# data[].attributes.body
I used this page of manga panels I printed out as my reference for my mono print, I used a pencil to go over the outlines of the manga panels.

# data[].attributes.body
process image of files ready for laser cut

# data[].attributes.body
I like the different shapes together, square, circle and rectangle. I had some technical support to help make little wooden stands.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Laser cut wooden panels made using my designs 

# data[].attributes.body
Exciting seeing drawings converted to files ready for the laser cut process.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive rolled out doughy clay and I lightly pressed down different shape cutters onto the doughy clay, next I used latex paint to paint the doughy clay by adding layers of latex paint and drying off each layer I've added using a hair dryer finally once I've dried off the last layer I peeled it off.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive used a set of origami instructions ive previously printed out to make this swan origami.

# data[].attributes.body
I did a continuous line of a geisha girl in a black pen.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive drawn the same character that i was drawing from the other experiment that i did, but in this experiment i used pastels and it didn't go well because it was difficult to find the right drawing materials to outline the character so the pastels doesn't go over the outline.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive drawn the character in pencil then outlined it in fine liner, next i used watercolored pencils to colour the character, I used the original colour yellow for his costume and I used orange for the poker dots, i made the experiment to be inspired by Yayoi kusama.

# data[].attributes.body
mood board inspired by Japanese manga

# data[].attributes.body
planning sheet

# data[].attributes.body
Ive drawn a Japanese art form called kintsugi using thin piece of charcoal.

# data[].attributes.body
I drew the matcha tea in HB pencil and I coloured the matcha tea using the watercolours. I used different shades of green for the tea, I used grey to shade the mug and used white for the highlights.

# data[].attributes.headline
Idea for making pin badges using the laser cutter, creating an anima design. 

# data[].attributes.subject
Idea for making pin badges using the laser cutter, creating an anima design. 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Wooden badges on the theme of Animals engraved and cut using a laser cutting printer.
Our badges are available in birch plywood, poplar and okoumé or solid beech wood. Two types of fastening are proposed, a pin's needle attachment and a fine textile magnet.

Do not hesitate to contact us for any questions or customization requests. For example, we can engrave an inscription on the back or add a detail to make your badge unique.

wood
Birch plywood (picture 3)
The badges are engraved in 2.5 mm thick birch wood.

Poplar plywood (picture 3)
The badges are engraved in 3 mm thick poplar plywood.

Okoumé plywood (images 1 and 3)
The badges are engraved in okoumé plywood with a thickness of 3 mm.

Beechwood (picture 3)
The badges are engraved in solid beech wood 2.5 to 3 mm thick.
Solid wood offers better strength and allows for more precise and deeper engraving (double-pass engraving).

SIZE
Max height: 45 mm
Max width: 50 mm
Diameter: 33 mm

FIXATION
Pin's Fixation (picture 4)
Finish available: Gold, chrome or copper
Diameter: 10 mm - Height of needle: 10 mm
The fastener is glued using hot glue.

* Magnetic fastening for fine textile, t-shirt, shirt.
Diameter: 17 mm
Thickness: 5 mm

The badges are attached to a kraft cardboard card.

EXPEDITION
The shipment is done in 1 to 3 working days in bubble wraps.

Delivery France*
* Standard = Green letter (3 to 10 days)
* Letter followed (delay 3 to 8 days)
Colissimo (1 to 2 days)
Colissimo R1 (1 to 2 days)
* Important: We recommend shipments by Colissimo and Colissimo R1 because they allow to obtain a fixed compensation in case of damage, delay or loss of the package (6 € for the standard Colissimo and up to 50 € for the R1).
We will decline all responsibility in the event of loss or delay with standard postage in green letter.

World Delivery
Standard - Priority Letter
Priority letter with follow-up (4 to 10 days)
Colissimo (3 to 8 days)

* Find our work and all our news on Instragram and Facebook @RonWoodiy

Learn more about this item

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Wooden Badge Theme Animals / Pin's Animals / Cat Fox | Etsy UK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Wooden badges on the theme of Animals engraved and cut using a laser cutting printer. Our badges are available in birch plywood, poplar and okoumé or solid beech wood. Two types of fastening are proposed, a pins needle attachment and a fine textile magnet.

# data[].attributes.body
I drew this pencil gradient so I can see which pencil I should use for the tone of the sushi.

# data[].attributes.body
I used a HB pencil to draw the outline of the sushi, then I used B,HB and 2B for the shading.

# data[].attributes.body
Pocky sticks are a Japanese snack, I rarely snack on but I absolutely love them especially the Oreo flavoured ones, I love them because not only that they are Oreo flavoured but they just taste amazing.

