct confrontation or disagreement in public because disapproval of others are seen as shame and that could lower the social standing.

Therefore, Honne are often kept hidden as they may be contrary to what is expected by society or what is required according to one’s position and circumstances.

Japan is an island nation with the population density of about 347 persons per km² (and about 6,157 persons in Tokyo). To make sure that the society works smoothly, people need to act formally caring others and avoiding conflicts as much as possible. Failure to do so might be seen as aggressive or insulting. By applying Tatemae behavior, one is socially protected and considered as being part of the society (and this explains why the Japanese prefer to work in groups rather than individually). Tatemae is what is expected by society, so it may or may not match one’s Honne and that is the reason why sometimes people tell lies (but assuming that the person listening to them know that they are just Tatemae, and people have no intention of hurting others by using Tatemae) to avoid exposing the true feelings. In a way, the Japanese are doing so to be polite in public.

Every culture has some aspects of Honne and Tatemae, or private mind and public mind in English. In order to look nice and maybe to get promoted, business workers in many countries don’t freely express personal thoughts and feelings to their boss, and in this era of massive amount of information and thinking how quickly one post goes viral on SNS, people are careful as to the amount and kind of information they share in order not to offend or hurt the others out there.

If you are stressed…

So, it is a mistake to simply conclude that the Japanese are two-faced and rude. Honne & Tatemae is a natural behavior in a very small collective society where a greater extent to avoid conflict with other people is needed. However, this can be very stressful especially for people from other countries. Even I, a Japanese person who grew up in Tokyo, got really stressed out when I came back from the U.S.
Everytime you talk to someone in public, you need to read his and her minds and judge if what they said was Honne or Tatemae. I would go like, why don’t everyone just use Honne!

Here’s a tip if you are tired about all this: Don’t take things personally, and get to know your colleagues/friends better. Building personal relationships outside of the office/school will make a huge difference. You can hear what people really think and see the true characters of them. If you like drinking, do not miss a chance to go to Izakaya (Japanese pub) together in a smaller group. If you don’t drink, you could join some kind of event together. You will be surprised how openly they talk compared to the way they behave in public. 
I’m a representative of an organisation called Family Planet Japan which supports foreign workers and residents in Japan. If you feel lonely, stressed, or need any help, feel free to contact us : [email protected] (This is not Tatemae by the way lol).

Today’s words and phrases
今日の単語/フレーズ

・Occur 起きる
・Disagreement 反対
・Density 密度
・Insulting 侮辱的な
・Go viral 情報が半端に共有される
・Take things personally 物事を個人的に受け取る

Thank you for reading today’s post.
Until next time!
Taka

The Japanese Zodiac sign : What it says about you?

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What is the Japanese Zodiac sign?

The Japanese zodiac (十二支/Junishi) is based on Chinese Zodiac and is divided into 12 blocks with each block containing a group of years. Reading of the Zodiac is popular not only in Japan but also in many Asian countries such as Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.  

It is said that this type of Zodiac reading was already there in 1600 BC in China, and there is a famous story about the origin of it.

Long time ago, God (some say that it was Buddha) gathered 12 animals to create the zodiac. He told animals to meet on Jan 1st and the selection would be in accordance with the order in which they would arrive. Cat came late there and did not know what was going on. Mouse told Cat a lie and said that there would be a meeting for making the zodiac on Jan 2nd.
On Jan 1st, Cow, being the slowest of all, woke up early and started the race first to win. The mouse hid on the cow and just before the cow was getting in front of the God, the mouse jumped off and became the first to arrive.
Then the Cow, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig followed. When the cat arrived (he was too late to be added to the list), he knew that he had been fooled by the mouse and that is how he began to chase the mouse to this day swearing that he would never forgive the mouse.

Every year is represented by a different zodiac sign/animal, and it is believed that we can read a person’s personality or events in their life as well as the relationships with others. The zodiac begins with the sign of the Rat and go around as below, and an animal sign is assigned to a person based on the year in which he/she was born

1.子/Ne: Rat               
Born in 2020, 2008, 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948, 1936, 1924, 1912. 

2.丑/Ushi: Ox             
Born in 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949, 1937, 1925, 1913.

3.寅/Tora: Tiger          
Born in 2010, 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950, 1938, 1926, 1914. 

4.卯/U: Rabbit    
Born in 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, 1927, 1915. 

5.辰/Tatsu: Dragon
Born in  2012, 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952, 1940, 1928, 1916. 

