culture
What is Shichi-Go-San? Shichi-Go-San (literally “Seven-Five-Three”) is a traditional Japanese celebration held every year on November 15th. It marks an important rite of passage for children: three and seven-year-old girls, and three and five-year-old boys. Families visit Shinto shrines to express gratitude for healthy growth and to pray for future well-being. Origins and History The custom began during the Heian period (794–1185) among noble families. Each age represented a milestone: 3 years old – Children were allowed to grow out their short, shaved hairstyles. 5 years old (boys) – Boys wore hakama trousers for the first time. 7 years old ...
What is a Torii? A torii gate is a traditional Japanese structure that marks the entrance to a sacred space, most often a Shinto shrine. Passing through a torii means moving from the everyday, secular world into a spiritual realm. With their striking vermilion color and elegant shape, torii are one of the most iconic symbols of Japan. History and Meaning The origins of torii are not entirely clear, but they have been part of Japanese religious culture for centuries. The word "torii" is often translated as "bird perch," though its exact roots are debated. In Shinto belief, the torii ...
What Is Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year)? In Japan, New Year’s celebrations, called Oshogatsu (お正月), are the most important annual event. Unlike Western countries where December 31 is central, Japanese families focus on January 1–3, spending time with relatives, visiting shrines, and preparing symbolic food. It is a time for starting fresh, showing gratitude, and praying for health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead. Decorations for the New Year Kadomatsu (門松) Kadomatsu are bamboo and pine decorations placed at the entrance of homes or buildings. The bamboo represents growth and strength, while pine symbolizes longevity and resilience.They are meant to ...
Matsuri—Japanese festivals—are vibrant gatherings where communities celebrate the seasons, give thanks, and come together in joyful spirit. From the thunder of taiko drums and the glow of paper lanterns to the aroma of sizzling street food, a matsuri is less a performance than a living tradition that welcomes locals and visitors alike. What Is a Matsuri? At its heart, a matsuri is a community celebration often connected to a shrine, a seasonal milestone, or local history. While rooted in tradition, festivals are remarkably open: streets fill with music, dancers form circles you can join, and neighborhoods proudly showcase their ...
Omikuji (おみくじ) are traditional Japanese fortune slips found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.Visitors draw them to receive guidance or predictions about different aspects of life, such as health, love, business, or travel.The word omikuji comes from kuji (lottery), reflecting the random nature of drawing a slip. History of Omikuji The origins of omikuji can be traced back to the Heian period (794–1185).Initially, they were used for decision-making at temples, often to determine important matters by divine will.Over time, omikuji became more accessible and transformed into a fortune-telling practice for ordinary people. Types of Fortunes Daikichi (大吉) – Great Blessing ...
Ema (絵馬) are small wooden plaques sold at Shinto shrines in Japan.Visitors write their wishes or prayers on them and then hang the plaques at the shrine. The word ema literally means "picture horse"—originally, people offered horses to the gods, but over time this practice was replaced with wooden tablets. History of Ema The tradition of ema dates back to the Nara period (710–794).At first, real horses were given as offerings to deities for protection or blessings.Later, images of horses were drawn on wooden plaques instead, making the offering more symbolic and widely accessible.Today, ema can feature not only horses ...
An omamori is a traditional Japanese protective amulet given at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Often translated as a “lucky charm,” an omamori is better understood as a form of spiritual support, meant to offer protection and encouragement rather than guarantee specific outcomes. This article explains what omamori are, the meaning behind their different types, and how they are viewed in Japanese religious culture, helping first-time visitors understand their role with clarity and respect. What Is an Omamori? An omamori is a small amulet traditionally sold at shrines and temples. The word comes from the Japanese verb meaning “to ...
Understanding the Culture, Manners, and Meaning Behind This Everyday Tradition Have you ever wondered why Japanese people always remove their shoes before stepping indoors?For first-time visitors, this simple gesture might seem curious—but it carries deep cultural meaning rooted in respect, cleanliness, and harmony with nature. This article explores the story behind this unique custom, explains where and when to remove your shoes, and shares practical tips to help you follow Japanese etiquette with confidence. 🏠 The Cultural Meaning Behind Removing Shoes In Japan, cleanliness is more than a habit—it’s a reflection of one’s respect for others and for the home.Traditional ...
Understanding chopstick etiquette is essential for respecting Japanese culture and ensuring a pleasant dining experience. In Japan, using chopsticks correctly goes beyond basic manners—it reflects your awareness, upbringing, and respect toward others at the table. Here are 13 common chopstick taboos, known as “kiraibashi”, that adults should be especially mindful of. 1. Reversing Chopsticks (Kaeshi-bashi) When serving from a shared dish, some people reverse their chopsticks to avoid using the end that touched their mouth. However, this means using the part your hands touched, which is unhygienic. Additionally, the now-soiled tips are used again to eat, which looks unpleasant ...
Shogi is not simply the Japanese version of chess. It is a traditional board game shaped by Japanese ideas of discipline, reuse, and respect — values that continue to influence how the game is played, studied, and passed down today. By looking beyond the rules, shogi offers a window into how Japanese culture understands competition, growth, and human potential. What Is Shogi? Shogi is a Japanese strategy board game in which captured pieces can be reused, turning conflict into continuity rather than elimination. While often introduced as “Japanese chess,” this comparison only explains how shogi looks — not what ...
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