Nippon Notes

Join us in this in episode as we delve into Japanese garden design, symbolism, and philosophy. We discuss about Zen rock gardens, tea gardens, and strolling gardens.

We trace the evolution of Japanese fashion, from traditional kimono and yukata to avant-garde and street fashion in places like Harajuku.

Join us in exploring traditional Japanese folklore, mythological creatures (yōkai), Shinto creation myths, and their presence in modern media.

We investigate youth and fringe subcultures including Harajuku fashion, hikikomori, maid cafes, visual kei, and Japan’s underground scene.

In this episode, we break down key elements of Japanese communication: honorific speech (keigo), non-verbal cues, writing systems, and their cultural implications.

Join us in examining how nature and seasons influence Japanese culture, especially the symbolism of cherry blossoms and sacred landscapes like Mount Fuji.

In this episode, we explore the customs and routines in Japanese daily life, covering etiquette, work culture, education system, and social behavior.

We explore traditional and modern Japanese architecture as we explain concepts like wabi-sabi, ma (space), and the Metabolist movement.

We trace the development and global spread of anime, manga, and J-pop.

In this episode, we look into Japan’s classical arts: tea ceremony, ikebana, kabuki, noh, calligraphy, and their place in contemporary culture.

We explore the coexistence of Shinto and Buddhism in Japanese life - major rituals, shrines, temples, and spiritual practices.

We discuss Japanese cuisine (washoku) - cultural heritage, key ingredients, dishes, street food, classifications and food aesthetics.

We discuss about major Japanese festivals, their historical and religious origins, unique regional variations, and modern celebrations.

We explore Bushidō (the samurai code), its philosophical roots in Confucianism and Zen, and its lasting impact on modern Japanese values and martial arts.

In this episode we look at the foundational elements of traditional and modern Japanese culture, including topics like harmony, respect, community values, the influence of history, and examples of rural vs. urban cultural norms.

From imperial expansion and the devastation of WWII to economic miracles and political reformation, witness the turbulence and recovery of 20th-century Japan.

A brief yet pivotal era of liberal movements, artistic experimentation, and growing tensions that would soon lead Japan down a darker path.

Japan transforms rapidly - samurai dissolve, Westernization takes hold, and the nation redefines itself as a modern industrial power.

Explore a peaceful, isolationist Japan under Tokugawa rule. Learn about rigid class structures, cultural zeniths in art and literature, and the seeds of future change.