6.巳/Mi: Snake
Born in 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, 1929, 1917. 

7.午/Uma: Horse
Born in 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942, 1930, 1918, 1906. 

8.未/Hitsuji: Sheep
Born in 2015, 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955, 1943, 1931, 1919, 1907. 

9.申/Saru: Monkey
Born in 2016, 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956, 1944, 1932, 1920, 1908. 

10.酉/Tori: Rooster
Born in 2017, 2005, 1981, 1969, 1957, 1945, 1933, 1921, 1909. 

11.戌/Inu: Dog
Born in 2018, 2006, 1982, 1970, 1958, 1946, 1934, 1922, 1910.

12.亥/Inoshishi: Boar
Born in 2019, 2007, 1983, 1971, 1959, 1947, 1935, 1923, 1911.

Personalities and Compativility

There are a lot of variations and different rules to read zodiac signs, but below are the general characteristic of people based on the Zodiac reading.

Rat 
They are good at adapting themselves and very cautious. They are clever and plan things out well. They have a capacity for pursuing a course to its end, but can be short-tempered.

Best with : Ox, Dragon, Monkey
Not good with : Horse, Sheep, Rabbit

Ox
Although they seem to be lazy, they are deep thinkers and very patient. They won’t make complains and have strong will power.
But once they get upset, they go out of control.

Best with : Rat, Snake, Rooster
Not good with : Sheep, Horse, Dog

Tiger 
They are very active and they like trying something new. They are positive and don’t get depressed much. They are courageous but sometimes they can be seen that they are selfish and mean.

Best with : Dog, Sheep, Boar 
Not good with : Monkey, Snake

Rabbit
They are charming and can be very popular. They are smooth talkers and good at increasing social circles but sometimes try too many things randomly, so people around might think they are mysterious or trustless.

Best with : Dog, Sheep, Boar
Not good with : Rooster, Dragon, Monkey

Dragon
They are brave and can inspire others by achieving something innovative. Very energetic but the feeling goes up and down like a roller coaster, and many people with this sign have dramatic life.

Best with : Mouse, Monkey
Not good with : Dog, Rabbit, other Dragons

Snake
They are very calm and tend to keep some distance from people around them. They are smart and can pay attention to details. Once they are determined in what they do, they won’t give up till they achieve it.

Best with : Monkey, Ox, Rooster
Not good with : Boar, Tiger, Monkey

Horse
They are friendly and open-minded, so they have a lot of companions. They like to challenge things but can lose interest very quickly. They are warm-hearted but can be easily deceived. 

Best with : Tiger, Dog
Not good with : Mouse, Sheep, other Horses

Sheep 
They don’t like conflicts and hardly ever get angry. They are honest and good at building relationships with people around, but can be too anxious and don’t like taking risks.

Best with : Horse, Rabbit, Boar
Not good with : Mouse, Ox

Monkey 
They like to be popula. They are intuitive but at the same time clever, so they can act/work very efficiently. But they can be too flashy and arrogant sometimes.

Best with : Snake, Mouse, Dragon
Not good with : Tiger, Boar

Rooster 
It is said that people with this sign have good luck. They can live well based on their instincts and they are passionate. They hate to lose and can be over-competitive sometimes.

Best with : Dragon, Ox, Snake
Not good with : Dog, other Roosters

Dog 
They have a sense of duty and loyalty, and they like to help others. They have a strong sense of justice and try to do things right but they are not flexible. 

Best with : Rabbit, Tiger, Horse
Not good with : Dragon, Rooster, Ox, Sheep

Boar 
They are very determined and self-disciplined. They are honest, brave, serious, and strict but a little clumsy and can be sensitive.

Best with : Tiger, Rabbit, Sheep
Not good with : Snake, Monkey, other Boars

It is fun to read the zodiac sings and think about relationships between people around. Japan has another interesting theory on personality : Blood type personality. I wrote about it on another post so please take a look if you are interested :https://hidanotaka.com/blood-type-personality-theory-in-japanwhat-it-says-about-you/

Today’s words and phrases 今日の単語/フレーズ

・Zodiac sign  干支、星座
・Swear 　誓う
・In accordance with 〜に従って
・Compatibility　相性
・Instinct　本能
・Flexible　柔軟性のある

Thank you for reading today’s post. 
Until next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me: [email protected]

What is Sumo? : All you need to know

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Sumo, written as 相撲 (meaning “Striking on another”) in Japanese, is a traditional wrestling and is the Japan’s national sport.
Japan is the only country that has professional tournaments and it has been one of the most popular sports here for a long time.
Let’s learn the history and the rules about it and enjoy the unique culture of Japan!

