A Complete Guide to Japanese Culture.

Japan has a very interesting culture; on the one hand it is steeped in the deepest of traditions dating back thousands of years; on the other it is a society which is continuously changing along with continually shifting fashions and technological development that constantly pushes back the boundaries of the possible. This is part of what makes it such a fascinating country to visit. If you are looking for something different you must visit this place!

Culture

Early Japanese culture was heavily influenced by China. During the Edo era, Japan exercised a strict isolationist policy, closing its doors to all relationships with the outside world. This refined a distinct Japanese culture.

After the decline of that era in 1868, Japan reversed this practice, adopting different cultural practices from all over the world and mixing them with what was established during the Edo era. Over the years, Western culture has influenced many characteristics of Japanese culture which includes art, lifestyle and food.

Language

The national language is Japanese, which is the predominant spoken language across the country. Old Japanese, or "Kanbun", originated from China and the earliest Japanese text, the "Kojiki," was written in the early 8th century and was written primarily in ancient Chinese characters. Modern Japanese developed during the Edo period, between 1603 and 1868.

Religion

There are two main religions in Japan: Shinto and Buddhism. Shinto is a Japanese religion, while Buddhism was carried from China in the 6th century. A recent poll found that 39% of Japanese people identify as Buddhist, 3.9% as Shinto and 2.3% as Christian.

Major Celebrations

In Japan, the largest holiday is the New Year's celebration. During spring and summer, celebrations for the gods of the land and sea, or Matsuri, take place. Each town holds its own Matsuri, and these celebrations are widely attended by all.

1st January - New Year’s Day

11th February – National Foundation Day

3rd May -  Constitution Day

4th May – Greenery Day (originally held on 29th April to commemorate Emperor Showa’s birthday. The name was changed to Greenery Day in 1989 when the Emperor died)

Second Monday in October - Health and Sports Day

3rd November – Culture Day

Cuisine

Across the nation, the Japanese are primarily fish eaters. Japan is the number one fish importer in the world, consuming around 12% of the world's caught fish.

The most well-known Japanese dish is probably sushi, a dish that includes fresh fish, seaweed and lightly-seasoned rice. There are more than 50 types of sushi which includes Sake Nigiri, Ikura Gunkan and many more. Ordering sushi is never a difficult task until you visit Japan. Most importantly, even with English translations you might still be confused on what kind of fish the sushi is made from and how the sushi is made - raw, broiled or barbecued. However, Japanese also eat beef, poultry and pork as part of their daily diets.

Dessert

The most famous dessert of Japan is Shiruko. Shiruko is a Japanese dessert soup that is made with crushed azuki beans and mochi.

It has a number of variations that include both watery and thick chilly-like soups. Shiruko is a winter dish that's normally served hot with a small salty side item.