35 Fascinating, Fun, Weird or Unusual Japanese Traditions You Should Know About


 

Japan is a nation with a vibrant and historic culture. This is reflected in its traditions and customs. Everything from the intricate tea ritual to the vibrant festivals are features of these traditions. Some of the most significant Japanese traditions and customs are featured in this post. We will study the origins, current usage, and significance of these traditions among the Japanese people. We’ll also talk about how important traditions and customs are to Japanese culture. Japanese identity is defined by its customs and traditions, which foster a sense of belonging. They also aid in maintaining the rich history and culture of the nation. Enjoy!

1. Hanami – The tradition of viewing flowers

Hanami, the Japanese word for admiring flowers, is a tradition in which people take pleasure in their beauty, especially sakura or cherry blossoms. People frequently bring food, beverages, and friends to hanami celebrations in order to make it a sociable occasion.

It is a centuries-old custom that originated during the Nara era (710-794). It was a preserve of the nobility. Hanami has become one of the most well-liked springtime activities in Japan to date. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Others may want to choose a more quiet location, while some people prefer to visit sizable parks or gardens.

2. Kintsugi – Finding beauty in imperfection

Japanese pottery restoration with gold or silver lacquer is known as kintsugi. Instead of covering up an object’s imperfections, this technique is thought to showcase its beauty. The broken parts must first be cleaned before applying kintsugi to a clay item. They are then joined using a unique lacquer that incorporates gold or silver powder. The gold or silver powder emphasizes the pottery’s flaws, resulting in a lovely and distinctive design. Kintsugi is frequently used as a metaphor for the wabi-sabi school of Japanese thought, which honors the beauty of imperfections.

3. Ikebana – Way of flowers

The Japanese art of flower arranging is known as ikebana. It also goes by the name kad. Despite being an expression of creativity, ikebana is governed by some restrictions. An example is the concept of good and evil fortune in the material choice and arranging form. Ikebana is practiced by numerous schools of thought, each with a distinctive aesthetic. Ikenobo, Sogetsu, and Ohara are some of the most well-known schools. Ikebana is a well-liked activity in Japan. In fact, several ikebana classes are offered all over the country. It is also considered to be a meditation technique.

4. Senninbari the traditional belt

Japanese belt-making custom known as senninbari involves using 1,000 stitches. The belt is typically presented to sportsmen or soldiers as a lucky charm. 100 people sew one stitch each to create the belt. The senninbari is thought to bring protection and luck to the wearer. Since 1,000 is considered a lucky number in Japanese culture, the number of stitches is significant. Even in the present day, senninbari are still produced, and they are frequently presented to athletes or other persons who are going through a difficult time.

5. Omotenashi – The Japanese concept of hospitality

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The Japanese word for hospitality or “the art of hospitality” is omotenashi. It is a nuanced idea that covers a wide range of actions, such as smiling when you welcome someone or giving visitors a tailored tour of your city. The foundation of Omotenashi is the idea of giving visitors a unique experience. Going above and beyond to make your visitors feel welcomed, at ease, and well-cared for. Omotenashi has various facets, but a few of the most crucial ones are;

  • Gentleness
  • Respect
  • Attentiveness

6. Taiko drumming

Taiko drumming is a traditional Japanese drumming style that is frequently employed in rituals and festivals. It is a strong and dynamic musical style that can be both exciting and meditative. Taiko drums are huge, barrel-shaped percussion instruments constructed from leather and wood. They produce a variety of sounds, from deep, echoing booms to piercing, percussive cracks. The drums are played with sticks or bare hands. Japan has a lengthy history of taiko drumming. It is said to have started somewhere in the third century AD. 

7. Sumo – Japanese wrestling

Sumo is a more than 2,000-year-old form of traditional Japanese wrestling. Some of the world’s strongest and most athletic individuals are sumo wrestlers. In sumo, two wrestlers (rikishi) attempt to push one another out of a dohy (circular ring) or into making contact with the ground. Although the games are typically brief, only a few seconds, the sport is undeniably intense. Sumo wrestlers are typically huge and heavy.

