Category: Aesthetics and Philosophy
Discover the Essence of Japanese Arts and Thought
This category highlights the philosophy and aesthetics behind cultural treasures such as the tea ceremony, flower arrangement (ikebana), calligraphy, and other timeless traditions.
Explore how these practices reflect Japanese values of harmony, respect, and mindfulness, and learn their enduring significance in daily life and society.
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The Life-Changing Philosophy of Danshari
LikeDanshari: Beyond Tidying – A Path to Simplicity and Freedom The global phenomenon sparked by Marie Kondo’s The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up has brought the power of decluttering into the spotlight.Yet, in Japan, another philosophy exists that focuses on letting go of physical possessions to achieve mental freedom: Danshari. In this article, we’ll explore…
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Western vs. Japanese Mindfulness: A Tool for Results or a Way of Life?
LikeTrue stillness begins when we forget the word “mindfulness” In today’s fast-paced world, it’s almost impossible to go a day without hearing the word “mindfulness.”As we’re constantly bombarded with information and tasks, our minds often become scattered – a state of “mindlessness.”This leads to common mental health challenges like stress and a lack of focus.As…
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The Aesthetics of Mujōkan: The Japanese Spirit
LikeWhat is Mujōkan? The Precious Radiance Within a Fleeting World In this post, I want to explore mujōkan (無常感), a sense of transience that has become a core aesthetic for the Japanese people, deeply influenced by Zen and Buddhist thought. The beginning and the end, prosperity and decline, life and death – everything in this…
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Two “Paths” Woven into Japanese Culture: Buddhism and Zen
LikeIs There Truly a “Difference” Between Buddhism and Zen? “What’s the difference between Buddhism and Zen?”This is a fundamental question many foreigners ask, and it’s likely one that many Japanese people would find difficult to answer.In our daily lives in Japan, Buddhism is often associated with the end of life – funerals and graves –…
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An Invitation to Kadō: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging
LikeDelving 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…
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Bushido in Japanese Major Leaguers
LikeThe 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…
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What is Sado? Exploring the Significance of Japanese Tea Ceremony in Modern Japan
LikeDeepening 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…
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Why Are Westerners So Astonished by Japan’s Safety?
LikeJapan’s safety: Lost wallets, safe night streets, and the culture behind it all. Placing a laptop on a cafe table and leaving it unattended, a young elementary school student riding a crowded train alone, a bicycle leaning against a wall without a lock—for those of us living in Japan, these are completely normal sights. However,…
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What Is Wabi-Sabi? Applying Japan’s Beauty Philosophy to Modern Life
LikeWabi-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…
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What Is the Ako Roshi (47 Ronin) Story and Its Lesson on Loyalty?
LikeExploring 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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