# data[].attributes.body
Rashanai you have researched a range of traditional Japanese rituals, celebrations and practices. You need to include your own opinions about the artists work you have selected and about Japanese culture. What ideas can you develop from your research? You have a wealth of possibilities within this research. Highlight particular themes, consider how you could stylistically represent these practically.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive got this little Levi stand from a lucky bag I bought from a anime cafe from afflecks palace in town, I love it because Levi is one of my second favourite characters from my favourite anime Attack on Titan.

# data[].attributes.body
I was given this amazing miku blanket for my 19th birthday, and I absolutely love it because its cozy and snuggly.

# data[].attributes.body
I was gifted this cute my neighbour totoro tote bag, I use the tote bag sometimes but I still love, I love this tote bag because its cute and I really love my neighbour totoro.

# data[].attributes.body
I was gifted these superdry slippers for Christmas, and I love them because I don't have to walk on the cold floors in my house.

# data[].attributes.body
I was gifted this awesome final fantasy pillow, I've never played final fantasy but I still love this pillow, I love this pillow because its just amazing and comfy for my head.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive won this amazing adorable miku plushy from the anime cafe at afflecks palace in town, and I really love it because I cuddle it when am upset.

# data[].attributes.body
Ive bought this amazing Nico robin figure for Christmas from the anime cafe, I don't watch one piece but I love the figure because Nico robin looks cool.

# data[].attributes.body
I bought this miku badge for Christmas from afflecks palace and I love it because its cute and I just love miku.

# data[].attributes.body
I was gifted this awesome Tokyo ghoul manga for Christmas, i've got more at home but I want to show one of my favourite volumes which is this, this is one of my favourite volumes because the manga just gets to the point of the story half way through and its just awsome.

# data[].attributes.body
I was gifted these amazing sounding Sony headphones for my 19th birthday, I love these because the sound quality is amazing.

# data[].attributes.headline
Find an image for your title page. Use the paper version of your plan to make notes. this will help you to build your proposal 

# data[].attributes.subject
Find an image for your title page. Use the paper version of your plan to make notes. this will help you to build your proposal 

# data[].attributes.body
Am going to print all the pictures that am going to draw from for my experiments
Pencil-sushi
Charcoal- geisha girls and bonsai(practice drawing the pictures first then do the real pieces)
Pastel- 2 pieces on anime characters (saitama from one punch man and mob from mob psycho 100)
Watercolours-matcha tea, origami and cherry blossoms
Mixed media- kintsugi
Mood board- Japanese images

# data[].attributes.body
My idea for home is bringing Japanese culture to my house, I love Japan and its culture, that's why I decided to do Japan as my idea for home for my FMP.

# data[].attributes.body
I took a photo of one of these Japanese inspired artwork from the art gallery.

# data[].attributes.body
Traditional Japanese garden is considered one of the most important elements of Japanese art. Each type of traditional Japanese gardens has there own style of beauty.

In Japan, visiting a traditional garden is a must do activity along with exploring beautiful landscape, castles, museums, temples and shrines. There is a list of historic Japanese gardens can be found across the country, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo.

Kyoto is known for its historic temples and shrines that are mostly decorated with beautiful gardens. The landscapes of these gardens change frequently as the four seasons of Japan pass them by throughout a year.

# data[].attributes.body
I took a photo of the cherry blossom in my area of where I live.

# data[].attributes.body
Awa Odori (Mid-August, Tokushima)

The largest traditional dance festival in Japan, Awa Odori takes place in Tokushima City in the secluded prefecture of Tokushima on Shikoku Island. Occurring for several days during mid-August, the Awa Odori boasts over 400 years of profound history and is counted amongst Japan’s Three Great Bon Odori festivals, which are all large-scale traditional dances occurring during the summertime holiday of Obon.

Awa Odori features groups of choreographed dancers known as “ren.” There are lots of different ren of varying sizes, including amatuer ren made up of locals, highly trained professional ren, and ren of schoolchildren or employees from a company. Each ren is divided between the men’s dance and the women’s dance, with the men donning a traditional garment known as a “happi” and socks while women wear a yukata and traditional “amigasa” straw hat with “geta” wooden clogs. The men’s dance is intense and dynamic while the women’s is refined and elegant. Awa Odori is also noted for its distinctive duple time music, which is produced by a band called a “narimono” with a number of instruments including bells, flutes, shamisen, and taiko drums.

Sendai Tanabata Matsuri (August 6-8, Sendai)

Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, is an important Japan-wide seasonal celebration taking place on July 7 and lasting until mid-August (depending on the area and region). During this time, people will write their wishes on strips of rectangular “tanzaku” paper and hang it on the leaves of bamboo while praying to the stars. Streets, shopping arcades, homes, and stores will display decorations of colourful streamers and bamboo leaves, weaving together an energetic, enchanting atmosphere. The festival was originally based on the Chinese Qixi Festival and celebrates the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, star-crossed lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair who are separated by the Milky Way. Once a year, during the seventh day of the seventh lunar month according to the lunisolar calendar, they are allowed to meet, marking the beginning of Tanabata. During this time, the light shining from Vega and Altair is said to be at its brightest, leading to the belief that the two deities were finally together.