8. Kabuki – Inside the Japanese theater

Traditional Japanese theater known as kakuki is renowned for its lavish costumes, makeup, and stylized performance. It is a dramatic and exciting art that is very theatrical and visual. The art form of kabuki was first performed by women in the 17th century. Kakuki frequently draws inspiration from stories, folklore, or historical occurrences. The most recognizable aspect of the art form is kabuki makeup. Intricate masks worn by actors are made to emphasize their facial expressions. 

9. Noh- Japanese drama

Noh is a classic genre of Japanese drama distinguished by its methodical, slow tempo and use of masks. It is a very philosophical and spiritual art form that is frequently seen as a type of meditation. Noh is still performed today, even though it dates back to the fourteenth century. The plays are frequently based on mythological or historical tales from Japan. They frequently include ghosts, spirits, and other paranormal creatures. The players in Noh plays use stylised gestures, facial expressions, and vocal delivery, to convey their feelings. 

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10. Sake – Traditional alcoholic beverage

The traditional Japanese alcoholic drink called sake is created from fermented rice. It tastes pleasant and is a clear, colorless liquid. Sake can be served cold or at room temperature, in addition to being frequently served warm. Sake has been in existence in Japan for more than 2,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages. Rice is fermented with a specific mold called koji to create sake. The rice’s starch is transformed into sugar by the koji, which yeast subsequently ferments into alcohol.

11. Sushi – A traditional Japanese dish 

Sushi is a traditional Japanese cuisine that combines vinegared rice with other ingredients like seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits. The entire world and Asia have adopted this cuisine. Sushi comes in a wide variety of forms, but some of the most popular ones are nigiri, sashimi, maki, and uramaki. Wasabi, pickled ginger, and soy sauce are frequently used in the preparation of sushi. Wasabi, a type of Japanese horseradish, gives the sushi a spicy boost.

12. Tempura – Japanese dish of seafood or vegetables 

A light batter-coated, deep-fried dish called tempura is a specialty of Japan that includes seafood, pork, or vegetables. In Japan, it’s a widely consumed meal that’s frequently offered as an appetizer or snack. The basic batter used to make tempura is a thin mixture of flour, eggs, and water. Fish, meat, or vegetables are then covered in the batter. Following deep-frying, the coated items are cooked to a beautiful brown color. A dipping sauce such as the soy-based tentsuyu is frequently served with tempura.

13. Ramen – Traditional Japanese noodle soup

Japanese ramen is a type of noodle soup. It is prepared with wheat noodles in the Chinese style and served with a broth made of either beef or fish. The ramen frequently has soy sauce or miso flavoring and toppings such as sliced pork, nori, menma, and scallions. You can have ramen for lunch, supper, or even as a snack. It’s a tasty and filling dish. Ramen is a well-liked option for individuals of all ages and is available at restaurants all around the world.

14. Udon – Thick Japanese noodle 

A wheat-based Japanese noodle dish is called udon. Its texture is chewy and thicker than ramen noodles. The soup in which udon is normally served is hot, although it can also be eaten cold. Udon is quite popular in Japan today. It comes in a wide range of variations, but some of the most popular ones are tempura, kake, and soba udon.

15. Wakizashi – A Japanese short sword 

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The wakizashi, or “two swords,” is a small blade that was originally worn with the katana, a larger sword, as a “daish,” or “two swords,” combination. The wakizashi was used for both ceremonial and self-defense purposes. It was commonly worn on the left side of the body. The wakizashi is no longer a weapon of need, but it is nevertheless seen as a significant aspect of Japanese culture. It frequently appears on museum exhibits or is employed in traditional martial arts competitions.

16. Harakiri – Ritual suicide 

Seppuku is another name for harakiri. Samurai in Japan used to commit this kind of ritual suicide. Only specific situations, such as when a samurai had disgraced himself or his family, called for the performance of harakiri. Harakiri, which roughly translates to “cutting the stomach,” is a particularly gruesome and messy practice. Despite being outlawed in Japan in 1873, some people still engage in harakiri today. It is regarded as a means of demonstrating respect for the samurai tradition.

