MOUNT FUJISAN
Learn about the iconic Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak, in our in-depth article. Learn about the history, geology, and cultural significance of this sacred mountain, as well as the different ways to explore and admire it.
The Maneki-Neko cat
The Manekineko, also known as “lucky cat”, is a ceramic or porcelain figurine popular in Japanese culture. This statue depicts a cat raising a paw as if it were waving to come. The Manekineko is often associated with good luck, prosperity and happiness, and is frequently used as a decorative item in homes, stores and …
TEPPANYAKI : Hot plate cooking
Teppanyaki is a style of Japanese cooking where ingredients are grilled on a cast iron hot plate called a teppan. It is a popular form of Japanese dining around the world, often associated with high-end restaurants and skilled chefs. The preparation of teppanyaki is a culinary experience in itself, with chefs often performing acrobatics with …
The administrative geography of prefectures
In Japan, prefectures are administrative divisions similar to states or provinces in other countries. There are currently 47 prefectures in Japan, each with its own government and administrative system. The government of each prefecture is headed by an elected governor, who acts as the local chief executive. The governor is assisted by a prefectural council, …
Kūkai, founder of the Shingon Buddhist school
Kūkai, also known as Kōbō-Daishi, was a 9th century Japanese Buddhist monk. He is best known for founding the Shingon school, a branch of Vajrayāna Buddhism that combines elements of Buddhist philosophy with tantric practices imported from China and India. Born in 774 in the village of Byōbuga-ura on the island of Shikoku became a …
Hishaku, the bamboo landing net.
Hishaku is a traditional Japanese utensil used to serve hot or cold water in a tea ceremony or to water plants. It is made of wood, often bamboo, and can be decorated with traditional carvings or designs. In this article, we will explore the history and use of hishaku, as well as its cultural significance. …
Hijiki, a mineral-rich seaweed.
Hijiki seaweed, also known as hiziki, is an edible brown seaweed native to the coasts of Japan, China and Korea. It is considered a superfood because of its many health benefits. Hijiki has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a tender, crunchy texture. It is often used in Japanese cuisine, where it is added to …
THE MEIJI ERA (1868-1912).
The Meiji Era is a period of Japanese history that took place from 1868 to 1912. It marks a period of modernization and radical transformation of the country, which allowed Japan to become a major economic and military power. Historical context of the Meiji era: In the mid-19th century, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa …
Kyoto: imperial capital
Kyoto (京都市, Kyōto-shi, literally “capital city”) is a city that embodies Japanese culture, heritage and tradition. Located in the Kansai region of Japan, Kyoto was the country’s capital for over 1,000 years before Tokyo took over in 1868. Despite this, Kyoto has retained its unique cultural identity and charm that attracts millions of visitors each …
Chaki Tea Box(茶 器): Natsume(枣) or Chaire (茶入)
The tea box, also known as Chaki (茶 器: “tea tool”) in Japanese, is an essential accessory in the Japanese tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu. In this ceremony, utensils are carefully chosen to create harmony between the different elements used. Chaki are classified both according to their material and shape, as well as according to …