REFERENCES
Internet
(n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Japan national tourism organisation: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/about/overview/index.html
(n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Maps of the world: http://www.mapsofworld.com/japan/culture/
(n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Lonely planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan
(n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Japan-101: http://www.japan-101.com/culture/
(n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Tokyo essentials: http://www.tokyoessentials.com/entertainment.html
(n.d.). Retrieved december10 2010, from world focus: http://worldfocus.org/blog/2010/02/22/japans-indigenous-ainu-people-struggle-to-keep-way-of-life/9780/
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/japan. (n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from Lonely planet.
Japan national tourism organisation. (n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/about/overview/index.html.
Maps of the world. (n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from http://www.mapsofworld.com/japan/culture/.
wa-pedia. (n.d.). Retrieved December 10, 2010, from http://www.wa-pedia.com/japan-guide/tokyo.shtml
Books
Kamachi, N. (1999) Culture and customs of Japan. Greenwood Press.
Bramble, P.S. (2004) Culture shock! Japan. Times Editions- Marshall Cavendish.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Monday, December 6, 2010
Comment on whether tourism has been a culprit in commodifying cultures and traditions
To a large extent, I strongly agree that tourism has been a culprit in commodifying cultures and traditions. Tourism development causes the local culture to be diluted, resulting in the loss of indigenous identity and values. When tourists travel to Japan, they will bring in their own cultures. As a result of adapting to tourists demands, the locals are influenced by the tourists, which in turn change their value systems and behaviour and thereby threaten the culture of the Japanese indigenous identity.
Analysis of the changes that have brought about by the growth of tourism in Japan
Definition: Tourism is the activities of people travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than a consecutive year for leisure, business, and other purposes.
Economic Impact
The growth of tourism in Japan has brought about both positive and negative impacts.
Development of tourism in Japan increase Japan’s tourism revenue, providing economic benefits for the Japanese population. As a result, governments can use this revenue to improve education, health, defence, housing and transportation in Japan. This will benefit the Japanese and thus improve their standard of living.
However, the growth of tourism will widen the income gap between the rich and poor. Although tourism development will cause certain parts of Japan to develop rapidly, it has also contributed to the other regions of Japan to be less developed. This is because the rich in the developed countries will continue to prosper due to better opportunities, while the poor and lowly-skilled workers face economic uncertainties such as retrenchment.
Social Impact
The growth of tourism has also changed the way people lead their lives. It has commodified Japan’s culture and transforms the society.
Tourism development in Japan allows the Japanese to be more aware of different foreign cultures.
However, it will also lead to loss of local culture. As foreign culture has been brought into Japan, a largely homogenous culture is created in Japan.
Growth in Japan’s tourism has also led to the spread of pop culture across the globe. These cultures include rap music, MTV, and Hollywood movies. These cultures have influenced the youths negatively as they lose interest in the local culture.
Economic Impact
The growth of tourism in Japan has brought about both positive and negative impacts.
Development of tourism in Japan increase Japan’s tourism revenue, providing economic benefits for the Japanese population. As a result, governments can use this revenue to improve education, health, defence, housing and transportation in Japan. This will benefit the Japanese and thus improve their standard of living.
However, the growth of tourism will widen the income gap between the rich and poor. Although tourism development will cause certain parts of Japan to develop rapidly, it has also contributed to the other regions of Japan to be less developed. This is because the rich in the developed countries will continue to prosper due to better opportunities, while the poor and lowly-skilled workers face economic uncertainties such as retrenchment.
Social Impact
The growth of tourism has also changed the way people lead their lives. It has commodified Japan’s culture and transforms the society.
Tourism development in Japan allows the Japanese to be more aware of different foreign cultures.
However, it will also lead to loss of local culture. As foreign culture has been brought into Japan, a largely homogenous culture is created in Japan.
Growth in Japan’s tourism has also led to the spread of pop culture across the globe. These cultures include rap music, MTV, and Hollywood movies. These cultures have influenced the youths negatively as they lose interest in the local culture.
“Disney” in the modern society of Japan
Definition: The Disneyization of society argues that the contemporary world is increasingly displaying characteristics of the Disney theme parks. It is a process by which the principles of the Disney theme parks are coming to dominate more and more sectors of American society as well as the rest of the world.
As a result of globalization, many cities in Japan have been “Disneyfied”, which in turn cause the Japanese people to be more exposed to the different cultures in the world. As compared to other Asian cultures, Japan’s culture is unique and exotic in the sense that it has been heavily influenced by the Western culture. This led to an extreme difference in culture from one region to another. Japan has a combination of European, Asian, and Chinese as well as North American culture. Japanese culture was shaped by Chinese and Korean influences throughout its history until Western Europe became its model for modernization in the late nineteenth century.
Tokyo Disneyland is the “Disney” that I have spotted in Japan.
Theming - clothing institutions or objects in a narrative that is largely unrelated to the institution or object to which it is applied, such as a casino or restaurant with a Wild West narrative.
