Why is Japan and Japanese Culture So Popular Today?
From beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites detailing the pristine architectural history of the past to a fusion of traditional culture mixed with pop culture’s modernity – Japan has massive appeal around the world.
Through Japanese films and television shows, Netflix documentary series, enjoying traditional foods, and studying the country’s history, we can glean social customs, centuries-old traditions, and folklore often hidden by the mass appeal of anime, manga, and video games.
Discussing Japanese Culture
The Importance of Chopsticks
If you’ve had any interest in Japanese culture via exported anime Americanized into your favorite childhood memories or by other means, you’ve probably heard the phrase ‘Gaijin Smash’ in some context. So, for reference, let’s talk about this phenomenon.
Keep readingUnderstanding Japanese Paying Etiquette
During my time working at a Japanese Cultural Center, I frequented any and all Japanese grocers nearby. It was the “Japanese” part of town and fresh, authentic places were readily available.
Keep readingWhen Will Japan Be Open For Travel?
With increasingly brutal restrictions on foreign expats living in Japan now lifted, just how long will an entry ban last on those wishing to visit Japan for tourism?
Keep readingBrooklyn’s Own Cherry Blossom Festival – Sakura Matsuri 2018
This past weekend I attended Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s annual Sakura Matsuri festival in celebration of Japanese culture. It was held throughout the entire garden with events spaced out and designated to certain subset areas. Although it was foggy with moisture clinging heavily to the atmosphere, as the day progressed the sun came out and blessed…
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