What is Japan’s “kawaii”? What is the history behind this subculture that has inherited fashion, toys, books, and food? Kawaii culture is recognized by the Japanese government as one of the country’s most important cultural exports. It spread all over the world through kawaii fashion, manga books, toys, food, and more. Kawaii food is a […]
Category: Japanese Culture
The Japanese Omotenashi Spirit
The Meaning of Omotenashi The meaning of Omotenashi, simply put, is “to treat others with respect and without asking for compensation. It may sound simple, but there is actually an interesting etymology hidden in the word Omotenashi. Etymology of Omotenashi What is the origin of the word Omotenashi? The word “Omotenashi” originally comes from […]
The various types of Japanese Dishware and how to use them
Have you noticed that Japanese cuisine comes with a wide variety of dishware compared to western cuisine? Today we will explain the types of the many Japanese dishware available and how to use them appropriately so you can incorporate them into their dishes to elevate the appearance of your food. Types and uses of tableware […]
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“What is Bishamon!?” The origin behind the name
What kind of god is “Bishamon”? The “Bishamon” from Bishamon Group originates from the Buddhist deity known as “Bishamon-ten” in Japanese. The deity is recognized in Japanese culture as a protector of Japanese shrines and temples and even depicted in popular culture such as video games. Also known as Vaiśravaṇa, the name originates from the […]
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Samurai, Bushi and Ninja: Warriors of premodern Japan
We’re sure there are many people who think of Samurai when they hear the word “Japan.” With their characteristic hairstyles and katana (Japanese sword), Samurai have been featured in many anime and manga. Samurai existed in the Japan until just a 150 years ago, not just in anime. This time, we’re going to talk about […]
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Recommended to those who want a deeper understanding of Japan! The traditional arts of Japan
The traditional arts of Japan, developed in an isolated island country in the far east, have been drawing attention from the rest of the world. This time, we’d like to introduce the world of Japan’s traditional arts to those of you who want a deeper understanding of Japan. What are the Japan’s traditional arts? While […]
Why did Akihabara, a town where anime fans and otaku gather, become sacred ground?
Japanese animation, also known as “anime,” has fans all over the world, and there is one place where many anime fans say they want to visit at least once. That is Tokyo’s “Akihabara.” Akihabara is treated as a “sacred ground” where otaku, those who are crazy about anime, games and cosplay (dressing up as one’s […]
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The Japanese enjoy alcohol at seasonal events! The alcohol imbibed during cherry blossom viewing and festivals
Events in Japan have long had deep ties with enjoyment of alcohol. The experience that gathering around delicious food and gazing at cherry blossoms with a drink provides is a staple of cherry blossom viewing, an event synonymous with spring. Alcohol is a requirement for summer events, too. Festivals go without saying, but people even […]
What kind of drink is sake? An easy-to-follow explanation covering everything from ingredients to different production methods
Known as nihonshu in Japan, sake is one of Japan’s most well known products and is loved for its superb mouthfeel and quaffability. Although it goes well with cuisine from different countries, there are probably many people out there who still wonder what, exactly, sake is. If you like sake but aren’t sure about how […]