Japan Land of the Rising Sun Nippon: the Japanese word for “Japan” means “sun origin”

Tokyo with Mt. Fuji in background

Tokyo lights

Cherry blossoms – Japan’s unofficial national flower– has been celebrated for many centuries and holds a very prominent position in Japanese culture.

Traditional Architecture: Pagoda Replica of 950 year-old Buddhist temple

Matsue Castle Built in 1611 A.D. Is one of only about a dozen original castles in Japan, meaning that its castle tower has survived the wars, fires, earthquakes and anti-feudal activities of the post-feudal era (since 1868).

Samurai warriors

Tsunami damage – 2011 Natural hazards: tsunamis, earthquakes Man-made disaster – nuclear powerplant meltdown & explosion due to earthquake and tsunami

Terraced Rice Paddies

Japanese Weddings

Official Religion – Shinto(ism) Shinto is the name of the formal state religion of Japan that was first used in the 6th century A.D., although the roots of the religion go back to at least the 6th century B.C. Shinto understands that the kami not only exist as spiritual beings, but also in nature; they are within mountains, trees, rivers, and even geographical regions. In this sense, the kami are not like the all-powerful divine beings found in Western religion, but the abstract creative forces in nature. Other religions in Japan include Buddhism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam Read more: http://www.patheos.com/Library/Shinto.html#ixzz3UlBlCLyu

Shinto has no founder, no official sacred texts, and no formalized system of doctrine, but it does have shrines with rules. No photos may be taken in the inner shrine. This photo is of the outer shrine. This shrine has to be rebuilt every 20 years, so there is an empty lot next to it for the next rebuilding (in 2033).

Wedding Reception Guests attending a Japanese wedding reception are expected to bring a cash gift. Sometimes, the amount is specified on the invitation. Typically the amount depends on the guest's relationship with the couple. The cash is presented in a decorative envelope called Shugi-bukuro. Bride’s reception gown

No chairs: a low table with mats to kneel on.

New Year’s Food: Osechi ryori Stores were closed for 3 days, and these foods could sit out for that time without spoiling.

Japanese Etiquette and Taboos Chopsticks – DON”T Another DON’T – Why? http://americansguidetojapan.weebly.com/etiquette-and-taboos.html Also, see “Traveling to Japan” section. What do you think of when you hear the word “Pusher”?