1. Japanese Culture

2. 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

4. Opening Ceremony: Each rikishi wears a very expensive silk apron provided to him by a fan.

5. 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.

8. 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

10. 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

14. Code of the Samurai A.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)

15. Ikebana- The Art of Flower Arranging Started by a Buddhist monk in the early 15 th 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

17. 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

18. 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

21. 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