History

It is believed that Sumo originated as a way to wish for a good harvest by entertaining the Shinto deities. The first mention of sumo can be found in a manuscript from 712. According to the folktale written in it, there was a match between two Shinto deities (or 神/Kami in Japanese) called Takemikazuchi (the ruler of the common people) and Takeminakata (the god of wind, water, and agriculture) to find which was stronger and suitable for ruling lands. At the end, Takemikazuchi won the mach and claimed Takeminakata’s land for his Kami. 

Then, it became a culture to show strength in front of them as a sign of respect and in hope of bringing a good harvest.
First as an ritual dance, then as a combat between two men.

Until the Japanese Middle Ages (1185-1603), there weren’t much regulations and the wrestling matches were rough. Wrestlers often fought to the death of one of the fighters like gladiators.
Sumo became so popular especially within the Imperial court that it was regularly held and ceremonial and religious elements were added.

During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), many training Samurais joined Sumo wrestling to strengthen their combat abilities. By the Muromachi period (1336-1573), Sumo became a huge event for the masses as the 大名 (Daimyo, powerful Feudal lords) sponsored wrestlers. During this period, some rules regarding the match were established including the use of 土俵 (Dohyo. It is 4.55m in diameter and 16.26 m2 in area, and is made of clay and covered in a layer of sand ) as an elevated ring for the battle.

In the Edo period (1603-1867), Sumo fights were banned because they could lead to wild fightings on the streets. However in 1684, it was allowed to be held as a charity event at Shinto shrines. In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the Emperor Meiji organized a tournament and the length of tournaments was extended from 10 days to 15 days in 1949. 

Today, professional sumo holds six grand tournaments a year (3 in Tokyo during January, May and September, 1 each in Osaka in March, Nagoya in July and Fukuoka in November). Each tournament lasts 15 days, and currently only men do the sport professionally in Japan. 

Customs and Rules

Sumo developed from Shinto rituals, so it has the ritualistic characteristics. The wrestlers stomp their feet on the ring to ward off evil and throw salt onto the ring before a match to purify the ring. 

The rules are straightforward. 力士 (Rikishi/wrestler) tries to force his opponent out of a 土俵 or into touching the ground with any body part other than the soles of his feet. A match usually lasts only a few seconds, but in rare cases it continues for minutes. There are no weight restrictions in Sumo, so wrestlers train themselves and try to gain as much as they can. There’s a special kind food for their diet called ちゃんこ鍋 (Chanko-nabe), which is a protein-rich Japanese hot-pot designed to help them gain weight. Many ingredients such as fish, meat, shells, and vegetables are in a broth and it comes in a large portion.  

About Rankings

There is a ranking system called 番付(Banzuke), and all wrestlers are classified depending on their performances. The top two divisions are called 幕内(Makuuchi) and 十両(Juryo), and they are like major leagues. Wrestlers in these 2 divisions are called 関取(Sekitori), and they are considered as fully-qualified fighters. The best rank of 幕内 is 横綱(Yokozuna), and then 大関(Ozeki), 関脇(Sekiwake), 小結(Komusubi), and 前頭(Maegashira). 横綱 is never demoted but if he keeps on losing matches he has to retire and leave the position.

Where to enjoy Sumo

It is the best to attend a sumo tournament to fully enjoy the matches. Tickets are available during the 15-day tournaments. You can purchase tickets in advance online or at convenience stores or at the stadiums. 両国国技館(Ryougoku Kokugikan) in Tokyo is the most famous venue.

Right now, Sumo matches are held with less spectators to avoid the spread of coronavirus. It is really sad that we can’t enjoy it in an arena.
I do hope the current situation will be over soon…

Thank you for reading today’s post!
See you next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Why do Japanese do Seiza?

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The word Seiza (正座)  literally means “Proper sitting”. It is the formal, polite way of sitting on Japanese tatami floors with knees together, back strait ,and buttocks resting on ankles. Even for Japanese, it takes a practice to get used to sitting in this posture and Seiza can be very painful for anyone who is not accustomed to it. So, why do Japanese people sit this way in Japanese houses? Is there a meaning?