The Sendai Tanabata Matsuri was originally promoted by Sendai’s legendary samurai founder Date Masamune and continues today as one of Japan’s most flamboyant celebrations. During this time, the entirety of Sendai and surroundings become engulfed in a tapestry of dazzling handmade Tanabata decorations, including bamboo, origami, tanzaku paper, drawstring bags, and streamers. Many are made to be huge and extravagant, with the thick meter-long streamers hung on huge sticks of bamboo being the most eye-catching.

Aomori Nebuta Matsuri (Early August, Aomori)

One of northern Tohoku's stand-out events, the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri is centered around huge, dramatic “nebuta” paper lantern floats designed in the shapes of deities, mythical creatures, kabuki actors, and more. The Nebuta Matsuri is celebrated simultaneously in almost every region of Aomori Prefecture during early August, with popular places to witness it being Aomori City, Hirosaki, and Goshogawara. Surrounding the floats are “haneto” dancers, who perform an energetic routine timed to a musical accompaniment while dressed flamboyantly.

Beginning as a ritual to send off the spirits of the dead, the origins of this custom can be traced back as far as the Tanabata/Obon festivals of the Nara Period (710-794). While most of these festivals see small lanterns gently gliding down rivers, those in Aomori have evolved into massive sculpture-like nebuta lanterns reaching up to 5 meters tall and 9 meters wide. With over two million people mobilized for the event, it remains one of Japan’s largest celebrations and a part of Tohoku’s Three Great Festivals.

Sapporo Snow Festival (Late January/Early February, Sapporo)

Aiming to make the bitter cold of Hokkaido's mid-winter bright and fun, the Sapporo Snow Festival features hundreds of massive and extraordinarily detailed ice and snow sculptures adorning the city of Sapporo. The festival’s main location is the central Odori Park, while the nearby neighbourhood of Susukino and the Tsu Dome in Higashi Ward also showcase a delightful range worth checking out.

Compared with many of the other festivals on this list, the Sapporo Snow Festival has a relatively short and humble history. It was kicked off by a group of local high schoolers who started building sculptures out of snow plowed and discarded in Odori Park. Each year, more professional and passionate sculptors would come to try and outdo each other, making the event rapidly grow in scale. Now attracting over 2.5 million visitors from Japan and abroad, the ice and snow sculptures lining the frozen streets grow more ambitious and breath taking every year. The festival is also enhanced by stunning illuminations, projection mapping, ice skating, food stalls, snow slides, and more, providing entertainment well worth braving the cold for!

Hakata Dontaku Matsuri (May 3-4, Fukuoka)

One of the most popular Golden Week (holiday period in late April/early May) festivals in Japan, the Hakata Dontaku Matsuri is held annually on May 3-4 in the city of Fukuoka in Kyushu. During the festival, the streets are taken over by beautifully costumed dancers, many bearing the festival’s iconic wooden "shamoji” spoon, alongside gorgeously decorated “hana jidosha” floats.

The word “dontaku” is said to have originated from the Dutch word “zondag,” meaning “Sunday” or “holiday.” The word came into use in Japan during the Meiji Period (1868-1912) to denote the 1st and 6th of each month, which were considered official holidays between 1868 and 1876. The Hakata Dontaku Matsuri itself can be traced back to 1179 as a “Matsubayashi” festival to celebrate the Lunar New Year. While it was briefly banned by the government in 1872, it was kickstarted again in 1879 on a new date under the fresh name of Dontaku. After the war, it assumed its current form in 1962, with a series of processions and dances by locals of both young and old men and women occurring over two days. Nowadays, there are roughly 650 Dontaku groups of over 30,000 performers cheered on by up to 2 million spectators!

Nagasaki Lantern Festival (Late January/Early February, Nagasaki)

Beginning as a humble Chinese New Year celebration, the Nagasaki Lantern Festival is now a dreamlike display of over 15,000 lanterns transforming the city into a tapestry of fiery reds and vivid yellows. Occurring during the Lunar New Year, the festival attracts over 1 million visitors to Nagasaki City’s Chinatown and nearby locations to witness the lanterns alongside fireworks, traditional dances, theatre performances, and more.

The festival was originally started by Chinese residents living in the Nagasaki Chinatown celebrating the Chinese New Year. After impressing the other citizens of Nagasaki, the festival was ramped up and redesigned in 1994 to include all residents, quickly becoming one of Kyushu’s most prominent winter icons. The festival runs for around two weeks during an ever-changing period around late January and early February. There are 7 main areas decorated with lanterns, including the Nagasaki Chinatown, Central Park, the Chinese district of Tojinyashiki, Kofukuji Temple, and more.

