September 2024

In Praise of Shadows

“In Praise of Shadows” by Tanizaki Jun’ichirō: An Ode to Darkness

“In Praise of Shadows” (In’ei Raisan) was written by Tanizaki Jun’ichirō in 1933. It is a philosophical essay that explores the aesthetic concepts specific to Japanese culture. Far from the luminous exuberance of Western modernity, Tanizaki celebrates the beauty of shadows. He celebrates the darkness and its subtle nuances that characterize Japanese tradition. This work, […]

“In Praise of Shadows” by Tanizaki Jun’ichirō: An Ode to Darkness Read More »

Nintendo DS

Nintendo DS – A Revolution in Portable Gaming

Launched in 2004, the Nintendo DS is a portable gaming console. It marked a turning point in the video game industry. Designed and developed by Nintendo, it stood out for its technological innovation, unique design and vast game library. With its dual screen, including a touch screen, and its wireless features, the DS captivated a

Nintendo DS – A Revolution in Portable Gaming Read More »

Discover the magic of the annual REITA-Sai festival in Kamakura, where the ancient art of Japanese archery meets equestrian grace. Immerse yourself in the spiritual rituals and traditional parade on September 15, then witness the breathtaking horseback archery performance on September 16. A unique journey through history and

REITA-Sai in Kamakura: The Shinto Archery Event

The major annual festival at Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu Shrine in Kamakura is known as REITA-Sai. It stands out as one of the most remarkable moments in Japan’s Shinto festivities calendar. The festival, held over three days from September 14 to 16, captivates visitors with its lavish yabusame ritual. This is a unique form of archery performed

REITA-Sai in Kamakura: The Shinto Archery Event Read More »

Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata – A Video Game Between Combat and Philosophy

Nier: Automata is an action-RPG (action role-playing game) video game developed by PlatinumGames and published by Square Enix. It was released in 2017 on PlayStation 4, PC and later on Xbox One. It is the spiritual sequel to the game Nier (2010), itself a spin-off of the Drakengard series. Created under the direction of Yoko

Nier: Automata – A Video Game Between Combat and Philosophy Read More »

Nananan Kiriko

Nananan Kiriko: A discreet icon of alternative manga

Nananan Kiriko is a Japanese mangaka. Her work has established itself as a reference in alternative manga and the gekiga movement. It is a more mature subgenre of manga, often intended for an adult audience. This author was born in 1972 in Tsubame, Niigata Prefecture. She has distinguished herself from the beginning with a unique

Nananan Kiriko: A discreet icon of alternative manga Read More »

Yukio Mishima

Yukio Mishima: A Literary Genius in Search of Immortality

Yukio Mishima, real name Kimitake Hiraoka, is one of the most iconic and controversial figures in 20th-century Japanese literature. His prolific work, his obsession with honor, nationalism, and beauty, as well as his spectacular death by seppuku (ritual suicide) in 1970, have left a lasting mark on Japanese and international culture. This unique blend of

Yukio Mishima: A Literary Genius in Search of Immortality Read More »

Yakushi-ji Temple

Yakushi-ji Temple in Nara: A Journey into Japanese History

Nestled in the heart of the city of Nara, Yakushi-ji Temple is a historical gem. It transports its visitors to Japan’s glorious past. Founded in the 7th century, this majestic Buddhist temple is one of the oldest and most revered in the country. This is a testament to its rich cultural and religious heritage. A

Yakushi-ji Temple in Nara: A Journey into Japanese History Read More »

Hiroshi Yoshida

Hiroshi Yoshida: Master of Modern Japanese Printmaking

Hiroshi Yoshida (1876-1950) is an emblematic figure of 20th-century Japanese printmaking. Famous for his delicate and luminous landscapes, he was able to combine traditional Japanese printmaking techniques with Western influences. Particularly through the use of perspective and play of light. The Beginnings of a Versatile Artist Born in Kurume, Japan, Yoshida showed a great aptitude

Hiroshi Yoshida: Master of Modern Japanese Printmaking Read More »

Shimane Prefecture

Shimane Prefecture: A Hidden Treasure of Japan

Located on the west coast of the island of Honshū, Shimane Prefecture is a discreet region. But the history and culture of Japan are deeply rooted there. This territory is sparsely populated and mostly rural. However, it is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes, its historical sites rich in myths and legends, as well as

Shimane Prefecture: A Hidden Treasure of Japan Read More »

Scroll to Top