Tokyo Disneyland in Japan has spawned a large number of theme parks. These are considered as theme rather than amusement parks since it has a theme that is influence by the westerners. The Tokyo Disneyland resembles the Disneyland resort in USA, providing an ‘American’ experience for the Japanese visitors. As such, an alien culture is being introduced to the Japanese, giving them an opportunity to experience the Americans culture.
As stated in the article, theming was a mechanism to achieve the goals of the appealing to adults as much as children. Tokyo Disneyland is also targeted to families which are both adults and children. Hence, this is an evidence of it being categorized as a theme rather than an amusement park.
There are a total of seven theme areas in the Tokyo Disneyland which are divided from the “Land Park” and “Sea Park”, namely Lost river delta, Arabian coast, Mermaid lagoon, Mysterious Island, American waterfront, Mediterranean harbor and Port discovery.
Hybrid Consumption - a general trend whereby the forms of consumption associated with different institutional spheres become interlocked with each other and increasingly difficult to distinguish.
In addition to providing entertainment for the visitors, the Tokyo Disneyland is also a place for shopping. There are many shops and dining restaurants available in each of the seven theme areas which sell a variety of food and products. Besides having areas to play, eat and shop, the Tokyo Disneyland also provides shows and accommodation for the visitors. There are a total of three hotels available which include Disney Ambassador Hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Hotel Miracosta and Tokyo Disneyland Hotel.
Merchandising - the promotion and sale of goods in the form of or bearing copyright images and/or logos, including such products made under licence.
The shops in Tokyo Disneyland provide a range of different types of Disney merchandise such as apparels, photo accessories, watches, stationery, and other gift products etc. Many of these products bear the Disney theme logo or copyright images on sale. Some examples include “The Little Mermaid” themed products. There is also Mickey Mouse design clothing and other items sold in a shop called Steamboat Mickey’s. Winnie the Pooh plush dolls can also be found in a shop, Pooh Corner.
Performative Labour - the growing tendency for frontline service work to be viewed as a performance, especially one in which the deliberate display of a certain mood is seen as part of the labour involved in service work.
Japan’s service staff will dress up in Disney costume to blend in with their theme. Japan has a high standard of service. Hence, the kind of service the frontline service staff provides will definitely satisfy and exceed the customer’s expectation. However, by just providing a good service is not enough, they had to dress up according to the Disney theme, which will liven up the mood.
As a result of globalization, many cities in Japan have been “Disneyfied”, which in turn cause the Japanese people to be more exposed to the different cultures in the world. As compared to other Asian cultures, Japan’s culture is unique and exotic in the sense that it has been heavily influenced by the Western culture. This led to an extreme difference in culture from one region to another. Japan has a combination of European, Asian, and Chinese as well as North American culture. Japanese culture was shaped by Chinese and Korean influences throughout its history until Western Europe became its model for modernization in the late nineteenth century.
Tokyo Disneyland is the “Disney” that I have spotted in Japan.
Theming - clothing institutions or objects in a narrative that is largely unrelated to the institution or object to which it is applied, such as a casino or restaurant with a Wild West narrative.
Tokyo Disneyland in Japan has spawned a large number of theme parks. These are considered as theme rather than amusement parks since it has a theme that is influence by the westerners. The Tokyo Disneyland resembles the Disneyland resort in USA, providing an ‘American’ experience for the Japanese visitors. As such, an alien culture is being introduced to the Japanese, giving them an opportunity to experience the Americans culture.
As stated in the article, theming was a mechanism to achieve the goals of the appealing to adults as much as children. Tokyo Disneyland is also targeted to families which are both adults and children. Hence, this is an evidence of it being categorized as a theme rather than an amusement park.
There are a total of seven theme areas in the Tokyo Disneyland which are divided from the “Land Park” and “Sea Park”, namely Lost river delta, Arabian coast, Mermaid lagoon, Mysterious Island, American waterfront, Mediterranean harbor and Port discovery.
Hybrid Consumption - a general trend whereby the forms of consumption associated with different institutional spheres become interlocked with each other and increasingly difficult to distinguish.
In addition to providing entertainment for the visitors, the Tokyo Disneyland is also a place for shopping. There are many shops and dining restaurants available in each of the seven theme areas which sell a variety of food and products. Besides having areas to play, eat and shop, the Tokyo Disneyland also provides shows and accommodation for the visitors. There are a total of three hotels available which include Disney Ambassador Hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Hotel Miracosta and Tokyo Disneyland Hotel.
Merchandising - the promotion and sale of goods in the form of or bearing copyright images and/or logos, including such products made under licence.
The shops in Tokyo Disneyland provide a range of different types of Disney merchandise such as apparels, photo accessories, watches, stationery, and other gift products etc. Many of these products bear the Disney theme logo or copyright images on sale. Some examples include “The Little Mermaid” themed products. There is also Mickey Mouse design clothing and other items sold in a shop called Steamboat Mickey’s. Winnie the Pooh plush dolls can also be found in a shop, Pooh Corner.
Performative Labour - the growing tendency for frontline service work to be viewed as a performance, especially one in which the deliberate display of a certain mood is seen as part of the labour involved in service work.
