The relations among lords, shogun and Emperor would be explained in short, this way. Emperor has been regarded as the legitimate ruler to govern Japan and shogun was appointed by Emperor as the top of military or his guard, who gained gradually social power with their powerful force. Later, shogun became virtually the ruler of […]
The structure of a traditional Japanese house and its meaning
Japanese houses are famous for their unique design and functionality, deeply rooted in history and culture. First, let’s talk about “wa-fu kenchiku” or Japanese-style architecture. One of its features is the “tatami” mat. Tatami is made from rush grass and is used to cover the floor. Living on tatami is essential for relaxation in Japanese […]
Japanese Castles Were Built To Show The Lord’s Power
There are many castles in Japan, where local lords resided, were built beautifully and gorgeously to show the lords’ power and dignity. Especially beautiful Himeji castle was designated as a world heritage site. The lords governed their domain like present day governor and the shogun controlled these lords nationwide. Hidden castle secretes The purpose of […]
Japanese Culture “Tea Ceremony” and the Japanese Mind
“Sado” is a traditional Japanese tea ceremony that involves deep philosophy and aesthetics. It’s not just about drinking tea; it’s about preparing the heart and showing respect through precise manners. First, let’s talk about the basic principles of “Sado.” There are four essential spirits called “Wa-Kei-Sei-Jaku.” “Wa” means harmony, “Kei” means respect, “Sei” means purity, […]
Geisha was the symbol of Japan
Japan was once used to be described as “Japan ― the country of Fujiyama and geisha.” Geisha is entertaining hostess, who have often been confused or misunderstood with yuujo (prostitute)or maiko(geisha trainee often seen in Kyoto) or oiran (courtesan). Nowadays, you can see them only at hot spring resorts and some banquet restaurants. Many geisha […]
Mt. Fuji, is the icon of Japan
The highest in Japan, with 3776m, is a conical and symmetrical mountain, standing alone in low mountainous area. It is so distinctive, beautiful and magnificent. Japanese believed it would be registered smoothly as World Natural Heritage Site. However, UNESCO did not recognize it as there are some similar shaped mountains in other countries. Mt. Fuji […]
Unforgettable communication – Homevisit Plus
The participant Carol Wiliams came to Japan from Pennsylvania, USA on a tour. This is her second visit to Japan. She loves to see local Japan. So, she visited mainly Kyushu, including Gotou islands last time and this time Her travel started from Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture and visited various central Japan and Tokyo on the […]
Japanese respect nature
Shintoism is a traditional Japanese animism religion. Japanese people have believed there are gods in nature, such as great mountains, rivers, rocks, and even the animals and people that have superpower. They built shrines to show their respect and have worshipped them and coexisted with nature. What is enshrined? It is said the Shinntou god […]