17. Geisha – A traditional Japanese female entertainer 

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Geisha are Japanese female performers who have received training in classical music, dance, and conversation. At eateries, tearooms, and other social occasions, they are frequently engaged to provide entertainment for the patrons. Geisha are sophisticated and extremely adept performers. The various traditional Japanese arts, such as music, dancing, and conversation, are all taught to them. The exquisite cosmetics and hairstyles of geisha are also well known. They frequently sport the traditional Japanese hairdo known as the chignon and apply a white makeup product known as oshiroi to give themselves a pale complexion.

18. Oshiroi – Japanese makeup 

Oshiroi is a type of white cosmetic used in traditional Japanese cosmetics to give the skin a pale appearance. It is often applied with a specific brush and is produced from rice powder, kaolin, and other minerals. Geisha and other traditional Japanese entertainers continue to utilize oshiroi in Japan, where it has been used for generations. Several Japanese ladies also incorporate it into their regular cosmetic routine. Oshiroi is a representation of the elegance and beauty of Japan. The wearer is believed to appear more refined and elegant.

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19. Japanese tattoos 

Irezumi, or Japanese tattoos, have a lengthy and fascinating history. They have served as a sign of prestige, authority, and religious convictions for millennia. Bold lines, vivid colors, and elaborate motifs are the hallmarks of traditional Japanese tattoos. Animals, flowers, and other natural motifs are frequently used in them. Once connected to the criminal underworld, Japanese tattoos have grown in popularity in recent years. People of various ages and backgrounds wear them today.

20. The kimono

Both men and women can wear kimonos, which are traditional Japanese clothing. It is a long, baggy robe, usually made of silk or cotton. Kimonos are frequently embellished with intricate patterns and decorations. Japan has a long tradition of wearing kimonos. They were first worn by the aristocratic class, but throughout the Edo era, they spread more widely. Nowadays, kimonos are still worn, but they are more frequently worn for special events like weddings and festivals. Kimonos come in a wide variety of styles and designs.

21. Bonbori paper lanterns 

During the Obon celebration, bonbori, or paper lanterns, are ignited. The Buddhist holiday known as Obon celebrates the spirits of the departed. To help the dead find their relatives again, bonbori are lit. Usually, bamboo and paper are used to create bonbori. They are frequently embellished with lovely patterns and decorations. There are many different colors of bonbori, but the most popular ones are red, white, and blue. On the first night of Obon, bonbori are lit. They are then extinguished on the last night. Bonbori are often positioned outside of buildings such as houses and offices, as well as in shrines and temples.

22. Anime – Japanese animation

The word “animation” is known as “anime” in Japan. It is a type of animation that is recognized by its vibrant imagery, stylized characters, and frequently fantastical stories. Japanese animators’ experiments with new animation methods led to the development of anime. In 1945, the movie “Momotaro: Holy Sailors,” the first anime, was released. The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of anime in Japan, and since then it has spread around the globe. All genres and age groups can now enjoy anime television shows and movies made in Japan. The most well-known anime shows include “Dragon Ball Z,” “Naruto,” and “One Piece.”

23. Origami – The Japanese art of folding paper

The Japanese art of paper folding is known as origami. It is a technique for turning single pieces of paper into lovely objects. Origami comes in a wide variety of forms, each with its own folding technique. The crane, the lotus flower, and the frog are a few of the most popular origami designs. People of all ages can enjoy the enjoyable and difficult pastime of origami. It can be a creative outlet in addition to being a terrific way to unwind and de-stress.

24. Zen – The art of meditation 

Japan is the home of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition known as Zen. It’s a type of meditation that prioritizes enlightenment. Zen is a form of concentration and awareness. It entails sitting in meditation and paying attention to the present. According to Zen practitioners, this can aid in their quest for enlightenment, or the condition of complete understanding. Although Zen is difficult and complex, it may be a tremendously gratifying practice.

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25. Daruma – Japanese dolls

Japanese dolls known as daruma are said to be lucky charms. To commemorate New Year’s Day, they are frequently presented as gifts. The Indian monk Bodhidharma, who is credited with introducing Zen Buddhism to China, is shown in this artwork. Daruma often have a rotund torso, big eyes, and a long beard and are made of papier-mâché. Although they can also be found in different hues, they are frequently painted red.

