JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Tengu Explained: Japan’s Legendary Trickster and Forest Guardian ~ Summary “Tengu” is a mythical creature from Japanese folklore. They are considered mysterious mountain spirits who can act as both protectors and tricksters.
What Is a “Tengu”? Discover Japan’s Mysterious Long-Nosed Mountain Spirit Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Why Do Japanese People Bow and Nod So Much?Understanding Japan’s Unique Non-Verbal Culture~ High context culture: A high context culture is one where people rely heavily on non-verbal cues, shared experiences, and implied meanings to communicate, rather than saying everything directly with words. In such cultures, understanding often depends on the
No Words Needed: The Role of Bowing and Nodding in Japanese Daily Life Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Meet the “Kappa“: Japan’s Legendary Water Creature and Its Cultural Role ~ Summary “Kappa” is a mysterious water spirit from Japanese folklore. “Kappa” reflects Japan’s deep connection to nature and serve as a warning for kids.
“Kappa” in Japan: Guardian, Trickster, and Cucumber-Loving Legend Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ “Hara Hachibunme“: The Japanese Secret to Eating Healthy and Mindfully ~ Tap to listen: “Hara Hachi Bunme” ©ondoku3.com Summary “Hara Hachibunme” means you should stop eating when you’re about 80% full.
What Is “Hara Hachibunme”? Discover Japan’s Traditional Eating Wisdom Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Neither Fork Nor Spoon: The Unique World of Japanese Chopsticks ~ Hashioki (chopstick rest) Summary Chopsticks are utensils made of two thin sticks held in one hand to pick up and move food. There is also a partner item called a hashioki, which is used to rest chopsticks.
A Fun Guide to Japanese Chopsticks: How to Use Them and its Special Partner Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why were “tatami” mats chosen by Japanese? ~ Summary “Tatami” is becoming less common in modern homes, and while it’s important not to step on the edges. Its color naturally changes from green to yellow over time.
What Is “Tatami”? Discover Traditional Japanese Flooring and Its Hidden Comfort – Part 2 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why were “tatami” mats chosen by Japanese? ~ “Tatami” dates back to the 8th century, used by aristocrats and samurai during the Nara period. At first, it was more like a mat rather than covering the whole floor. By the Edo period, “tatami” had spread to ordinary people’s homes, becoming
What Is “Tatami”? Discover Traditional Japanese Flooring and Its Hidden Comfort – Part 1 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ What we can learn from “Wabi sabi” ~ Summary “Wabi sabi” is a Japanese way of seeing beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural aging of things, teaching us to appreciate simplicity and the fleeting moments of life.
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Understanding the Beauty of Imperfection: “Wabi sabi” in Everyday Life ~ Summary “Wabi sabi” is a Japanese way of seeing beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and the natural aging of things, teaching us to appreciate simplicity and the fleeting moments of life.
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Is the world’s oldest national anthem a love song? ~ Kimigayo wa :“Kimi” can refer to the emperor, or more broadly, to someone important to you like a beloved leader or even a loved one. “yo” means “era” or “reign,” so together it wishes for their lasting time. Chiyo ni