What meant “To sit” in Japan

If you take a close look at the Kanji, you can learn history behind sitting culture in Japan. 正 means “The right way”, and the Kanji 座 (Sit) is composed of 4 parts: 广(Roof)＋人(human)＋人(human)＋土(Ground/Soil), signifying 2 people sitting face to face on the ground in a house. That means, the right way of sitting in Japan inside of a house has been sitting on the floor/ground with the eyes about the same level to the one you are talking to, without using any furniture. But isn’t it easier to use chairs? Why do we sit the hard way?

How did Seiza-style became the formal, right way of sitting?

The reason why we didn’t use chairs was to avoid damaging tatami mattress, which has been the essential part of Japanese traditional houses (though we see some special kinds of chairs that won’t damage tatami at Japanese inns nowadays). This thick straw mat has good breathability and is important to prevent mold to grow in a humid country like Japan. Tatami was and still is expensive ,and back then it was only used as seating for the highest aristocrats ,so rules concerning seating and etiquette were made. By the middle of the Edo period, Samurais sat in Seiza when meeting authority figures as a symbol of obedience and loyalty, and Seiza meant the respectful way to sit on Tatami. Because of this tradition, we do Seiza especially in a formal settings like at an official tea ceremony, Japanese style wedding, Noh drama, Shodo (Calligraphy), Ikebana practice (Flower arranging), or funeral. Also, it is a requirement of most Japanese martial arts to sit in this manner.

Don’t worry if you can’t do Seiza in Japan!

We know that if you are from a different country, it is very difficult to sit this way for a long time. And some people are physically impossible to do Seiza ,so nowadays it is OK not to do it even in a formal setting.
But you don’t want to be rude ,so here are some tips when you can’t do Seiza in a formal situation.
If you are not used to sitting down in Seiza position, it’s ok to have knees a little bit apart or you may sit with a cross-legged position called Agura. It is informal but acceptable especially when you eat at a low table in a Japanese restaurant.

This is Agura style

For women, Agura is generally considered wrong and rude especially for those who are wearing skirts or certain types of traditional clothing like Kimono. Instead, Yokozuwari, one side (or both sides) of hips touching the floor, is preferred.

This is Yokozuwari style.

Even if you CAN do Seiza, you should take a break every 30 min or so to avoid decreasing blood flow. While keeping the beautiful tradition of showing respect, it is also important not to overdo it to take care of your body. 

Seiza has been taught at home and schools traditionally, but taking people’s health into consideration, a new law came into effect this year. According to Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, forcing children to do Seiza for extended periods of time will be recognized as a punishment. It is not mandatory to do Seiza anymore, and you can still be respectful without doing it so don’t worry if you can’t!

Thank you for reading today’s post!
If there’s anything you want to know about Japan, feel free to contact: [email protected]

See you next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my music below.

Bento boxes can make your life easier!

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Lunch box (or Bento in Japanese) is a single-portion, home-packed meal, or take-out meal popular in Asian countries. Now that many stores and restaurants are not open like they used to, making lunch box might be a great way to shift your lifestyle! Here’s some info about it.

Great things about using lunch boxes

Using a lunch box, you can save the amount of money and time you spend for lunch break. You won’t need to look for a restaurant that is open and safe, and waste money for buying food outside. In addition, you can make sure that the food you are eating is safe and good for your health because you know what’s inside. Furthermore, you can use your time at home wisely by preparing a large portion at home and carry some leftovers for lunch. Making Lunch boxes might be one of the best solutions to do well in the era of coronavirus!

Types of Lunch boxes

Containers range from disposable, plastic, wooden, to stainless steel. The one I recommend is a stainless steel bento box. It is tough and easy to clean. Also, it can keep food warm and look simple and cool. Anyone from kids to adults can use and carry it to school or office easily and it’s eco-friendly as well.

Bento box in Japan

Traditional Bento usually includes rice, fish, or noodles, with pickled and cooked vegetables and salad. It is widely available throughout Japan. You can easily find one at a convenience store, a supermarket ,or at a station. Many different kinds of containers are available including hand-crafted lacquerware.

In a family, homemaker usually prepares Bento for husband or kids in the morning. Some even try making Character Bento (called Charaben) which is a style of arranged Bento that features food decorated to look like characters from manga, animals, people, and so on. Now that SNS is a popular tool, amazingly made Charaben sometimes go on viral.

Speaking of Bento boxes, there is a special kind of Japanese lacquerware bento box in the area where I am (Takayama city of Gifu prefecture). It is Hida Shunkei Bento Box. Shunkei-nuri, which is made of a thin board created from lumber by original technique, is used to make this kind of beautiful red, brownish bento box. If you are interested in getting one, I can find and send it for you so let me know!