Japan’s service staff will dress up in Disney costume to blend in with their theme. Japan has a high standard of service. Hence, the kind of service the frontline service staff provides will definitely satisfy and exceed the customer’s expectation. However, by just providing a good service is not enough, they had to dress up according to the Disney theme, which will liven up the mood.
What is the country known for?
Besides being famous for its rich culture and traditions, delicacies etc, Japan is also well known for sightseeing and shopping etc. As some of these aspects have been mentioned in the previous posts, I will be focusing mainly on the must see attractions in Japan in this post. In addition to the attractions, Japan is also renowned to be a fashionable country and a place famous for sightseeing.
Mt.Fuji
Mt. Fuji (Fujisan) is a must see attraction because it is the Japan’s most famous and highest mountain with a height of 3776 meters. It is considered to be Japan’s famous icon and one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. Visitors will be able to enjoy the magnificent scenery it provides. For those who love mountain climbing, they will be able to climb up to the summit to watch the beautiful sunset. Do take note that the view of Mt.Fuji is often block by clouds, a clearer view of the mountains will during the colder seasons, early in the morning or in late evening.
The Sakura blossoms only during the spring season when the climate is mild. Hence, it is advisable to travel to Japan during this season to visit the beautiful blossoms. There are more than a hundred of different varieties of cherry trees available in Japan. The month in which the cherry blossoms open differs in different regions of Japan. Cherry blossoms open in early January in southern Japan, Okinawa. While in the northern Japan, Hokkaido, the cherry blossoms open in late May. For major cities that are in the middle of Japan archipelago, they bloom at the start of April.
Famous sites of cherry blossom are always crowded with people. In order to secure a best spot to view the cherry blossoms, some people even stay overnight before their hanami party.
Here are some popular spots in Tokyo where you will be able to view the cherry blossoms:
1) Shinjuku Gyoen
2) Ueno Park
3) Chidorigafuchi
4) Sumida Park
Mt.Fuji
Mt. Fuji (Fujisan) is a must see attraction because it is the Japan’s most famous and highest mountain with a height of 3776 meters. It is considered to be Japan’s famous icon and one of the world’s most beautiful mountains. Visitors will be able to enjoy the magnificent scenery it provides. For those who love mountain climbing, they will be able to climb up to the summit to watch the beautiful sunset. Do take note that the view of Mt.Fuji is often block by clouds, a clearer view of the mountains will during the colder seasons, early in the morning or in late evening.
Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is a popular and famous icon in Tokyo, resembling the Eiffel tower in Paris. With a height of 333m, it is the tallest self-supporting steel tower in the world which has attracted many tourists. Completed in the year 1958, the Tokyo Tower is not only a tourist attraction, it is also a symbol for Japan’s rebirth as a major economic power, and serves as a television and radio broadcast antenna. An elevator will lead you up the tower where you will be able to see a breath-taking and panoramic view of Tokyo. Mt. Fuji will also be seen in a distance away if the weather conditions is good.
Akihabara
Another attraction in Tokyo that is not to be missed in Tokyo is the Akihabara which is the world’s biggest electrical equipment town. This area is also known as the Otaku town which is famous area to shop for many electronic gadgets, anime and manga.
Ginza
Ginza is Tokyo’s most well known high end shopping district which includes great dining and entertainment place. At the Ginza, numerous department stores, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, night clubs and cafes can be found. Kabuki-za, a theatre where visitors can enjoy the opera and musical performances is also located here.
Fashion
Japan's vibrant pop culture and its leading fashion trends is an eye opener for tourists. Fashionable youths can be found in many locations in Tokyo.
Harajuku is a place in Tokyo which is renowned to be the world’s major fashion trend setter among the youths. If you are keen to see the latest Japanese street fashion, you would not want to miss visiting Takeshita-dori. This is a narrow street where you will see many young people dress fashionably and you will be able to find a number of fashion boutiques.
If you are interested to see Harajuku’s youth culture, Yoyogi Park is the ideal place then. It is a place packed with Gothic Lolita. This is one of Tokyo’s most distinctive and extreme fashion style among the Japanese teenagers and young women. This youth fashion is Victorian-style and it gives an outlook of Victorian Porcelain dolls.
Another stylish area where you can find Harajuku fashion is the Omote-sando which is a place full of fashion boutiques with international fashion brands. Materialistic youths who love to enjoy luxuries will visit this place because the items sold here are of real brand names; there is no imitation copies sold there.
Shibuya is also a famous fashionable shopping district of Tokyo. You will also be able to find many fashionable boutiques here in the department stores and shopping malls.
Below is a documentary of the contemporary Japanese pop culture.
Cherry Blossom
The cherry blossom (Sakura) is Japan's unofficial national flower which symbolized ultimate beauty in literature from ancient times. In Japan, cherry blossom viewing (Hanami) is very popular. It is a traditional custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers that is celebrated by the Japanese. Many tourists would travel to Japan to see the cherry trees in full bloom.
