Category: Japanese Spirit

  • An Invitation to Kadō: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

    An Invitation to Kadō: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

    Delving into the Profound World of Arranging Flowers To Western readers, the term “Ikebana” might be familiar as a delicate facet of Japanese culture.However, the profound spirituality and philosophy of Kadō as a “Way” or “Path,” hidden beneath its superficial beauty, may not yet be fully appreciated.Kadō transcends the mere technique of beautifully arranging flowers…

  • Bushido in Japanese Major Leaguers

    Bushido in Japanese Major Leaguers

    The Samurai Spirit Alive in Modern Times Major League Baseball (MLB) is witnessing the remarkable success of many Japanese players, led by Shohei Ohtani.Beyond their exceptional baseball skills, their dedication to their teams, spirit of fair play, and off-field conduct have garnered admiration from people across borders.These aspects seem to resonate deeply with the spirit…

  • Okinoshima: The Mysteriously Veiled “Island Where Gods Dwell”

    Okinoshima: The Mysteriously Veiled “Island Where Gods Dwell”

    The Spirit of Japan’s Sacred Sites Japan has a long history of revering nature as sacred and strictly limiting access to certain places.For instance, the Nintoku Tenno Ryo Kofun (tomb of Emperor Nintoku), managed by the Imperial Household Agency, is a site of immense scale where entry to the burial mound itself is forbidden.While rigorously…

  • The Heart of “Do”: Beyond the Western “Way”

    The Heart of “Do”: Beyond the Western “Way”

    An Invitation to Japan’s Spiritual Quest As you delve into Japanese culture, you’ll likely notice the frequent appearance of the word “Do” (道) in various disciplines, such as Kendo, Judo, Chado (the Way of Tea), and Kado (the Way of Flowers).These aren’t merely martial arts techniques, flower arranging skills, or tea preparation rituals. Hidden within…

  • What is Bushido?: The Spirit of Bushido Seen in Modern Japan

    What is Bushido?: The Spirit of Bushido Seen in Modern Japan

    What is the Spirit of Bushido? Bushido is an ethical framework that emerged in feudal Japan as a code of conduct for the samurai, the warrior class.The word “Bushi” (武士) refers to the warrior themselves, while “Do” (道) signifies a way of life or philosophy.Its origins are believed to date back to the Kamakura period,…

  • What is Sado? Exploring the Significance of Japanese Tea Ceremony in Modern Japan

    What is Sado? Exploring the Significance of Japanese Tea Ceremony in Modern Japan

    Deepening Understanding of Japanese Tea Ceremony The Japanese Tea Ceremony, known as Sadō (Chadō) or Chanoyu, is a tradition that extends far beyond the simple act of preparing and drinking tea.It is deeply rooted in spirituality and cultural significance, setting it apart from the “tea time” generally understood in the West.This article delves into the…

  • What Is Wabi-Sabi? Applying Japan’s Beauty Philosophy to Modern Life

    What Is Wabi-Sabi? Applying Japan’s Beauty Philosophy to Modern Life

    Wabi-sabi is the Quietness Within the Cracks Modern urban life often comes with a relentless pressure for perfection, newness, and flawlessness.In our homes, our appearance, and our lives themselves, there’s a constant feeling that we need to be “better.”Yet, amidst this endless pursuit, many people yearn for authenticity and a sense of peace.If you are…

  • How Does Shohei Ohtani Reflect Traditional Japanese Moral Values?

    How Does Shohei Ohtani Reflect Traditional Japanese Moral Values?

    Shohei Ohtani: A Phenomenon and the Japanese Spirit Shohei Ohtani, a player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has garnered global attention for his exceptional baseball talent.However, his appeal extends beyond his unprecedented two-way abilities to the values he demonstrates through his character and actions.This article analyzes the numerous ways Ohtani has been praised by the…

  • What Were the Genkō (Mongol) Invasions of Japan? A Historical Overview

    What Were the Genkō (Mongol) Invasions of Japan? A Historical Overview

    An Epic Tale of Samurai vs. Nomadic Horsemen Have you ever heard about the first time Japan faced a full-scale foreign invasion?That moment came in the 13th century when the mighty Mongol Empire twice attempted to conquer the island nation in events known as the “Mongol Invasions” or “Genko”.Against the backdrop of a nomadic horse-riding…

  • What Is the Ako Roshi (47 Ronin) Story and Its Lesson on Loyalty?

    What Is the Ako Roshi (47 Ronin) Story and Its Lesson on Loyalty?

    Exploring the Modern Japanese Psyche Through the Tale of the Ako Roshi There is an indispensable story for deeply understanding the spirit of the Japanese people.It is the tale of the Ako Roshi, also known as the “Chushingura” (The Treasury of Loyal Retainers), who upheld unwavering loyalty to avenge their lord and met a tragic…

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Takeshi.K

A creator sharing the beauty of Japan with the world. I run a design firm and SHIBUMIWORKS, an apparel brand featuring Japanese traditional patterns and kanji. This blog explores Japanese culture, food, history, and travel.

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