Hida Shunkei Bento box

There’s always a way to make your daily life better.
I will keep on posting info about Japan and its culture ,so come visit this site when you get bored staying at home all day!

See you next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me to [email protected] . 

What is City Pop?

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Hi, how’s everything?  
I guess most people in the world spend majority of the time at home nowadays, so I wrote about Japanese music that can make your time in the house more interesting. It is kind of an old style of music, but we can still get inspired by the sound of it. 
And I heard a news that City Pop was becoming popular in the western countries last year. It seems that the genre is regaining the popularity and kind of a trend now. Here is about City Pop!

What is it?

As Jon Blistein of Rolling Stone said that City Pop was “Not a strict genre term but a broad vibe classification”, City Pop is about the urban, futuristic feeling of 70’s to 80’s in Japan, and the word simply meant, “Music made by city people”. It is western influenced Japanese pop music that was popular during bubble economy time in Japan including a wide range of styles such as Funk, R&B, Soft Rock, and some even included Jazz Fusion, Latin, or Caribbean elements. During that time in Japan, new devices and electronics like Walkman, Cassette Decks, and FM Stereos were hip gadgets and the music style was associated with those emerging technologies. Young people were enjoying modern lifestyle listening to City Pop that had the latest sounds of electronic musical instruments.

Recommended artists

Tatsuro Yamashita 

He was among the most successful artists of City Pop music. Rolling Stone Japan ranked his album Spacy number 14 on a list of the greatest Japanese music albums of all time in 2007.

Haruomi Hosono

He is a famous composer, singer, and record producer and he is one of the most influential pop music artists in Japan. Using electronic sounds, he contributed a lot to City Pop and numerous electric genres.

Mariya Takeuchi

She is one of the most popular pop singers in Japan. Over 16 million records were sold so far, and her early work during 70’s and 80’ is largely associated with City Pop. She’s wife of Tatsuro Yamashita.

I love listening to various kinds of music from different times imagining what people were thinking and doing. Music takes you back to the era and I think it is great that we can feel the atmosphere at anytime, anywhere just by playing it. When you get bored at home, I recommend that you dig some music that you don’t usually listen to!

Have a great day!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me: [email protected]

3 easy steps to use chopsticks (and 9 don’ts)

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Chopsticks were originally from China, and they became popular in Japan and Korea by 500 A.D. Back then, people used chopsticks made from trees and bamboos but nowadays we see many different kinds of them.
Japanese chopsticks are generally shorter than Chinese or Korean chopsticks and we use them when we eat Asian cuisines (and sometimes even when we have food from western countries).
They are hard to use at first but once you get used to them, you will be amazed to know how useful they are.
Here is the easy, 3 steps guide on how to use chopsticks.

3 easy steps to use chopsticks

1.Hold the lower chopstick

Put the lower chopstick under your thumb, resting it on palm.
The end of your lower chopstick should be sticking out about 1 inch.

2.Hold the upper chopstick

Lightly grip the upper chopstick with your thumb, index, and middle fingers just like holding a pencil.
The tips of chopsticks need to be lined up.

lower chopstick

3.Move the upper chopstick to pick up food

Lower chopstick remains stationary, and only upper one is moved to pinch and control the food. Be careful not to cross them or force too much.

chopsticks

Etiquette while using chopsticks

Not everyone follow these rules strictly these days, but it is always good to know manners to show your politeness.
Here are 9 things you should avoid doing while using chopsticks in Japan.

1.刺し箸/Sashi Bashi

Do not stub food with chopsticks.
There is another Sashi Bashi with different writing, “差し箸” ,which is to point someone with your chopsticks. This is also considered rude.

2.握り箸/Nigiri Bashi

Do not use chopsticks grabbing.

3.くわえ箸/Kuwae Bashi

Do not hold your chopsticks in your mouth.

4.立て箸/Tate Bashi

Do not leave chopsticks vertically in the bowl of rice as this is only done at the funeral as an offering to the deceased.

5.箸渡し/Hashi watashi

Passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another is rude as this is related to a funeral.
This is done when placing the bone of the deceased in a cinerary urn.

6.舐り箸/Neburi Bashi

Do not lick or suck on your chopsticks.

7.探り箸/Saguri Bashi

Do not use chopsticks to sift through the contents of a dish (or dishes) in search of something. This is considered greedy and rude.