The Sakura blossoms only during the spring season when the climate is mild. Hence, it is advisable to travel to Japan during this season to visit the beautiful blossoms. There are more than a hundred of different varieties of cherry trees available in Japan. The month in which the cherry blossoms open differs in different regions of Japan. Cherry blossoms open in early January in southern Japan, Okinawa. While in the northern Japan, Hokkaido, the cherry blossoms open in late May. For major cities that are in the middle of Japan archipelago, they bloom at the start of April.
Famous sites of cherry blossom are always crowded with people. In order to secure a best spot to view the cherry blossoms, some people even stay overnight before their hanami party.Here are some popular spots in Tokyo where you will be able to view the cherry blossoms:
1) Shinjuku Gyoen
2) Ueno Park
3) Chidorigafuchi
4) Sumida Park
Leisure Programmes & Entertainment
In Japan, there are many types of leisure programmes and entertainment.
Sports
Sumo is Japan’s national sport which is a special type of wrestling of ancient origin that dates back to almost 300 years ago. It is a performance to entertain the Shinto gods in the past and today, it is practised in high schools and colleges. A wrestler wins when the opponent is being forced out of the centre of the circle or when any part of the opponent’s body other than the feet soles touch the surface of the ring (Dohyo). There are six tournaments of grand Sumo held annually. Yokozuna is known to be the grand champion of the tournament.
Karaoke
Karaoke, which literally means “empty orchestra”, is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Japan since the 1970s. It has now spread into many other countries in the world.
In the past, Karaoke machines in the hostess bars were equipped with recording tapes and microphones, which is a form of entertainment for the Japanese. Customers had to take turns to use the microphone during that period of time.
In the 1980s, the introduction of compact and laser disc and private rooms that are sound-proofed allow more people to sing at the same time, without having to wait for their turn to sing. Karaoke then gained a huge popularity and became a popular form of entertainment. Besides the Japanese World War II military songs, the selection of songs increases to include many different songs from other countries.
Today, karaoke became so popular that it can be found in many schools in Japan where the kids will be able to sing in their music rooms.
Pachinko
Pachinko is a popular Japanese vertical pinball game. Pachinko parlors can be found almost everywhere in Japan. It is an inexpensive form of entertainment where the winners will get tickets in exchange for prizes such as a pack of cigarettes or a candy box etc. Nowadays, a large amount of money is involved when playing this game, as people can gain or lose more than a hundred thousand yen.
Hot Springs
Natural hot springs (Onsen) is very popular in Japan. There are many different types of hot springs in every region of Japan. The type of minerals in the water differs for each type of hot spring and they are beneficial to health. Soaking in the hot spring will help people to relax their body and mind. Hot spring baths are usually found in ryokan or public bath houses.
Manga
Manga which refers to Japanese Comics books and magazines are extremely popular in Japan since the 1970s. In the mid-1990s, almost one-third of the books and magazines published are for cartoons and comic strips. It is so popular that more than fifty comic magazines are published weekly, biweekly or monthly. There are many types of comic magazines, catering to youths, adults, girls and boys. In Japan, cartoons and comic strips are not only popular in the form of magazines; they are also popular on television and movie theatres.
Sports
Sumo is Japan’s national sport which is a special type of wrestling of ancient origin that dates back to almost 300 years ago. It is a performance to entertain the Shinto gods in the past and today, it is practised in high schools and colleges. A wrestler wins when the opponent is being forced out of the centre of the circle or when any part of the opponent’s body other than the feet soles touch the surface of the ring (Dohyo). There are six tournaments of grand Sumo held annually. Yokozuna is known to be the grand champion of the tournament.
Karaoke
Karaoke, which literally means “empty orchestra”, is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Japan since the 1970s. It has now spread into many other countries in the world.
In the past, Karaoke machines in the hostess bars were equipped with recording tapes and microphones, which is a form of entertainment for the Japanese. Customers had to take turns to use the microphone during that period of time.
In the 1980s, the introduction of compact and laser disc and private rooms that are sound-proofed allow more people to sing at the same time, without having to wait for their turn to sing. Karaoke then gained a huge popularity and became a popular form of entertainment. Besides the Japanese World War II military songs, the selection of songs increases to include many different songs from other countries.
Today, karaoke became so popular that it can be found in many schools in Japan where the kids will be able to sing in their music rooms.
PachinkoPachinko is a popular Japanese vertical pinball game. Pachinko parlors can be found almost everywhere in Japan. It is an inexpensive form of entertainment where the winners will get tickets in exchange for prizes such as a pack of cigarettes or a candy box etc. Nowadays, a large amount of money is involved when playing this game, as people can gain or lose more than a hundred thousand yen.
Hot Springs
Natural hot springs (Onsen) is very popular in Japan. There are many different types of hot springs in every region of Japan. The type of minerals in the water differs for each type of hot spring and they are beneficial to health. Soaking in the hot spring will help people to relax their body and mind. Hot spring baths are usually found in ryokan or public bath houses.
