JAPANESE CULTURE AND TRADITIONS

Do you know Japanese people always display modesty and humility? People often bow to convey the message: ‘’I
am not above you. I respect you.’’ Bowing longer with a higher degree of angle means more respect.

Good morning, everyone, we are Maboroshi No Umi (幻の海) – Sea of Illusions. Our topic is about the Japanese
culture and traditions. What is Japanese like? Japanese culture is a set of values that puts importance on social
harmony and hard work. Up until the 10th century, Japanese culture was similar to the Chinese culture, but the
rise of the samurai in the Heian Period and the isolation during the Edo Period changed the rules of society.
Overall, the culture was influenced by the local Shinto religion, Buddhism, Confucianism and the limited natural
resources.

Since harmony is very important in Japan, there are many customs, traditions and etiquette rules to create social
bonding between people. Some of the interesting traditions that surprise foreigners are:

 Taking off shoes when entering someone’s house

 Wearing a mask when sick
 Not shaking hands and not hugging when meeting with loved ones
 Bowing 45 degrees to show respect

There are relatively a higher number of festivals in Japan compared to other countries because Japanese religions
are related to celebrating the harvest seasons and seasonal changes. Each of the 47 Japanese prefectures has a
different festival which usually takes place in the summer. Locals usually participate in these festivals by wearing a
yukata and sandals. The most famous Japanese festivals are:

 Gion Festival in Kyoto. The largest parade in Japan which started in the 800’s when there was an epidemic
similar to the Coronavirus.
 Awa Odori Festival in Tokushima. A Dance festival held during the Obon-Week (the week when the spirits
of the deceased are believed to visit the world).
 Nebuta Festival in Aomori. A festival dedicated to ancient warriors in Northern Japan.

Clothing in Japanese Culture – Kimono

Traditionally, Japanese people wear a one-piece garment called kimono which emerged during the Heian Period
(794-1185). Kimono is made out of silk and each motif has a meaning. The most common type of men's kimono
you'll see is the montsuki. Cranes represent longevity; pine-trees represent the new year; the Chrysanthemum
flower represents the imperial family. The summer kimono is called “yukata” and the wedding kimono is called
“uchikake.” Kimonos usually have long sleeves for wind to pass through and cool down the body. While children
wear kimono with bright colors and flower designs, the elderly wear simple kimonos with simple motifs.
Nowadays, Japanese people wear Western clothes at work and school but prefer kimono for social occasions and
ceremonies.

Japanese culture is a set of values that puts importance on social harmony and hard work. Harmony is very
important in Japan, so there are many customs, traditions and etiquette rules. Each of the 47 Japanese prefectures
has a different festival which usually takes place in the summer. The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment and
the national dress of Japan. Again, we are Sea of Illusions, thank you for listening to our presentation.