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (Mid-September, Kishiwada)

Held in Kishiwada City, Osaka, during mid-September, the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri is known for its show of extremely large and heavy “danjiri” wooden floats pulled along at breakneck speeds. Considered one of the most thrilling traditional festivals in Japan, over 400,000 spectators gather to watch this nail-biting display of raw energy and excitement.

With up to 10 different varieties unique to certain areas, danjiri floats have hundreds of years of history and are at the heart of Kansai culture. Each danjiri hosts a group of musicians alongside a collection of locals and one individual chosen to stand atop to shift their weight and help it around corners. While there are several festivals featuring danjiri, Kishiwada is by far the most famous. The danjiri here weigh about 4 tons and are generally made from the wood of the Japanese “keyaki” tree and adorned with intricate carvings by the town’s most skilled carpenters. To help move it along, a team of up to 200 pull ropes from the front while pushing the wheels from behind with a stick, carefully matching their power and showing off their strength and dexterity.

Tenjin Matsuri (Late June - July 25, Osaka)

Ranked as one of Japan’s top three festivals, the Tenjin Festival in Osaka is celebrated for its dual land and river processions topped off by a breath taking fireworks display. While events last for an entire month, the main spectacle takes place on July 24-25 with over 1 million people flocking to take part.

Boasting more than 1,000 years of history, Tenjin Matsuri festivals are actually held around the 25th each month at Tenmangu Shrines Japan-wide to honor the deity of scholarship Sugawara Michizane. Within this tradition, the annual summertime Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka is the most famous, with the climax of over 5,000 fireworks and convoy of approximately 100 boats, many bearing bonfires, transforming Osaka into another world.

Gion Matsuri (July, Kyoto)

Held by Yasaka Shrine, which sits between Kyoto’s historical Gion and Higashiyama districts, the Gion Matsuri is another of Japan’s most famous matsuri festivals. Its history dates all the way back to 869 with the Emperor declaring a festival be held to appease the gods and curb plague. It has been held continuously since 970.

The Gion Matsuri is most famous for the spectacular procession of floats on the 17th and 24th of July along with the smaller “yoiyama” festivals the preceding nights. During the yoiyama, the giant “yama” and “hoko” floats used for the main processions are displayed outdoors with their lanterns lit accompanied by Gion-bayashi traditional music.

The festival is also a time for locals and visitors to don their best kimono and show it off throughout the town. Surrounded by the ancient, retro streets of Kyoto’s geisha district, the jovial yet deeply spiritual atmosphere offers an intimate encounter with the soul of Japanese culture. Being one of Japan’s cultural heartlands, Kyoto is also host to a number of matsuri festivals throughout the year, including the iconic burning kanji characters of the Gozan no Okuribi festival.

Kanda Matsuri (May, Tokyo)

Kanda Matsuri is one of Tokyo's biggest Shinto festivals. Beginning during the Edo period, it is held by Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo’s Chiyoda City and spreads out across neighbourhood's like Kanda, Nihonbashi, Akihabara, and Marunouchi. During this time, over 200 mikoshi accompanied by roughly a thousand participants and thousands of spectators dominate the streets. The full “honmatsuri” version takes place on odd-numbered years, while a simplified version is held on even. Complemented by events throughout the week, the main attractions usually occur over the weekend closest to May 15, with day-long processions on Saturday and parades of mikoshi on Sunday.

The origins of the festival are murky, with some form of it believed to exist during the original construction of Kanda Myojin Shrine in 730. However, its modern iteration truly kicked off when Tokugawa Ieyasu visited Kanda Myojin Shrine to pray for his victory in the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. He decisively won, leading to the start of the Tokugawa shogunate. Coincidentally, the day Tokugawa officially unified the whole of Japan was also the shrine’s festival day, naturally leading Tokugawa to believe the shrine held immense power. He allowed its mikoshi to enter the Edo Castle grounds while it became officially recognized and protected by the shogunate.

# data[].attributes.body
There are some truly amazing Japanese hobbies that everyone should try. Most of the hobbies on our list are centuries old and have been making people’s lives better in a multitude of ways. Explore Japanese hobbies that will make you move, help you relax and recharge, or fill your stomach with delicious treats.

Kendo - Japanese martial arts

Kendo is one of the most popular Japanese hobbies in modern times. There are over one and a half million active kendo players in Japan. It is a descendant of swordsmanship, but a much less violent version of course. If you enjoy learning about martial arts and would love to advance physically and mentally, Kendo is a great activity for you.

Opponents face each other in protective equipment and have to hit the counterpart with an accurate and clear strike. The shinai, a bamboo sword is a beautiful piece. For those who want to learn discipline, Kendo is definitely a good fit. Mastering the arts could take years, so you are in for a magnificent journey.