26. Matcha – Powdered green tea 

Many Japanese meals and beverages use matcha, a form of powdered green tea, as an ingredient. It is manufactured from finely crushed Camellia sinensis plant leaves. Antioxidant-rich matcha has been linked to numerous health advantages, including:

  • Improved heart health
  • Boosted metabolism
  • Improved cognitive function

27. Manga – Japanese comics 

Japanese people refer to comics as manga. It is a well-liked art form in Japan, and in recent years, it has gained popularity all over the world. Manga are often published as books after being serialized in magazines. They can cover a wide range of subjects, such as science fiction, romance, humor, horror, and action. Manga are distinguished by their vibrant artwork, stylized characters, and catchy stories. Contrary to how Western comics are read, they are normally read from right to left.

28. Shinto – Indigenous Japanese religion 

Japan’s native religion is called Shinto. It is a polytheistic religion with kami worship as its foundation. These are the supposed gods or spirits that reside in all nature. Shinto lacks a founder and holy books. It is a way of life based on the idea that people are entwined with both the kami and nature. Purification rites are a common part of Shinto customs and are meant to rid of impurities in the mind and body.

29. Omikuji – Fortune papers 

In Japan, Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines also sell omikuji, or fortune sheets. They are a method for predicting the future. Usually, omikuji are written on small pieces of paper that have been folded in half. The buyer chooses one at random from a box or vending machine. The forecast is then revealed by opening the fortune paper. The three types of omikuji predictions are good, average, and poor.

30. Senbazuru – 1,000 paper cranes

Origami cranes are folded, then strung together to create senbazuru. Folding 1,000 cranes is said to grant the folder their wish. Folding a senbazuru is a common technique to ask for health or to wish for a loved one’s recovery from an illness. They are also a means of remembering the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Senbazuru folding might be a time-consuming operation, but it is also incredibly rewarding. The end item is an exquisite piece of artwork that is thought to bring luck to the folder.

31. Awa odori – Japanese dance festival

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In Tokushima City, Japan, there is a traditional dance event called Awa Odori. Large-scale dances are performed at the festival by participants of various ages. Awa Odori is a vibrant and energetic celebration that is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Japanese culture. The festival lasts for ten days, from August 12 to August 15. Taiko drums and flutes accompany the dances as they are performed in the streets of Tokushima City. The dancers dress traditionally and frequently sport ornate masks.

32. Tanabata – Japanese star festival 

On July 7th, Japan celebrates Tanabata, a star festival. The celebration is based on the Chinese myth of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two star-crossed lovers. Hikoboshi is the cowherd, and Orihime is the weaving princess. Even though it was unlawful for them to meet, they would slip out to do so every seventh night of the seventh month. They were divided by the Milky Way when their deeds were uncovered. People make wishes and celebrate love during Tanabata. The splendor of the stars can also be appreciated at this time.

33. Setsubun festival 

Japanese people celebrate Setsubun to signal the end of winter and the start of spring. The holiday is observed on February 3. The event is a time to ward off bad omens and usher in good fortune. To frighten demons away on Setsubun, humans toss roasted soybeans. Mame-maki is the name for this. Typically, 108 beans are flung, which is claimed to represent the average person’s worry level.

34. Shichi-Go-San festival 

Japanese children’s growth is honored during the festival of Shichi-Go-San. Three, five, and seven-year-old youngsters can visit temples and shrines on November 15 to offer prayers for their wellbeing. Usually, kids on Shichi-Go-San dress in kimonos or hakama, or other traditional Japanese attire. In addition, their parents give them gifts like candies, new clothes, and toys. Also, it is the perfect opportunity to offer prayers for their continued wellbeing.

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35. Kagami Biraki 

A sake barrel is opened as part of the New Year’s custom known as kagami biraki. The Kagami Biraki represents luck and wealth for the upcoming year. People congregate to open a sake barrel on Kagami Biraki. A respected community member, such as the head of the household or the eldest son, usually performs this task. After that, the sake is poured into cups and distributed among the visitors. People celebrate the New Year at this time and make good luck wishes for the upcoming year.

Japanese traditions and rituals are a fascinating and intricate subject. They offer a fascinating look into Japanese society and there is a ton to learn about them. Some of the most significant Japanese traditions and customs have been covered in this article. We now understand the origins, current usages, and significance of these traditions among the Japanese people. It is a wonderful opportunity to engage with Japanese culture and learn more about it.

 

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