Influences of Beauty and Art (AP)

白い肌 (Shiroi hada)

Light/pale skin is highly valued, symbolizing beauty.

うるさい人 (Urusai hito)

Loud or overly talkative individuals may be perceived as inconsiderate or unattractive.

Gagaku

Ancient court music from the Heian period, characterized by silence and introspection.

Koto and Shakuhachi

Traditional instruments known for their haunting and expressive sounds.

J-Pop

Became popular in the 1990s, characterized by catchy melodies and vibrant performances.

Ukiyo-e

Traditional Japanese woodblock printing technique.

Origami (折り紙)

Art of paper folding, originating in the Edo Period.

Calligraphy (習字: Shūji)

Artistic expression through kanji and kana characters.

Uniqlo (ユニクロ)

Affordable and versatile clothing brand founded by Tadashi Yanai.

Yamato people

98% of the population, with a distinct cultural and historical identity.

Ainu

Indigenous people of Hokkaido with unique language and cultural traditions.

Ryukyuan

Indigenous to the Ryukyu Islands, influenced by Chinese and Okinawan cultures.

Burakumin

Historically marginalized group associated with "unclean" professions; still faces social stigma.

Alienation

Emphasis on conformity and cultural homogeneity can make non-Japanese individuals feel excluded.

Assimilation

Encouraged historically to promote national identity and social cohesion.

Oda Nobunaga (織田信長)

Feudal lord in the 16th century; pivotal in unifying Japan during the Sengoku period.

Hattori Hanzo (服部半蔵)

Legendary ninja and strategist under the Tokugawa clan.

Tomoe Gozen (巴御前)

Female samurai warrior during the Genpei War (12th century).

Anime

Animated series with fantastical storylines and stylized visuals.

Manga

Graphic novels featuring intricate art and immersive storytelling.

Subculture - Otaku

Fans of anime and manga, often attending conventions and events.

Harajuku Fashion

Known for its bold and eclectic street style, featuring layers, vintage, and modern mixes.

Lolita

Victorian-inspired dresses.

Gyaru

Tan skin, blonde hair, and accessorized outfits.

Setsubun (February 3)

Marks the beginning of spring; drives away bad spirits and welcomes good luck.

Hina Matsuri (Girls' Day, March 3)

Celebrates young girls' well-being and prays for their happiness.

Golden Week (Late April to Early May)

A week-long holiday consisting of multiple national holidays.

Bowing

A common greeting, symbolizing respect.

Keigo (敬語)

Use of honorific language to show respect.

Gift-Giving

An important custom, reflecting gratitude and respect, with careful attention to presentation.

Group Harmony (和: Wa)

Emphasis on avoiding conflict and prioritizing group cohesion over individual desires.

Cherry Blossom Viewing (花見: Hanami)

A spring tradition of enjoying cherry blossoms with picnics, symbolizing renewal and the fleeting nature of life.

Tea Ceremony (茶道: Chanoyu)

A highly ritualized tradition of preparing and serving matcha (powdered green tea).

Ikebana (生け花)

Japanese flower arrangement that focuses on balance, asymmetry, and harmony between nature and man-made elements.