Interested In Japanese Culture? 5 Things You Never Knew

Posted by: KHTS Articles in News Articles June 19, 2020 - 9:29 am 0 1,104 Views

Japanese are well known for their seasoned skills in various sectors. They are also famous for their healthy cultural norms, which make them unique beings in the world. However, there are many mystifying facts that many people do not know about them. These cultural practices revolve around the way of living, worshiping, eating, and much more. Here are the top five interesting facts which we thought you should know about Japanese culture.

1. Most Japanese are Buddhists and Shinto

According to statistics, 80% of Japan’s people are active participators of the Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies. The ceremonies are open to everyone, including those who do not have specified religious groups, due to many Buddhists and Shinto followers. There are many shrines and temples, almost in every corner of the country. Surprisingly, some shrines are located along the small road lanes, trees, and other strange areas. Just like the other religion’s places, the shrines are holy areas, and the believers meet there regularly to worship the gods. The Christians are very few in the country, as they only add up to 2% of the total population.

2. Throwing stars are common in japan

Throwing stars are part are martial arts. They are common in Japan and western china, although they originated in Japan. The Japanese use these stars to defend themselves in times of war. When you are in danger, the face and the chest are the most vulnerable parts. As mentioned in this guide https://www.tbotech.com/mini-throwing-stars.htm, Japan natives attach these stars on their weapons to protect the sensitive parts while still aiming their arrows. Due to their effectiveness, the throwing stars are quite common, and at least every homestead has a pair or two. There are many types of stars, and the vast array gives them a wide choice of options to choose from. So, if you intend to visit Japan, you will probably learn more about the stars.

3. Japanese enjoy communal baths

If you are from the European nations or any other part of the world, then the chances are that you are not used to public baths. The Japanese culture is quite different, as it allows people to bathe naked in public. According to them, the naked baths help the people to relax, to freshen better, and to observe their culture. When you need to shower, you can either use the hot springs baths known as the opsens, or use the public baths. Some bathes are separated based on gender, while others are all public. In line with the culture, you may cover yourself with a clean towel, but the cloth should never catch any water while bathing. It only makes sense to remove all the towels and clothing and join the communal bathtubs or showers. However, be warned that you may be allowed to enter the bathing centers with some tattoos. You may also not need to carry soap, as the baths are well equipped with the bathing essentials.

4. Bowing is important

Bowing, also known as ojigi, is a universal and mandatory gesture in Japan. It is the act lowering your head or the upper part of your body to show appreciation, gratitude, respect, or even apology. Unlike in most European countries, the Japanese can bow up to ten times a day, on different occasions. From the everyday greetings to work to funerals, bowing shows that you adore the Japanese culture and, most importantly, that you are a respectable person. You can bend when standing, but mainly if you have some health issues. Failure to bow shows that you are a disrespectful person, and you may find yourself in serious legal problems in the nation. There are many types of bows, and you can research to familiarize yourself with them before you get there.

5. Chopsticks are common, and they have a different meaning

People in Japan have been using the chopstick since 1200 BC. Initially, the sticks were made of bronze, and people mostly used them to cook and stir food in the boiling pots. Since then, the chopsticks have been essential tools for both cooking and eating. However, unlike in many countries, the chopsticks in Japan have many meanings. For instance, there is a unique way you can use the sticks in funerals, and not on any other occasion. Learn different styles before you visit the country.

Japan is one of the fascinating nations in the world. It is beautiful and boasts of incredible features that make it a leading nation in every sector. If you would like to go to the country as a tourist or for any other purpose, learn more about the culture so that you can have an enjoyable moment when you get there.