MangaManga which refers to Japanese Comics books and magazines are extremely popular in Japan since the 1970s. In the mid-1990s, almost one-third of the books and magazines published are for cartoons and comic strips. It is so popular that more than fifty comic magazines are published weekly, biweekly or monthly. There are many types of comic magazines, catering to youths, adults, girls and boys. In Japan, cartoons and comic strips are not only popular in the form of magazines; they are also popular on television and movie theatres.
Mode of Education
Education System
The Japan’s education system is reformed by the Americans after the Second World War. Established based on the Americans own educational system, the Japanese educational system is divided into six years of elementary schooling (Shougakkou), three years of junior high school (Chuugakkou), and three years of senior high school (Koutougakkou) and four years of university or two year of junior college.
The Japan’s education system is reformed by the Americans after the Second World War. Established based on the Americans own educational system, the Japanese educational system is divided into six years of elementary schooling (Shougakkou), three years of junior high school (Chuugakkou), and three years of senior high school (Koutougakkou) and four years of university or two year of junior college. 
Attending elementary school at the age of 6 to 12 and junior high school education at the age of 12 to 15 is compulsory in Japan. Although the compulsory education age in Japan is 15 years old, about 90% of the Japanese managed to graduate from high school while about 40% of them graduate from university or college.
In Japan, there are both public and private schools. Generally, private schools tend to be more expensive than public schools.
There are many private international schools in Japan such as The British School in Tokyo and Tokyo International School. These schools offer the same curriculum as the U.S. schools and are found mostly in major cities, particularly Tokyo.
School System
The Japanese school usually starts academic sessions in April and it comprises a total of three terms. Along with one month long summer vacation, the terms are separated by short holidays in spring and winter seasons.
Education Alternative
Cram Schools (Juku) provide extra lessons to help students to prepare for entrance exams into high schools and university.
Languages
Spoken Language
Japanese is the only official language in Japan. Being treated as the first language by many locals, Japanese is the main mode of communication. However, in Tokyo, there are several mode of communication. Besides Japanese, English is widely spoken by the residents of Tokyo. Some other languages that are used include Chinese and Korean etc which are most probably due to the presence of their population in Tokyo.
There are mainly two forms of Japanese language- standard Japanese (Hyojungo) and common language (Kyotsugo). Hyojungo is used widely in schools and on television. Standard Japanese (Hyojungo) is the language spoken in Tokyo.
Japanese language has many different dialects found in the various regions of Japan. Each region has different sound system, grammar and vocabularies.
In order to show politeness and formality in spoken Japanese, Japan has an extensive grammatical system which is divided into three main levels. The level of speech used depends on who you talk to. The first level is the plain form (Kudaketa) which is casual Japanese language, normally used among friends and with people whom you are close with. The second level is the simple polite form (Teineigo) which is neutral Japanese language. The third level is the honorific form (Keigo) which is a very polite form of Japanese language, normally used in service industries.
Written Language
Written Japanese is a mixture of three writing systems. The three scripts include Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana.
Kanji is Chinese characters that are imported from China which is use for to write nouns, adjectives, adverbs and verbs. The other two sets are Japanese syllabaries systems (Kana).
Hiragana is derived from the Chinese cursive script which is used only for grammatical endings of verbs, nouns, and adjectives and other words that are not used in Kanji.
Katakana is developed from a part of Chinese characters which are more angular and is used for writing loan words, persons’ names and geographical places that cannot be written in Kanji.
Roma-ji is Romanized Japanese that is used to help foreign learners read Japanese without learning the Japanese characters and for inputting text into the computer.
Japanese is the only official language in Japan. Being treated as the first language by many locals, Japanese is the main mode of communication. However, in Tokyo, there are several mode of communication. Besides Japanese, English is widely spoken by the residents of Tokyo. Some other languages that are used include Chinese and Korean etc which are most probably due to the presence of their population in Tokyo.
There are mainly two forms of Japanese language- standard Japanese (Hyojungo) and common language (Kyotsugo). Hyojungo is used widely in schools and on television. Standard Japanese (Hyojungo) is the language spoken in Tokyo.
Japanese language has many different dialects found in the various regions of Japan. Each region has different sound system, grammar and vocabularies.
In order to show politeness and formality in spoken Japanese, Japan has an extensive grammatical system which is divided into three main levels. The level of speech used depends on who you talk to. The first level is the plain form (Kudaketa) which is casual Japanese language, normally used among friends and with people whom you are close with. The second level is the simple polite form (Teineigo) which is neutral Japanese language. The third level is the honorific form (Keigo) which is a very polite form of Japanese language, normally used in service industries.
Written Language
Written Japanese is a mixture of three writing systems. The three scripts include Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana.
Kanji is Chinese characters that are imported from China which is use for to write nouns, adjectives, adverbs and verbs. The other two sets are Japanese syllabaries systems (Kana).
Hiragana is derived from the Chinese cursive script which is used only for grammatical endings of verbs, nouns, and adjectives and other words that are not used in Kanji.
Katakana is developed from a part of Chinese characters which are more angular and is used for writing loan words, persons’ names and geographical places that cannot be written in Kanji.
