culture
Japan is famous not only for its advanced technology and unique culture, but also for its intense work ethic.For decades, Japanese office workers have been associated with long hours, late nights, and a word that shocked the world: karoshi — death from overwork. Why does this happen in a country that values harmony and discipline?And why do so many employees still find it difficult to leave the office on time or take their paid vacation? This article explores the cultural and structural reasons behind Japan’s overtime problem — from social pressure and “unwritten rules” to the tragic consequences of karoshi ...
The Daruma doll is one of Japan’s most famous lucky charms.Round, hollow, and weighted at the bottom, this figure is modeled after Bodhidharma—the founder of Zen Buddhism. Far more than a souvenir, the Daruma symbolizes perseverance, determination, and hope.Its blank eyes and bold colors make it both a cultural icon and a tool for setting personal goals. A Brief History and Legends Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th–6th century AD.He is traditionally credited as the transmitter of Ch’an (Zen) to China. Little is known about his life, but over time many legends emerged: Nine years of ...
A ryokan is not just a place to sleep.It’s an experience — a window into Japan’s harmony, simplicity, and hospitality. From tatami floors and futon bedding to kaiseki meals and onsen baths,every detail tells a story of tradition. When you stay at a ryokan, time slows down.You begin to feel Japan’s rhythm — quiet, graceful, and sincere. A Glimpse into History Ryokans began in the Edo period (1603–1868).They were simple inns for travelers on long journeys. Even now, their essence hasn’t changed.A warm welcome, local food, and a peaceful atmosphere remain at the heart of every stay. Modern ryokans may ...
In Japan, it is common to see "no tattoos allowed" signs at establishments such as restaurants, public bathing areas (Onsen), gyms, public swimming pools. But why is this? Tattooing is the most misunderstood form of art in contemporary Japan. Demonized by centuries of prohibitions and rarely discussed today in civilized circles, people with tattoos are outcasts in their own country — banned from many beaches, pools, and public baths. Reason Ask anyone to explain the reason for this vilification and most will blame the yakuza and their penchant for body ink; better-informed citizens may even trace the roots of ...
Escalators are used around the world in places where elevators would be impractical. Principal areas of usage include department stores, shopping malls, airports, transit systems (railway/railroad stations), convention centers, hotels, arenas, stadiums, and public buildings. An escalator is a vertical transportation device in the form of a moving staircase – a conveyor that carries people between floors of a building. Like vending machines, canned coffee, and convenience stores, escalators seem to be ubiquitous in modern Japan. This is especially true in Tokyo, with its many multi-storied buildings with basements, and if you take public transportation, as you descend (and ascend) ...
When you walk through a Japanese neighborhood, you might notice small plates attached near the entrance of houses. These are called Hyousatsu (nameplates), and they carry the family name of the people living inside.More than just a sign, they are a cultural marker of identity and tradition in Japan. What Is a Hyousatsu? A Hyousatsu is a nameplate that usually shows the family’s surname.Sometimes the first names of family members are added as well.For visitors, postal workers, and delivery staff, the Hyousatsu makes it easy to confirm that the right person lives there. Designs and Materials Traditionally, Hyousatsu were made ...
Keiro-no-hi, Respect for the Aged Day is a national holiday, was established in 1966. It was first set on the date of 15th September though it was moved to the 3rd Monday of September to achieve a long weekend since 2003. The day is to express appreciation and gratitude for aged people for decades of their dedication to the family as well as to the society, also to celebrate their health and longevity. Celebration party would be held in the unit of a family or on a community basis with a feast and a gift. Hotels and restaurants offer the ...
Every year, schools across Japan hold a lively event known as Undo-kai (運動会) — the school Sports Day.It’s not just about winning races or games.Undo-kai is a day that brings together children, teachers, and families to celebrate teamwork, effort, and community spirit. A Celebration Beyond the Classroom Traditionally held in autumn, Undo-kai has long been one of the most anticipated school events in Japan.With recent climate changes and hotter autumns, many schools now host it in May or June, when the weather is milder. The entire school spends weeks practicing dances, relays, and fun team competitions.Children are usually divided into ...
Every autumn, Japan celebrates Tsukimi (月見) — the moon-viewing festival — to appreciate the beauty of the full moon and to give thanks for the year’s harvest. The tradition dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), when aristocrats would board boats to admire the moon reflected on the surface of the water or in their cups of sake.What they cherished was not the moon itself, but its reflection — a symbol of elegance and refined sensibility in Japanese culture. They composed and recited poems under the pale glow of the moon, expressing gratitude and the fleeting beauty of the season. ...
How does it sound that there is no cleaner stationed in school in Japan? Public school is cleaned by children themselves. Cleaning time is even set into their daily time table, about 20 minutes. Bloomed and swept, even regularly waxed by them. While in a conventional school, classroom floors are parquet, those of a modern school building are carpeted so that they are vacuumed. Cleaning task is undertaken by the team Children are divided into teams and deployed to every corner of the school. It gives them an opportunity to learn how to operate cleaning and how to cooperate each ...
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