In many Western societies, silence is often experienced as an uncomfortable situation to avoid. It is associated with boredom, a blockage, or even a form of rejection. But in Japan, silence occupies a central place in culture, both in social interactions and in spiritual practices. It is far from being devoid of meaning: it carries nuances, emotions, and respect. Understanding the role of silence in Japanese communication is to open a door to an art of living based on listening, restraint, and harmony. Silence as an expression of respect and politeness Even before delving into the subtleties of Japanese non-verbal language, it is essential to understand that silence is deeply linked to the notion of respect. It is often intentional,...
Japan often evokes images of breathtaking festivals, with illuminated floats and a jubilant crowd. However, behind the most well-known events like Kyoto's Gion Matsuri or Aomori's Nebuta Matsuri, there exists a multitude of lesser-known regional festivals deeply rooted in local traditions. These celebrations, sometimes millennia old, were born from an intimate connection between communities and their environment, their faith, and their ancestors. Unfortunately, many of these matsuri are today threatened with disappearance, victims of demographic aging, rural exodus, and changing lifestyles. In this article, we offer a dive into the world of forgotten Japanese festivals, in order to better understand their role, the reasons for their gradual fading, and the efforts made to preserve them. Ancient festivals fallen into oblivion...
The Japanese sword, or katana, is much more than a weapon: it is a cultural symbol, a sacred object, and a martial discipline imbued with spirituality. Inherited from the samurai, the sword schools (called ryū) today perpetuate millennia-old techniques in respect of traditions. While many believe these arts have disappeared with the era of warriors, several of these schools are still active, sometimes even for several centuries. Let's dive into the fascinating world of kenjutsu and iaidō, to discover which schools have survived, how they operate, and why they continue to captivate in the 21st century. The origins of sword schools Before exploring current schools, it is important to understand how these traditions have been structured over the centuries. What...
When one travels to Japan or observes typical Japanese interiors in films or series, one detail immediately stands out: the small size of the housing. Tiny rooms, compact kitchens, multifunctional bathrooms… This phenomenon, far from being anecdotal, results from a complex set of historical, economic, cultural, and societal factors. In this article, we will explore in depth the reasons behind this architectural specificity, as well as how the Japanese have managed to integrate it harmoniously into their daily lives. The historical and geographical origins Before understanding the current architectural choices, it is essential to trace back to the historical and geographical roots that have shaped the size of homes in Japan. Accelerated urbanization after the war After World War II,...
Japan is one of the countries where people live the longest, with an average life expectancy exceeding 84 years. This impressive figure is observed in both women and men, and certain regions like Okinawa are particularly famous for their exceptional concentration of centenarians. However, this longevity is not the result of chance or solely genetics: it results from a coherent set of lifestyle choices, cultural habits, and a social environment conducive to balance and serenity. Let’s discover together the many pillars that contribute to this fascinating phenomenon. A healthy and balanced diet Among the most studied elements of the Japanese lifestyle, diet occupies a central place. The traditional Japanese diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world. Modest...