Kintsugi - Japanese art form

Kintsugi will not only be the most beautiful but also one of the most useful hobbies you’ll ever pick up that’s also good for your mental health. We love Kintsugi because it teaches about values people really need in this century. Kintsugi is one of the most mental-health-friendly hobbies that will help you deal with stress, help you put negative things into a new and positive perspective as well as embrace and appreciate imperfections.

How many times have you thrown away items because they were slightly damaged? Today’s society is so used to just buying new instead of fixing what’s broken. Kintsugi teaches a valuable lesson to everyone; broken pieces can be placed back together and the result might even be more beautiful than it originally was.

Furoshiki - Traditional Japanese hobbies

Dating back to the eighth century, Furoshiki has a long and beautiful history. Many think Furoshiki is simply gift wrapping, but actually, it is much more than that. Naturally, if you want to surprise someone, a tastefully wrapped gift definitely goes a long way. However, the colourful clothes are suitable for everyday transportation and packaging as well.

Depending on the size, you can wrap nearly anything you would want to take with you. For example, preparing a nice picnic couldn’t be easier than with Furoshiki cloths. Mastering the art is not too difficult, but certainly very useful. If you enjoy painting and creating new patterns, you can start making your own Furoshiki cloth.

Bonsai

The Japanese dwarf trees are probably among the most well-known traditional Japanese hobbies you can think of. In most countries, it is considered to be a lavish hobby that will impress everyone. Beyond that everyone loves the appearance of the tiny trees that look just like the giants on paintings. No matter how you decorate at home or in your office, a Bonsai tree will definitely be a good fit.

It isn’t just how great they look, it takes time, patience, and attention to keep those beauties in good shape. You can order a Bonsai tree today and begin your journey with these remarkable plants. They will definitely thank your hard work. Get started with the art of Bonsai at home you just need a Bonsai tree starter kit, a live bonsai tree or you can use Bonsai tree seeds and start growing your very own Bonsai.

Learn the Japanese language

Learning a new language is always a superb hobby. By doing so you are doing yourself a huge favour. We aren’t just talking about exploring a new culture, but it also keeps your brain fit. Studies show that learning a language is among the best exercises one can do to improve memory and overall improve neuroplasticity.

You are going to find it on every list of how to improve your neuroplasticity. Furthermore, Japanese is an incredibly beautiful and complex language, therefore if you enjoy the challenge, you are in for a fantastic treat. Japanese culture is very popular around the world, so it is definitely a good conversation starter. Also, in case you are planning to visit Japan, locals are going to adore you if you can engage in a conversation in Japanese.

Learn anime drawing

In case you are a huge fan of anime and Japanese culture, you are going to love drawing anime. If you are looking for the most common Japanese hobbies, anime is definitely on top. Even if you are not an anime enthusiast, you are still very likely to enjoy drawing cute, fun, or dark anime characters. Drawing is another great exercise that can help your brain remain young.

Learn to play shogi

Shogi is definitely among the most popular Japanese hobbies and if you like chess, you are going to love this abstract board game too. It has been around since the 15th century and it is just as exciting as fun. Especially if you find a worthy opponent. There is a good chance that walking around in parks you are going to find locals playing and always looking for new challenges. You are definitely going to make friends quickly with your Shogi knowledge in Japan.

In addition to all the social and mental benefits, Shogi boards are also beautiful. We are sure you are going to want one at home on display at all times.

Learn the art of matcha making

When in Japan, you ought to try matcha tea and if you have the chance also visit a tea ceremony. Nothing is more soothing and captivating than making matcha. If you have trouble with relaxing, concentrating, and generally switching off, this is your new go-to activity.

You don’t have to love tea, enough if someone else in the family does. This beautiful ritual is one of the most beautiful traditional hobbies in Japan and one that replenishes the soul as well as your body. Just think of it as an active meditation while also making delicious matcha tea.

Tsumami Kanzashi

What is Tsumami Kanzashi? If you have seen intricate artworks or traditional Japanese celebrations, you have definitely seen them. Kanzashi collectively refers to traditional Japanese hair ornaments and Tsumami Kanzashi are flower ornaments. These lovely accessories play an important part at special events, such as weddings. Geisha and even sumo wrestlers wear a form of these beauties.

Its traditions go back as far as about ten thousand years at some point in history they were even used as deadly weapons. While creating it is not an easy task, but certainly is a great hobby. Making your own, personalized Tsunami Kanzashi is a truly amazing experience.

Mizuhiki

Japanese arts and crafts lovers are going to be delighted as there is another unique way to create while relaxing. Mizuhiki is a quite interesting form of art that surely is going to blow your mind. Mastering Mizuhiki is not an easy task, but the reward is guaranteed.

Mizuhiki is in fact a rice cord you have to make yourself and then paint to your desired colours. Once the cord is done, you can start creating your own little sculptures or even jewellery. Traditionally they were created for special occasions, but they also served as gifts to loved ones.

