-Julia Obuchi- 12th Grade Student
Japan, The Blend Of Old And New…
"What is Japan like?"
From Old Kyoto to Akihabara Electric Town, Japan features a seamless blend of the old and the new. The country honors its past through their 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites but also prides themselves in their futuristic technological advancements, best exemplified by their title as the world’s top exporter of robots.
Despite the country’s reputation of being ethnically homogenous, its culture varies from region to region, attracting foreigners of all types who are able to appreciate the variety in food, customs, and aesthetics.
Personally, I believe Japan is synonymous with a high-end department store. Japanese citizens are often taught to take pride in their work and efforts which is reflected by the quality of materials and goods produced by the country. The country is also very safe, so much so that grade school children can go to school by foot, often unattended. Additionally, as mentioned before, Japan offers a culture slightly different depending on the region as well as a notable change in climate as the seasons come and go. The food, events, and hues of nature reflect the seasonal changes just like a department store’s seasonal catalog.
Typically, I visit Japan with my mother every summer for about a month. We use that time to visit friends and families and cities I have never been to before. More often than not, the majority of our time in the country is dedicated to taking care of my grandmother who lives in Kyotango which is part of the countryside of Kyoto Prefecture. My most vivid and cherished memories are from those hot, muggy days where I frequently trekked the road next to rice paddies, went on solo adventures to the market and school playground, traveled to the beach and swam under the blue marble sky, or climbed onto to the roof and watched as my world was engulfed in heavy rain and rhythmic sounds.
Going to local matsuris or Japanese festivals and watching the large, thundering fireworks at night were also commonplace during the summer. Lighting convenient store sparklers and senkou hanabi, a traditional type of Japanese firework, with friends and family are also among my many fond memories from my travels to Japan.
"What do you cherish most about your cultural heritage?"
What I cherish most about my heritage is the craftsmanship. The Japanese are exceptionally skilled in the creation of paper crafts, wood and metal furniture, and ceramic objects. From traditional instruments to ornate tea sets and pottery, these handmade products all reflect the great quality and care put into these goods during the production process.
If you visit historical locations such as Old Kyoto, you’ll see many family run businesses that sell specialized goods. For instance, you may run into kimono shops that offer a wide selection of elegant, handmade kimonos and accessories or confectionary shops run by skilled wagashi makers.
Personally, my favorite handmade products include the traditional tatami mats and paper sliding doors that can be found in many Japanese households. They are simple, practical components of the home and give off a fresh odor that clears the mind and soul.
Next Time...
Mrs. Sutaria's Post
Comentarios