8.寄せ箸/Yose Bashi

Do not pull a dish using chopsticks.

9.叩き箸/Tataki Bashi

Do not play with chopsticks like drumming.

It is also important to place chopsticks across your plate or dish after eating. This is the sign to tell that you are done eating and show appreciation to the one(s) who prepared your meal.

Many restaurants and markets in Japan provide you with a pair of wooden chopsticks that need to be broken apart.
They are called waribashi (割り箸). These are disposable ones.
If they are in a plastic bag, be careful when opening it.
There is usually a tiny toothpick with them and you may hurt yourself if you don’t know it!

Enjoy your Asian food with chopsticks!
See you next time,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

23 important events/holidays in Japan

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How’s it going? It is the rainy season in Japan now, but it’s already getting hot! It feels like summer already.
Any plans for the summer this year?
I’m thinking about traveling a lot!

This time I wrote about some of the most important annual events and national holidays in Japan.
Hope this article will help you understand more about my country and culture!

In Japan, when a national holiday is on Sunday, the following Monday will be a holiday and a day between holidays will also be a holiday.

Some events below are from western countries and you can see how much we are influenced by different cultures (but at the same time we do keep some traditional events, which is very cool I think!).

January 1st  
正月/Shogatsu
New year Day

Jan 1st is the first day of the new year in Japan and many businesses are closed until Jan 3rd. Most people go back to their parents’ place and celebrate eating Osechi (An assortment of small dishes. Each dish has meaning, and people traditionally eat it to wish for good health and prosperity for the family for the year) ,and Mochi (rice cake).

Second Monday of January
成人の日/Seijin nohi
Coming of Age Day

Young men and women who are turning 20 are celebrated on this day.
They wear traditional Japanese clothes and celebrate together (legal drinking age is 20 in Japan, so many of them enjoy drinking).

kimono girls

February 11th
建国記念日/Kenkoku kinenbi
National Foundation Day

It is the day to celebrate the mythological foundation of Japan.
According to the earliest Japanese history record, the first Japanese emperor was crowned on this day in the year 660 BC.

February 14th
バレンタインデー/Valentine’s Day

It was brought from western countries and it became a tradition in the late 1970s (Chocolate companies ran advertisement and it became popular. Most Japanese chocolate companies make half their annual sales during Valentine season).
In Japan, women give chocolate to men (Chocolate that is given to a loved one is called “Honmei-Choko”, to co-workers/bosses is called “Giri(obligation)-Choko, and to friends is called “Tomo(Friend)-Choko”). March 14th is called “White Day”, when men are expected to return the favor to the ones who gave them chocolates on Feb 14th.

chocolate

February 23rd
天皇誕生日/Nennou Tanjoubi
Emperor’s birthday

It is the birthday of the current emperor, Emperor Naruhito.

March 3rd
ひな祭り/Hina Matsuri
Doll’s Day (Also called Girl’s Day)

It is the day to pray for good health and happiness of young girls in Japan. It is a tradition to display Japanese dolls dressed in decorative robes of the ancient imperial court at home.
Traditional food like Hishi-mochi (diamond shaped rice cakes) ,Chirashi sushi (many ingredients and raw fish are mixed and they are put on top of sweet vinegared rice) are displayed and served on the day.

hinamatsuri

Around March 20th
春分の日/Shunbun nohi
Vernal Equinox Day

It is the day around Mar 20th, when the March equinox occurs.
It is less popular now but people traditionally ate Botamochi on this day (rice cake covered with pasted red beans).

April 29th
昭和の日/Showa nohi
Showa Day

It is the birthday of the former Emperor Showa.

sakura and a bird

May 3rd
憲法記念日/Kenpo kinenbi
Constitution Day

It is the day to celebrate the promulgation of the 1947 Constitution of Japan.

May 4th
みどりの日/Midori nohi
Greenery Day

It is the day to be thankful for nature’s blessings (it was on April 29th until 2006 as Showa Day. It was moved to this date and celebrated as a day of Golden week now).