Learn how to cook Japanese food

Cooking is undoubtedly among the most common Japanese hobbies. Food has always served as a strong connection between cultures and thanks to the internet we can learn to cook anything we are in the mood for. Japanese cuisine is deservedly among the most beloved ones around the world.

Ikebana- The art of flower arranging

One of the many reasons why Japanese culture is so beloved is the fact that just how simple yet beautiful most of their designs are. Take a peek into the magical art of flower arranging, which would often suggest a lot of colours and overwhelming crowds in the arrangement. But not in Japan. This meditative traditional Japanese hobby is going to teach you that sometimes less is more and that harmony can come from any plant or flower.

Shodo- Japanese calligraphy

If you had already decided to begin learning Japanese, then Shodo is not going to be too difficult for you. Alright, that’s only true if you already mastered the traditional writing, which might not be due for a couple of years.

Anyway, even if you haven’t even started writing in Japanese, Shodo is a great way to connect with Japanese culture and also relax. Calligraphy is between art and history and a little bit of science. You are certainly going to feel accomplished once you managed to paint a few traditional Japanese characters.

Origami

Origami might be one of the most famous traditional Japanese hobbies without a doubt. Everyone heard about the art of paper folding. You don’t have an idea of how magical this art is until you created your first crane or hummingbird.

Once you become confident, your imagination is the only limit. You can make decorations for home, animals for your loved ones, and of course, useful items such as fans or book covers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Japanese culture is ancient and is filled with rites and traditions to honour the family.

# data[].attributes.body
Bowing

Bowing is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head. Meanwhile, a longer and deeper bow is more respectful and can signify a formal apology or sincere thanks. Don’t worry if you’re just visiting – it’s completely acceptable for foreigners to shake hands in japan.

Slurping noodles

There are lots of interesting dining traditions in Japan, but slurping noodles has to be one of the most fun. When Japanese diners slurp their noodles, it’s seen as both a sign of enjoyment and a compliment to the chef. So next time you order ramen or yakisoba in Japan, feel free to slurp to your heart’s content.

Bathroom slippers

In Japanese homes, there’s typically an area inside the front door, known as genkan, where people swap their shoes for house slippers. Going to the bathroom involves changing slippers again, as cleanliness is an inherent part of Japanese culture. The most important thing to remember is to swap slippers again as soon as you leave the bathroom. It’s considered very embarrassing to leave bathroom slippers on when you re enter a living space.

Onsen etiquette

Visitors to onsens, or hot spring baths, are required to bathe naked in Japan. Traditional onsens do not allow swimsuits, so everyone must shower thoroughly before entering the baths. This means that visitors leave their clothes and large towels in the locker room and take just a small towel with them to the bathing area. As there’s usually nowhere to put the small towels, the traditional solution is to put it on your head.

Morning exercise

Health is important to Japanese culture and the country’s tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that’s been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it’s mostly followed by school children and the elderly.

Sitting seiza

Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it’s a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable.

Bathing

In Japan, a bath at home is for relaxation, rather than for cleaning. So Japanese people do not use soap in their baths. Instead, they shower first and then soak in the bath afterwards.

Coffee

Although tea is a huge part of Japanese culture, the nation is also known for its love of high-quality Jamaican coffee. About 70% of Jamaica’s exported Blue Mountain Coffee goes to Japan.

Geisha

A geish, which translates as “performing artist” in English, is a traditional female entertainer. Although surprisingly, the first geisha were men. As time passed, it became regarded as a mostly female profession and today, geisha are still a much-loved part of Japanese culture.

Oshibori

Japanese restaurants often give customers a moist towel, known as oshibori, to clean their hands before eating. Depending on the season, the towel will be cold or hot. Just don’t use it to clean your face or use it throughout the meal.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Japan's unique culture is a fascinating blend of old and new. With deeply-rooted customs and a continuously-evolving lifestyle, Japan is both proudly traditional and ultramodern. This is a nation that celebrates its strong cultural identity, from food and everyday etiquette to art and education. Whether you're planning a trip or just want to learn more about the country, these 20 facts on Japanese culture will give you a deeper insight into the nation's unique and fascinating culture.

1. Chopsticks

Good table manners are highly regarded in Japanese culture and correctly using chopsticks is an important part of polite dining. So when using chopsticks in Japan, don't stab or cut your food with them. Instead, you should lift the food as it is to your mouth. Don't point at something with your chopsticks, as this is rude in Japanese culture. Meanwhile, you should never leave your chopsticks sticking upright in a bowl of rice, as this is associated with funeral customs. Instead, place them on the chopstick rest in between bites or when you finish eating.

2. Bowing

Bowing (known as ojigi) is the traditional form of greeting in Japan. However, bowing can also be used to indicate gratitude, congratulations, or an apology. In casual daily situations, a bow is often a simple nod of the head. Meanwhile, a longer and deeper bow is more respectful and can signify a formal apology or sincere thanks. Don't worry if you're just visiting - it's completely acceptable for foreigners to shake hands in Japan.

