210 likes | 318 Views
Japanese Culture. Sumo Wrestling. 2,000 years old Rikishi- wrestler enter a heya mid teens to train where they must live with their trainer and his wife Sekitori- highest level of rank for a rikishi- only they are allowed to wear the knot on top of their head
E N D
Sumo Wrestling • 2,000 years old • Rikishi- wrestler enter a heya mid teens to train where they must live with their trainer and his wife • Sekitori- highest level of rank for a rikishi- only they are allowed to wear the knot on top of their head • Each level winner is rewarded (money): the higher the rank the more money they win • Rules are simple, the first to step outside the ring loses--- matches last a few seconds, no more than a minute • Sponsorships, generous donations from fans are common in the sport
Opening Ceremony: Each rikishi wears a very expensive silk apron provided to him by a fan.
Bonsai • Definition:A form of artistic expression and reverence to nature in place where limited space allows for few parks. (Growing miniature trees in containers). • Are actually real trees, not suitable for house plants. • Can sell for up to tens of thousands of dollars.
Geishas • Translates to “person of the arts” • First known geisha were men--performed dances, music and poetry • Extensively trained in art of ancient dance, singing, playing instruments, tea ceremony, dress (kimono), calligraphy and flower arranging • Two most famous hanimici (geisha quarters) are found in Tokyo and Kyoto • Still exist today, but in a minor role--mostly for tourists
Samurai • Samurai (warrior knights) waged fierce battles for control of the land • The Samurai was completely loyal to the emperor, who was no more than a figurehead in Japanese society • Shogun (most powerful samurai)- he controlled all of the land and the people living in it • Invention of the gun = the end of the samurai
Code of the Samurai • The samurai class developed a code of behavior that came to be called bushido 1. “The way of the warrior” 2. emphasized loyalty above all else 3. bravery, self-discipline and honor 4. If this was violated, he was expected to pay a penalty: seppuku (ritual suicide)
Ikebana- The Art of Flower Arranging • Started by a Buddhist monk in the early 15th century • Recreates elements of nature for the inside- seas, rivers, valleys and stresses the harmony of vases, stems, leaves, branches and flowers • Historically, specific guidelines were to be followed using geometric angles • More modern day examples stress choosing the flowers you like, suitability of those flower choices and an appropriate container (in respect for the guests who will see it) • This was reserved for the upper class, but was open to more people post WWII • About 3000 schools and 60,000 teachers • 15 million people practice Ikebana, mostly young women
Japanese Etiquette • Traditionally, Japanese people are polite and reserved • Tatemae- face you present to the world • Honne- true feelings don’t ignore true feelings • In order to keep a harmonious society, tatemae is very important • When coming over to someone’s house, bring a gift, an inexpensive food item, but it must be wrapped • Take off shoes and put on slippers, if you use the bathroom, you must put on a new pair of slippers • Chopsticks most used form of utensils- if you are having trouble it is okay to ask but they should never be stuck in a rice bowl- only at a funeral • Eating on the street, yawning and chewing gum in public is considered impolite
Japanese Food • Shashmi- raw seafood served with spicy wasabi and Sushi- raw or cooked seafood served in vinagered rice with vegetable • Sushi is very expensive and reserved for special occasions • Tempora- seafood and vegetables dipped in batter and then deep fried • Shabushbu- thin slices of beef with sesame sauce, vegetables in a broth • Yakatori- broiled chicken on a skewer with green peppers, garlic cloves and onions served with a tangy sauce
Education • Japanese student attend school 5 and a half days a week, 240 days a year • Schools emphasize the importance of groups • Education taken very seriously, with a focus on math and science • Juku- cram schools- are very popular ways to prepare for exams • Students study for years and cram for months to take the exams • 460 universities and more than 600 junior colleges and technical schools – very competitive • Graduation from a top university can guarantee a successful career