May 5th
こどもの日/Kodomo nohi
Children’s Day (Also called Boy’s Day)

It is a day to celebrate children’s happiness.
As the counterpart to Hinamatsuri, this day is also known as Boy’s Day.
On this day, Koinobori (carp-shaped windsock) is displayed (there’s a Chinese legend that a carp that swims upstream becomes a dragon).
Traditionally, the big black carp represents father, red one represents mother, and small ones are children.
As it was originally the day for boys, some people display Samurai dolls at home on this day.
Kashiwa Mochi (Rice cake wrapped in Oak leaves), and Chimaki (Sweet rice wrapped in a bamboo leaf) are served on the day (although this tradition is less popular now).

koinobori

July 7th
七夕/Tanabata
Star Festival

It is a Japanese festival originating from Chinese Qixi festival.
It is believed that the Milky Way separates Orihime and Hikoboshi (Vega and Altair stars), and they are allowed to meet once a year on this day.
People write wishes on colored paper and hang them on bamboo trees.

tanabata

July 20th
海の日/Umi nohi
Marine Day

This is the day to give thanks to the ocean.
It was designated in 1995 as the first holiday in the summer months.
Many schools start Summer vacation around this time.

August 11th
山の日/Yama nohi
Mountain Day

This is another relatively new holiday set in 2016 to appreciate blessings from mountains.

August 13th to 16th
お盆/Obon

It is a Buddhist event for commemorating ancestors.
It is said that the spirits of ancestors return to visit relatives during this time of the year.
People visit graves and Obon dance is performed at many temples and shrines.
Some people hang lanterns in front of houses to welcome those spirits.
At the end of Obon season, people float lanterns down the rivers for ancestors’ spirits to go back to their world safely.

obon lanterns

Third Monday of September
敬老の日/Keirou nohi
Respect for the aged day

This is the day to honor and respect the elder people.
Events to assist the elders are held on this day.

Around September 23rd
秋分の日/Shubun nohi
Autumnal equinox Day

People reconnect with their families by visiting temples, shrines, and graves on this day. It is also the day to celebrate autumn harvest.

Second Monday of October
体育の日/Taiiku nohi
Health and sports Day

In 1964, Tokyo Olympics was held on this day.  
Most schools have an annual sports festival around this time of the year.
In 2020, it will be on July 24th when the opening ceremony of 2020 Tokyo Olympics is held.
After 2020 on, the name of this holiday will be changed to Sports Day.

November 3rd　
文化の日/Bunka nohi
Culture Day

It was originally Emperor Meiji’s birthday.
It is a day to promote culture, art, and academic endeavor now.
Festivals are held in schools and at many places in Japan, and selected artists receive awards. In 1946, post-war constitution was announced on this day.

November 15th  
七五三/Shichi go san

It is a traditional rite of passage and a festival day to celebrate girls of 3 and 7 years old and boys of 5 years old.
Children wear traditional Japanese style clothes and people celebrate the growth and well-being of them.
Chitose ame (kind of a red and white, long candy) is served to hope for their long, healthy life (a crane and a turtle ,which represent long life in Japan, are drawn on the bag of it).

Shihigosan

November 23rd　
勤労感謝の日/Kinrou Kansha nohi
Labor Thanksgiving Day

This is the day to commemorate labor and production.
Labor festival is held in Nagano each year to think about the environment, peace, and human rights.

December 24th and 25th
クリスマス/Christmas

It is not a national holiday, but Japanese people celebrate Christmas just like in many western countries (these days in city areas, people even enjoy Halloween wearing costumes on Oct 31st).
Christmas trees are displayed and decorated at stores and stations ,and people get busy buying presents (and cakes!).

December 31st 　
大晦日/Oomisoka
New Year’s Eve

Families get together and most people clean the house to welcome the coming year. Watching some special TV programs while eating Soba noodle is a typical thing people do on this day.
At midnight, you hear the sound of Joya No Kane (New Year’s Bell).
Monks at temples ring the bell 108 times to remove worldly passions such as anger and pain ,and purify everyone’s minds.

a bell at a temple

By the way, Japan has as many as 16 national holidays (on average) and a worker can take 20 paid days off a year.
However, because the work environment is very competitive and the number of employees are declining in Japan (due to the aging population combined with the diminishing number of children), most people take only about 10 paid holidays.
Reference: https://welove.expedia.co.jp/press/40915/

We do need to improve the work environment to enjoy holidays and event more!
How about in your country?
Do people have enough time to enjoy national holidays and events?
Give me some comments below!

See you next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

21 Famous Japanese proverbs

by

Hi, How are you?
I’ve been busy working as usual… But I’m making my living doing what I love so I have no complaint! Life is great.
I teach Music and English every week, and I’m getting ready for new music project.
Oh, and me and my friend are planning to start a Youtube channel.
I will inform here when we are ready!