Roma-ji is Romanized Japanese that is used to help foreign learners read Japanese without learning the Japanese characters and for inputting text into the computer.
Indigenous Groups
Background & History of Ainu
The Ainu are the indigenous groups of Japan. They are the descendants of the early inhabitants originating in Hokkaido, who had their own language and culture. They have been living in Hokkaido, northern Tohoku, Kurile Islands and Sakhalin. However, only a minority of the Ainu population remains in Hokkaido.
In the late 19th century, Japanese discriminate against the Ainu people by imposing laws and policies to ban the Ainu language and seizing their land. The hunting and religious practices were also prohibited by Japan. They were even restricted to farm on government provided plots.
As the Ainu people depend heavily on hunting, fishing, farming, and selling crafts for survival, they have to fight for cultural survival acceptance.
It was only in 6 June 2008, the Ainu people then gained recognition by Japan. It was till then discrimination against the Ainu people was put to an end.
Appearance & Culture of Ainu people
The appearance of the Ainu people is a major contrast from the Japanese. The physical traits of the Ainu people are so different from the Japanese that their origin is uncertain.
Unlike the Japanese men, the Ainu men have long beard and thick wavy hair. It was part of their culture to stop shaving at a certain age.
Both the Ainu men and women wore earrings and keep shoulder length hair. The Ainu usually eat meat that they hunt for. Some examples of the food they eat flesh or bear and horse etc. They also eat roasted and boiled fish. The Ainu people live in reed-thatched huts and they have very few furniture.
The Ainu are the indigenous groups of Japan. They are the descendants of the early inhabitants originating in Hokkaido, who had their own language and culture. They have been living in Hokkaido, northern Tohoku, Kurile Islands and Sakhalin. However, only a minority of the Ainu population remains in Hokkaido.
In the late 19th century, Japanese discriminate against the Ainu people by imposing laws and policies to ban the Ainu language and seizing their land. The hunting and religious practices were also prohibited by Japan. They were even restricted to farm on government provided plots.As the Ainu people depend heavily on hunting, fishing, farming, and selling crafts for survival, they have to fight for cultural survival acceptance.
It was only in 6 June 2008, the Ainu people then gained recognition by Japan. It was till then discrimination against the Ainu people was put to an end.
Appearance & Culture of Ainu people
The appearance of the Ainu people is a major contrast from the Japanese. The physical traits of the Ainu people are so different from the Japanese that their origin is uncertain.
Unlike the Japanese men, the Ainu men have long beard and thick wavy hair. It was part of their culture to stop shaving at a certain age.
Both the Ainu men and women wore earrings and keep shoulder length hair. The Ainu usually eat meat that they hunt for. Some examples of the food they eat flesh or bear and horse etc. They also eat roasted and boiled fish. The Ainu people live in reed-thatched huts and they have very few furniture.
Traditions
Definition: Traditions is the passing down of elements of a culture, such as customs and beliefs, from one generation to the next.
Kimono
Kimono is a traditional form of Japanese-style clothing (Wafaku) that is worn by both Japanese men and women. In the past, the Kimono is worn by the Japanese people daily. However, due to heavy influences by the westerners, the Japanese nowadays wear Western-style clothes (Yofuku) as part of everyday life.
Today, Kimono is often worn by the older women or when attending formal or special ceremonial occasions. Such occasions include the New Year, wedding ceremonies, attending traditional arts such as tea ceremony and ikebana class.
Distinguished by the style, method of weaving, colour and designs of fabric, each type of Kimono caters to the various occasions and seasons. The choice of the type of Kimono is dependent on the age and marital status and the formality of the occasion.
There are many different kinds of Kimono for both Japanese men and women. Kimono for the men are black and for the woman are in a variety of colours. There are various different types of kimono for use at different times and on different occasions.
Below are pictures which show how to wear Kimono appropriately for both men and women.
Kimono
Kimono is a traditional form of Japanese-style clothing (Wafaku) that is worn by both Japanese men and women. In the past, the Kimono is worn by the Japanese people daily. However, due to heavy influences by the westerners, the Japanese nowadays wear Western-style clothes (Yofuku) as part of everyday life.
Today, Kimono is often worn by the older women or when attending formal or special ceremonial occasions. Such occasions include the New Year, wedding ceremonies, attending traditional arts such as tea ceremony and ikebana class.
Distinguished by the style, method of weaving, colour and designs of fabric, each type of Kimono caters to the various occasions and seasons. The choice of the type of Kimono is dependent on the age and marital status and the formality of the occasion.There are many different kinds of Kimono for both Japanese men and women. Kimono for the men are black and for the woman are in a variety of colours. There are various different types of kimono for use at different times and on different occasions.
Below are pictures which show how to wear Kimono appropriately for both men and women.
Here are some examples of the different types of Kimono:
Furisode is the most formal Kimono with very long sleeves that is worn by girls and young women who are single. Brightly coloured, it catches the attention of the guys and signal to them that they are available for marriage.
Tomesode is a formal kimono with sleeves of regular length for married women.
Yukata is a cotton kimono that can be worn after bath, for going out or as a nightwear and people usually wear yukata in ryokan which is a traditional Japanese inn.