3. Bathroom Slippers

In Japanese homes, there's typically an area inside the front door, known as genkan, where people swap their shoes for house slippers. Going to the bathroom involves changing slippers again, as cleanliness is an inherent part of Japanese culture. The most important thing to remember is to swap slippers again as soon as you leave the bathroom. It's considered very embarrassing to leave bathroom slippers on when you reenter a living space.

4. Anime

One of Japan's best known cultural exports, anime is popular on a global scale. Anime refers to Japanese animation that's either hand drawn or created digitally. Although Japanese anime accounted for 60% of the world's animation in 2016, it's biggest impact has been on modern Japanese culture. If you travel around the country, look out for anime statues, snacks in themed packaging, and character-based advertising.

5. Slurping Noodles

There are lots of interesting dining traditions in Japan, but slurping noodles has to be one of the most fun. When Japanese diners slurp their noodles, it's seen as both a sign of enjoyment and a compliment to the chef. So next time you order ramen or yakisoba in Japan, feel free to slurp to your heart's content.

6. Eating Sushi

Sushi isn't just one of Japan's most popular dishes - it's loved all over the globe. If you want to embrace Japanese culture, it's worth perfecting the way you eat it. The traditional way to eat maki and nigiri sushi is with the fingers, while sashimi is eaten with chopsticks. It's also worth remembering that when dipping sushi in soy sauce, only the fish should touch the sauce. Rice soaks up too much soy sauce, so Japanese people tend to avoid doing this. Meanwhile, the only time mixing wasabi and soy sauce together is acceptable is when eating sashimi.

7. Chankonabe

Most frequently associated with sumo wrestlers, chankonabe is a traditional Japanese stew. Packed with fish, vegetables, meat, and tofu, this high-calorie dish is eaten daily by sumo wrestlers. Sumo wrestlers eat chankonabe with bowls of rice and it provides them with the necessary nutrients for their training.

8. Onsen Etiquette

Visitors to onsens, or hot springs baths, are required to bathe naked in Japan. Traditional onsens do not allow swimsuits, so everyone must shower thoroughly before entering the baths. This means that visitors leave their clothes and large towels in the locker room and take just a small towel with them to the bathing area. As there's usually nowhere to put the small towels, the traditional solution is to put it on your head.

9. Literacy

At a rate of almost 100%, Japan's literacy rate is one of the highest in the world. This is largely thanks to the country's excellent education system, which is compulsory at the levels of elementary and Junior High School. Japan's wealth of great writers may also be linked to the country's focus on literacy. You can experience Japanese literature for yourself by reading the works of some of the nation's best authors.

10. Fugu

Every year, incorrectly prepared fugu causes food poisoning in Japan. Fugu, Japan's toxic blowfish, is one of the most lethal natural products on the planet. Yet it remains an expensive and sought-after delicacy in Japan. Chefs must train for a minimum of three years before undertaking an examination to legally cook and serve it.

11. Morning Exercise

Health is important to Japanese culture and the country's tradition of morning exercise reflects that. Rajio Taiso, introduced by Emperor Hirohito, is a radio exercise program that's been broadcast daily since 1928. It plays every morning for 10 minutes and it's mostly followed by school children and the elderly.

12. Sitting Seiza

Seiza, which means sitting with your legs folded underneath you, is the traditional way to sit on Japanese tatami floors. At formal occasions, sitting seiza is considered appropriate and respectful. Even so, it's a difficult position for the average person to hold. Older Japanese people sometimes sit with their legs out in front of them, which is completely acceptable.

13. Colds and Allergies

When you suffer from a cold or hayfever in Japan, it's polite to wear a mask. Japanese people also avoid blowing their noses in public, as it's seen as rude.

14. Bathing

In Japan, a bath at home is for relaxation, rather than for cleaning. So Japanese people do not use soap in their baths. Instead, they shower first and then soak in the bath afterwards.

15. Walking While Eating or Smoking

Walking down the street while eating is not acceptable in Japan. So you'll sometimes see people standing by vending machines, finishing their drink or snack. Meanwhile, smoking while walking is illegal in many areas. There are designated smoking areas, so don't light up until you reach one.

16. Coffee

Photo by Tomohiro Ohtake via Flickr
Although tea is a huge part of Japanese culture, the nation is also known for its love of high-quality Jamaican coffee. About 70% of Jamaica's exported Blue Mountain Coffee goes to Japan.

17. Geisha

A geish, which translates as "performing artist" in English, is a traditional female entertainer. Although surprisingly, the first geisha were men. As time passed, it became regarded as a mostly female profession and today, geisha are still a much-loved part of Japanese culture.

