Culture of South and SE Asia SSWG5 The student will describe the interaction of physical and human systems that have shaped contemporary South Asia, Southeastern Asia, and Eastern Asia. d. Describe the various ethnic and religious groups in the region and the affect of geography on their development and their major customs and traditions. g. Describe the Pacific Rim and its cultural, political, and economic significance.

Culture 4 cultures we will examine: 1. China 2. Tibet 3. Japan 4. Philippines

China/Culture Many different cultures due to large population  1.3 billion people Most people are Han Chinese  70% of population Most people speak Mandarin  Many different dialects

China/Foods Rice, noodles, and breads are most eaten Food and cooking changes from region to region  Sichuan food: spicy w/ chilies  North China: roast duck Tea is the most popular drink

3 Religions of China 1. Taoism/Daoism 2. Confucianism 3. Buddhism Taoism/Daoism: Created in China in 500 B.C. Belief—natural order to the universe Goal—live simple life in harmony w/ the flow of nature Dao—means “the way”

3 Religions of China continued Confucianism: Comes from teachings of Confucius Code of ethics Focuses on rules for family, loyalty, duty, & education  Relationships—EX: father/son, husband/wife Has spread to Japan, North & South Korea, & Vietnam

3 Religions of China continued Buddhism: Appeared in northern India around 6 th century B.C. Founder was Siddhartha Gautama also known as Buddha Siddhartha gave up wealth to find true meaning of life & became enlightened Basic ideas of Buddhism:  Give up pain, sorrow, & material things  Reach wisdom, then achieve nirvana Religion found in Tibet

Tibet Located on Plateau of Tibet Became a kingdom in the 600’s with Buddhism as state religion Led by Dali Lamas Dali Lamas: believed to be reincarnation of Buddhist Masters who have chosen to be reborn & teach humanity  Spiritual and political leaders of Tibet

Tibet continued Independent kingdom until 1950  Conquered by China Wants independence Stories of massive killings & torture of Tibetans by Chinese government

Japan/Culture Many parts of Japanese culture started in China  Ex: customs, food, architecture, and religion 99% of population is Japanese  1% is Korean or Chinese Official language -- Japanese Writing uses Chinese characters & Japanese symbols Buddhism & Shintoism are major religions Shintoism: worship of natural spirits and ancestors

Japan/Culture continued Main food is rice  Eaten most meals Fish are a major source of protein  Sushi and Sashimi are popular  Sashimi: thin slices of raw fish

Japan/Culture continued Strong family ties Great respect for elders Kimono: traditional dress  Worn on special occasions Kabuki: Japanese theater  Uses colorful costumes and makeup

Japan/Education Excellent education system Minimum of 9 years of public school  Kindergarten can be 1-3 years Must learn Japanese, math, science, and English Elementary and middle school are free  Must pay for Kindergarten and High School

Philippines Island in SE Asia People called Filipinos  90% of the people are Malaysian ethnicity Culture based on traditional, U.S. and Spanish traditions

Philippines continued Official religion is Roman Catholic 2 official languages: 1. English 2. Tagalog Most food are built around boiled and steamed rice Balut: boiled duck still in the egg Jeepney: U.S. army jeeps converted into giant taxis