Geisha
Geisha is an important aspect in the Japanese tradition. They are professional female entertainers who perform different kinds of Japanese traditional arts such as dance and playing musical instruments for guests during meals, banquets and other occasions. Besides being well trained in performing arts, they also attend lessons to improve their computer skills and English communication skills. Two basic types of geisha include tachikata and jikata. Tachikata are younger geisha who dance and jikata are older women who sing or play instruments. 
Tea Ceremony
The Japanese tea ceremony (Cha-no-yu) is a traditional ritual which involves preparing powdered green tea (Macha) and enjoying the taste of tea. It is influenced by Zen Buddhism. Learning the tea rituals is essential in order participate in a tea ceremony.
Ikebana
Ikebana refers to flower arrangement. During the Muromachi period, ikebana is introduced to Japan along with tea ceremony and other Zen art. Flowers are arranged as a form of creative art and not solely for decoration purposes. There are various styles of arranging the flowers such as nageire and moribana.
Customs & Etiquettes
There are etiquettes which you have to follow when entering a Ryokan. Upon arrival, shoes have to be taken off at the entrance and slipper which is provided for indoor use have to be worn. However, slippers are not allowed on the tatami. Hence, it has to be taken off at the entrance before you enter the tatami room. Most ryokans have large communal bathing facilities. The common bath is used by all guests. Before entering, rinse yourself with warm water. Do take note to ensure the cleanliness of the bath when leaving.
Cultures
Definition: Culture is a multidimensional term, one that encompasses both the tangible: buildings and artefacts, and the intangible: values and attitudes.
According to ICOMOS, culture refers to “the whole complex of distinctive spiritual, material, intellectual and emotional features that characterize a community, society or social group. It includes not only the arts and literature, but also modes of life, the fundamental rights of the human being, value systems, traditions and beliefs. Culture encompasses the living or the contemporary characteristics and values of a community as well as those that have survived from the past.”
Religion
Many Japanese do not believe in any particular religion, instead they are devoted to more than one religious conviction. Syncretism is one of the main charcteristic of the Japanese religion. It is natural for a Japanese to attend a wedding at a Christian Church and go to a funeral at a Buddhist temple. The Japanese considered themselves to be both Shintorist and Buddhist. In the sixth century when Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Shinto and Buddhist beliefs began to interact. These are the two major religions in Japan. This defines the characteristic of Japanese religion. Other array of religions that the Japanese believes include Confucianism, Islam and Christianity.
Here is a video of the two major religions in Japan- Shintoism and Buddhism
Shinto is a Japan’s native religion which stands for "the way of gods". Shinto’s concept is very similar to Animism. For ancient Japanese, the god is found in sprits and they are elsewhere such as mountains, oceans, rivers, animals, plants, houses and stones. The great variety of gods is known as “The eight hundred myriads”. Shito is deeply rooted in the local religious traditions, however it does not integrate any sacred writings.
Takoyaki/ Octopus Ball: Osaka
Miso/ Soybean paste: Nagoya
Okomoniyaki/ Pan Cake: Hiroshima
Hakata Ramen: Fukuoka
Sushi: Tokyo
Tempura: Kyoto
Besides these delicacies, you will also be able to find many other varieties of Japanese sumptuous food such as Sukiyaki, Sashimi, Yakitori, Tonkatsu, Shabu-Shabu, Soba and Udon etc.
Sushi is the most famous Japanese dish.In the Edo period, "sushi" is known to be pickled fish conserved in vinegar. Today sushi can be defined as a dish containing rice which has been prepared with sushi vinegar. There are many different types of sushi such as Nigiri and Temaki.
A popular drink in Japan is Nihonshu, aka Japanese Sake, which is an alcoholic drink produces in Niigata made from rice and seed malt, and brewed using traditional Japanese methods. It can be served hot at a certain temperature, at room temperature or chilled.
According to ICOMOS, culture refers to “the whole complex of distinctive spiritual, material, intellectual and emotional features that characterize a community, society or social group. It includes not only the arts and literature, but also modes of life, the fundamental rights of the human being, value systems, traditions and beliefs. Culture encompasses the living or the contemporary characteristics and values of a community as well as those that have survived from the past.”
Religion
Many Japanese do not believe in any particular religion, instead they are devoted to more than one religious conviction. Syncretism is one of the main charcteristic of the Japanese religion. It is natural for a Japanese to attend a wedding at a Christian Church and go to a funeral at a Buddhist temple. The Japanese considered themselves to be both Shintorist and Buddhist. In the sixth century when Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Shinto and Buddhist beliefs began to interact. These are the two major religions in Japan. This defines the characteristic of Japanese religion. Other array of religions that the Japanese believes include Confucianism, Islam and Christianity.
Here is a video of the two major religions in Japan- Shintoism and Buddhism
Shinto is a Japan’s native religion which stands for "the way of gods". Shinto’s concept is very similar to Animism. For ancient Japanese, the god is found in sprits and they are elsewhere such as mountains, oceans, rivers, animals, plants, houses and stones. The great variety of gods is known as “The eight hundred myriads”. Shito is deeply rooted in the local religious traditions, however it does not integrate any sacred writings.