18. Pouring Drinks

The Japanese consider it impolite to pour your own drink at dinner parties. So it's best to pour everyone else's drinks and then wait for someone else to pour yours.

19. Oshibori

Photo by Charles Haynes via Flickr
Japanese restaurants often give customers a moist towel, known as oshibori, to clean their hands before eating. Depending on the season, the towel will be cold or hot. Just don't use it to clean your face or use it throughout the meal.

20. Non-Verbal Communication

For most Japanese people, non-verbal communication is an important part of social interactions. In Japan, facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language are all seen as influential on the tone of a conversation. Words can have various meanings, so Japanese people often observe non-verbal signals to work out what someone really means.

These interesting facts about Japan are just a taster of all there is to learn about the nation's culture. In Japan, cutting-edge trends sit side by side with ancient traditions. This dynamic cultural mix is part of what makes it such an exciting country to explore.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
20 Facts On Japanese Culture You Probably Never Knew - Japanology

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Japan's unique culture is a fascinating blend of old and new. With deeply-rooted customs and a continuously-evolving lifestyle, Japan is both proudly traditional and ultramodern. This is a nation that celebrates its strong cultural identity, from food and everyday etiquette to art and education.

# data[].attributes.body
Yayoi Kusama is born on the 22nd March in Matsumoto, Japan, Kusama is a Japanese - American, sculpture, installation, performance, and conceptual artist. Kusama grew up as the youngest of four children in a affluent family. Kusama studied art in Matsumoto and Kyoto. During this time in Japan, there was a movement to reject the influences of western culture so Kusama was forced to only study Nihonga, which consisted of creating paintings using 1000 year old traditional Japanese techniques and materials. Her artistic talent was apparent at even at a young age, and Kusama's work was shown in Exhibitions all over Japan. Kusama worked feverishly, fully embracing the hedonist, free-spirited hippie culture of the 1960s, which also included protesting war, patriarchy, and capitalist society. Combining these themes with her own intimate anxieties, she created art that was deeply personal, but also spoke to the injustices of the times. Kusama's artistic output during this 15-year period was prolific and diverse, experimenting with various mediums such as drawing, painting, sculpture, performance, fashion, writing, and installation. She would sometimes work up to 50 hours without rest. The acclaimed installation of one of her Infinity Mirror Rooms containing dotted pumpkins, coupled with the artist's performances alongside the exhibition, renewed the interest and appreciation for her work, along with the interest in the quirky artist herself. Kusama still seeks the limelight and continues to insist on being photographed with her work. Wearing her signature red wig and polka dot garments of her own making, Kusama's personality has become just as infatuating as her art.

# data[].attributes.body
Takashi Murakami is born on the 1st February 1962 in Tokyo, Japan, Murakami is a Japanese painter and sculpture.Though he developed an early appreciation of both traditional Japanese and modern European art,Japanese animation had the most significant impact on him during his formative teenage years. Murakami himself links the otaku subculture directly to post-WW2 Japanese society.Murakami's early works reflect the realities with which he had grown up, exploring the complex post-WW2 relationship between Japan and the U.S. For example, Polyrhythm (1991) uses plastic World War2 soldiers, Sea Breeze (1992) refers to the atomic bomb. These works demonstrate his early development his early development of a playful and seemingly light style that always refer to a more cynical stance.Murakami has inspired and personally mentored the next generation of Japanese artists.

# data[].attributes.body
Vincent van Gogh was born on the 30 March 1853 in Groot-Zundert in the Netherlands and died on the 29 July 1890, van Gogh was a Dutch Post Impressionist painter who became one of the most famous and influential figures in Western art history. In a decade, he created about 2,100 artworks, including around 860 oil paintings, most of which date from the last 2 years of his life. Vincent van Gogh exhibited unstable moods during his childhood, and showed no inclination towards artmaking, though he excelled at languages while attending two boarding schools. In 1884, after moving to Nuenen, Netherlands, van Gogh began drawing the weathered hands, heads and other anatomical features of workers and the poor. From 1886 to 1888, van Gogh became acutely interested in Japanese prints and began to avidly study and collect them. Van Gogh created 900 paintings and made 1,100 drawings and sketches, but only sold one painting during his career.

# data[].attributes.body
Katsushika Hokusai was born on the 31 October 1760 in Edo and he died on the 10 May 1849 at the age of 90. Hokusai was a Japanese artist, he was a ukiyo-e painter and a printmaker during the Edo period. Hokusai began painting at the age of six and learnt woodblock carving too from a young age. In 1804, at a festival in Edo he produced a portrait of a Buddhist Monk, 180 meters long, with help from students, using a broom in place of a paint brush. Hokusai created around 30,000 print designs through his lifetime, Hokusai is widely recognised as on of Japans greatest artists, having modernized traditional print styles through his innovations in subject and compositions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
4K HDR // Japan Cherry Blossoms 2022 - Kawazu Sakura