Hallmarks of the Japanese Culture
By Srimal Fernando
The Japanese call their country Nippon, which means “origin of the sun.” The country has become synonymous with success, growth and adventure. As Japan has surged to the scene as a world leader, the country has received a great deal of attention. Japan, the most technologically advanced society in the world is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the North Pacific ocean off the coast of the Asian continent. The long slender shape of this country dotted with 6825 islands gives it a unique and extensive coastline. The four largest islands from north to south are Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. The country is also modern in every sense of the word, from its super-efficient Shinkansen bullet trains, cloud-tickling skyscrapers, world-class hotels with unparalleled service and astonishing scenery.
The Japanese culture is as vibrant and versatile as its landscape and natural beauty. The culture of the country boasts a rich history dating back to more than two thousand years. The country has tended to preserve its traditional music, theater and dance separately from new developments offering visitors the opportunity to experience an ancient form much as they were hundreds of years ago. Japanese art possesses several distinctive characteristics that give it, its own unique style. There are grottos, temples and pagodas that are still there and are for the young generation to see and understand their roots and origin. There are more than 200,000 religious organizations in Japan; the majority of them are either Shinto or Buddhist in origin. Japanese are a friendly and hospitable people. Greetings are an important part of social and business interaction .The country is essentially a land of songs, music and dances. Harmony of music and dance around the country are also a means by which the Japanese audiences and communities can find fulfillment in harmonious interaction.
The dance types in Japan comprises of traditional and contemporary forms. Many of these dances involve rhythmic stomping of the feet and the lifting of both arms into the air as a beckoning gesture. Dance of Japan is equally interesting since there are two types of dances. These dances are for the court and for the common people to enjoy and participate. Handed down from generation to generation, the dancers use various props such as colorful umbrellas and fans to make the dance more attractive.
http://print.dailymirror.lk/life/132-life/29068.htmlPart 2
By Srimal Fernando
In Japanese language Odori means revolving and Mai means jumping, they are the two main types of traditional dances in the country. Odori dance is characterized by more earthy, extroverted movements to Mai, which has distinguished by restrained ceremonial movements. The two main Odari dances that are performed in the country are the Sparrow dance known as Suzume Odori and Bon Odori. Bon Odori dance is widely performed during the Bon festival in mid august. The oldest known dance in Japan is the kagura, a ritualistic dance that has its origins in shamanist trance dances and is still performed by young girls in Shinto shrines in the country. A collection of genuine handmade Japanese flutes are used in the ritual and festivals of the Iwami Kagura dance.In Japan there are several other types of traditional dances. The most popular traditional dance is the Lion dance. Among the other popular dances furya dance is associated with driving off of evil spirits. Sakura or “cherry blossom” dance is performed by women during spring season. A New Year’s celebratory dance known as the Iyomanzai and Ayakomai are dances performed as thanks giving to gods. In recent years western dances are getting quickly absorbed in to the Japanese society. The country has more ballroom dancers than any other country in the world. Despite the popularity of ballroom dancing, Break and Hip Hop dances are also extremely popular among the young.
Traditions and culture differ from one country to another, so is the music. Japanese traditional music is popular not only in Japan but also in the West.The music in the country has followed an evolving trend. Be it classical or a western fusion music Japan is the perfect place that has it all. Traditional music is a part and parcel of any culture. In recent years, many pieces of the traditional music compositions were showcased throughout the world. Classical western music has become a fundamental part of the country’s musical education. Jazz, rock, heavy metal, folk, new music, pop, synthesized music, instrumental music and Japanese folk songs are enjoyed by Japanese youth. Symphony orchestras are played in most of the major cities and during international tours. The country is known for being a successful area for metal bands touring around the world. Gagaku is a type of classical music that has been performed at the Imperial court for several centuries. Work songs known as min you, Shintoist music known as sato kagura and children’s songs like warabe uta are the three main types of Japanese folk songs. There is another form of traditional music accompanying stories. A musical instrument known as Biwa, a short-necked lute is played by a group of itinerant performers. A large drum called kumi-daiko is played in Taiko music sessions.
Japan has a number of theatres, music venues, art galleries, and a range of other places where the arts can be appreciated. The Japanese are largely an agricultural society having four distinct seasons with a moderate rainfall .The country had developed the art of entertainment to suit these seasons. The Japan literally known as the “Land of the rising Sun” is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and entertainment. Today the Japanese are trying to integrate economic success with “humanistic” and more “spiritually” oriented life-styles. If one is to understand and experience the surprises of cultures of the world, Japan surely is a place not to be missed.
Source : http://print.dailymirror.lk/life/132-life/29680-hallmarks-of-japanese-culture-.html
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