Buddhism is originated in India and was transmitted to Japan via China and Korea in the mid-sixth century and exerted profound influence on Japanese culture.
Although religion does not play a vital role in the everyday life of the Japanese, the Japanese will still observes the religious rituals during festival celebrations and ceremonies like births, marriages and funerals.
Religious Festivals & Events
There are numerous local festivals (Matsuri) in Japan because almost every shrine has its own festival. Most festivals are held on once a year.
Jinja refers to Shinto shrine which can be found throughout Japan. During the different festivals, the Japanese will go to the Jinja to pray.
Seven Five Three Festival (Shichi-go-san) is a festival where girls and boys of three years old, boys of five and girls of seven years old dress up in Kimono and then go to a local shrine to pray for good health and growth.
Coming of Age Ceremony (Seijin shiki) is celebrated on the second Monday of January by all youngsters who turn twenty years old. This is the age where they begin their adulthood and celebrate new beginnings of discovery in their life.
Arts
There are many forms of traditional performing arts which are still performed in Japan today.
Kabuki is the most well known traditional stage entertainment for common people throughout the Tokugawa (Edo) period. Introduced in the early seventeenth century, it is a form of theatre which emphasizes dance and music.
Noh is Japan’s oldest theatrical arts originated in the 14th century. It is a complex art form which integrates song, dance and mask theatre.
Cuisine
In the recent years, Japanese cuisine has became more familiarised and appreciated around the world. Japan is offers a large variety of dishes that is famous for its quality and tastes. The local delicacy varies in different regions of Japan. Below is a list of Japan’s delicacies found in the different regions:
Seafood: Hokkaido
Takoyaki/ Octopus Ball: Osaka
Miso/ Soybean paste: Nagoya
Okomoniyaki/ Pan Cake: Hiroshima
Hakata Ramen: Fukuoka
Sushi: Tokyo
Tempura: Kyoto
Besides these delicacies, you will also be able to find many other varieties of Japanese sumptuous food such as Sukiyaki, Sashimi, Yakitori, Tonkatsu, Shabu-Shabu, Soba and Udon etc.
Sushi is the most famous Japanese dish.In the Edo period, "sushi" is known to be pickled fish conserved in vinegar. Today sushi can be defined as a dish containing rice which has been prepared with sushi vinegar. There are many different types of sushi such as Nigiri and Temaki.
A popular drink in Japan is Nihonshu, aka Japanese Sake, which is an alcoholic drink produces in Niigata made from rice and seed malt, and brewed using traditional Japanese methods. It can be served hot at a certain temperature, at room temperature or chilled.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Introduction to Japan
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan!
Japan Overview
Japan is a country with a enriching and unique culture where it is famous for sightseeing, shopping, eating and many other forms of entertainment.
Many tourists travel to Japan to experience its exotic cultures and gracious hospitality of the locals. Japan’s culture is very extreme from one region to another as certain regions are heavily influenced by the westerners. In cities that are rich in heritage such as Kyoto and Nara, one will be able to experience the Japanese cultural traditions. These cities are well known for their museums, temples and tea ceremonies etc. However, in other cities of Japan where the culture is commodified by the westerners, one gets to experience the modern and vibrant pop cultures.
GeographySituated in the northeast of Asia, Japan is an archipelago consisting of four big islands, namely Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. The main Islands are then further divided into nine regions: Hokkaido, Tohoku, Chubu, Chugoku, Kanto, Shikoku, Kinki/ Kansai, Kyushu and Okinawa. Japan has a land area of 377,873 square kilometres with a population of over 126 million. It consists of mostly mountainous areas with a few large plains and it has a total of 47 prefectures.
The capital of Japan is Tokyo, which is the main city of Kanto. Located in the middle of the Japan archipelago, Kanto is the largest plain in Japan where one third of the Japanese population live. Formerly known as Edo, Tokyo is the largest city in Japan which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan. Tokyo is a bustling city which is renowned for its Harajuku culture and many entertaining tourists’ attractions.
ClimateThe climate in Japan can be divided into six categories since it ranges from subarctic in the northern most areas to the subtropical in the southernmost regions.
Hokkaido (Severely cold in winter and cool in summer)
The Japan Sea Coastal Area (Heavy snow in winter)
The Pacific Ocean side (Usually clear days and not too cold in winter)
Central Highland (Cold in winter and cool in summer)
Inland Sea (Mild throughout the year without much rain)
The Southwest Islands (Warm winter, hot summer and much rain)
SeasonsThere is a total of four distinct seasons in Japan:
Spring (March to May)
Summer (June to August)
Autumn (September to November)
Winter (December to February)
Here are some tips for you when travelling to Japan:
Take note that the rainy season (Tsuyu) is from mid-June to mid-July and the typhoon season is in September. Hence, it is best not to travel during this period of time. High peak season for travel is during March to May as this is the period when the Cherry blossoms.
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