Random topics
A random handful of Japanese customs, with English explanations.
- Historykaido and shukubathe Edo highways and their post towns
- Martial Artsmawashithe thick belt a sumo wrestler wraps around the body and grips during a bout
- Conceptsyugendepth that is felt rather than shown
- Artsbunrakupuppet theater with three operators to a puppet
- Modern Japanfamily restaurantthe all-purpose chain restaurant, and the drink bar
- CraftsKiso hinokiprized cypress from a valley protected by a harsh Edo-era logging law
- Craftstatami craftsmanthe maker of tatami mats, a shrinking trade that still measures every room by hand
- Martial Artskiaithe shout that focuses breath and energy into a technique
- Clothingshichigosan formal wearthe special outfit children wear for the Shichi-Go-San ceremony
- Modern Japanokusuri techothe personal medication record book
- Mannersasking before you photographwhen you need permission
- ArtsOku no HosomichiBasho's travel account of the deep north