This time I listed some of the most popular Japanese proverbs.
I like learning proverbs because we can learn important teachings.
While I was doing some research, I found that there are a lot of similar sayings in English.
It is very interesting to know different words (often animals or objects) are used to express the same meaning, and see the different way of seeing the world.
Here is the list of them.
Have fun learning Japanese and expressions!

kids learning

1.船頭多くして船山に上る/ Sendou ookushite funeyama ni noboru.

Too many cooks spoil the broth.
Sendou means “A leader on a ship”.
If there are too many leaders on a ship, it will sail to a wrong place.

2.ちりも積もれば山となる/Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru.

Many drops make a shower.
Chiri means “Dust” and Yama means “A mountain”.
Even a very small/little thing like dust, it will be like a mountain if it piles.
It is used to talk about either good or bad result that a habit/practice brings.

3.藪をつついて蛇を出す/Yabu wo tsutsuite hebi wo dasu.

Let sleeping dogs lie.
Yabu means “Bush”, and Hebi means “a snake”.
If you do unnecessary thing like poking at the bush, a snake (or a trouble) will come out, so just let well alone.

4.笑う門には福来たる/Warau kado niwa fuku kitaru.

Good fortune and happiness will come to the home of those who smile.

5.嘘つきは泥棒の始まり/Usotsuki wa dorobou no hazimari.

Lying leads to stealing (and it gets worse, so don’t form a bad habit).

6.二度あることは三度ある/Nido aru koto wa sando aru.

What happens “Nido” (twice) will happen “Sando” (three times).

7.明日は明日の風が吹く/Ashita wa ashita no kaze ga fuku.

Tomorrow is another day.
The direct translation is, “There will be different wind blowing tomorrow”.
This is often used to tell someone to take it easy and be optimistic.

blowing

8.終わり良ければすべて良し/Owari yokereba subete yoshi.

All is well that ends well or It will all come good in the end.

9.百聞は一見にしかず/Hyakubun wa iken ni shikazu.

A picture is worth a thousand words or Seeing is believing.

10.二兎を追う者は一とも得ず/Nito wo oumono wa itoumo ezu.

He who runs after two hares will catch neither.

11.残り物には福がある/Nokori mono niwa fuku ga aru.

There is fortune in leftovers.
It is often used to tell someone that there is unexpected good in what others have left behind, so don’t give up/let’s be positive even if you are (or something is) left behind.

12.七転び八起き/Nana korobi ya oki.

Ups and downs.
The direct translation is, “Fall seven times, stand up eight times”. Even if you fall seven times, you can be successful by standing up eight times and keep on going, so never give up.

13.石の上にも三年/Ishi no ue nimo sannen.

Perseverance prevails.
The direct translation is, “Three years on a stone (will make the stone warm)”. Be patient and you will achieve your goal.

14.猿も木から落ちる/Saru mo ki kara ochiru.

Even homer sometimes nods.
Saru means “A monkey”. The direct translation is, “Even monkeys fall from trees”.

15.芸は身を助ける/Gei wa mi wo tasukeru.

Art brings bread.
Gei means “Art”. Mi wo tasukeru means, “Help someone”.

16.将を射んと欲すれば、先ず馬を射よ/Shou wo inn to hosureba, mazu uma wo iyo.

Do not shoot straight for the top (instead, see things well first and start with something that will lead to success/goal).
The direct translation is, “If you want to shoot the general, first shoot his horse”.

17.初心忘れる可からず/Shoshin wasuru bekarazu.

Don’t forget your first resolution or Never lose your humility.

18.千里の道も一歩から/Senri no michi mo ippo kara.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Sen means “A thousand”, and Ri is an old unit of measure which is about 4 kilometers.
So, Senri is 4,000 kilometers. “Senri” is used to talk about a long journey.

a lot of books

19.泣きっ面に蜂/Nakittura ni hachi.

It never rains but it pours.
The direct translation is, “A bee comes to someone crying”.
One misfortune rides upon another’s back.
Well, that happens a lot, doesn’t it?

20.出る釘は打たれる/Deru kugi wa utareru.

A nail that stands will be hammered down.
This one explains Japanese society well I think.
If you don’t conform to the rest, you’ll get hammered down….Ouch

21.猫に小判/Neko ni koban.

Cast pearls before swine.
Neko is “A cat”, and Koban is “Gold”, so the Japanese version is “Cast gold before cat”.

cat

Thank you for reading!
If there’s anything that you want me to write, let me know!

Have a great month,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh