The Japanese have a certain set of customs; it is recommend that first time travelers familiarize themselves with Japanese customs before interacting with locals. lifestyle + culture will detail the cultural and traditional elements of the Japanese that may seem unfamiliar to visitors. Japanese are known for their exemplary etiquette, funny quirks, and unconventional approaches to lifestyle and living.
welcome to tokyo, japan!
Japan is an archipelago in East Asia. The kanji characters that represent Japan mean "sun origin" and it is also called "Land of the Rising Sun". There are over five thousand islands that comprise this country in the Pacific Ocean. The nation is divided into 47 prefectures in eight regions. The population is approximately 126 million. Japan has the third largest economy by GDP alone. The government of Japan is a unitary constitutional monarchy with an Emperor at the header and supported by an elected legislature, the National Diet. In the past century, Japan has grown to become a worldwide power, boosted by the success of its economy and rapidly developing tourism and science and technology sectors.
japanese culture
Modern Japanese culture combines Eastern and Western culture, mixing older Asian influences with newer North American and European influences. Zen is a renowned Japanese idea that originates from Traditional Japanese arts encompass crafts, ceramics, swords and dolls, dance, the martial arts, calligraphy, origami, onsen, Geisha, crafts such as ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, swords and dolls; performances of bunraku, kabuki, noh, dance, rakugo, ikebana, the tea ceremony, karate, kendo, martial arts; visuals of ukiyo-e, ikebana, calligraphy, origami, onsen. Japanese culture is diverse and has rich roots in the people.
japanese occupations
The samurai emerged as a warrior class that have had a significant role in shaping Japanese values. They live by a code of honor, Bushido or that dictates the philosophy of what it means to be samurai. The closest Western analog to samurai honor is the notion of chivalry. The samurai value loyalty, martial excellence, and honour unto death above all.
The Geisha is instantly recognizable by her powdered snow white face, dark red lips, and elaborate hairdos. The geisha are considered the "gatekeepers of Japan's traditional arts" and preserve the tradition of music, dance, and performance true to Japanese history. The geisha practices and trains in order to be a master at her traditional craft.
japanese customs
The Japanese hold themselves to a strong sense of etiquette that dictates social order and behaviors. The bow is a form of showing respect, remorse, or used as a general greeting. Various degrees of bowing correspond to various displays of respect. Taking off footwear is another customary thing to do in Japan. It is especially important to do so when entering one’s private homes. Most customs are rooted in the idea of respect and showing deference to higher authority.