The Edo Period

Anyone who has seen the Japanese anime, Samurai X (or Kenshin Himora) would at least know a little something about this period in Japanese history. One of the most prolific eras in Japan’s history, the Edo Period was a time of glory and controversy.

The Edo Period covers the years 1600 to 1867. Perhaps one of the most glaring symbols of this period was the samurai. Known as the toughest and most skilled of warriors, samurai were quite distinct from other classes in society. In fact, they were dressed differently from farmers and merchants. More so, they were not allowed to visit places of entertainment. Who’s to say they didn’t though?

During this period, monks and priests – believe it or not – were considered to be marginal elements of the society! They in fact lived in the outer edges of Edo, together with other marginal groups such as gangs and prostitutes!

[tags]history, Edo Period, samurai, Edo[/tags]

Posted February 19th, 2007 by geisha | Comments Off

Japanese New Year

The New Year is always one of the most celebrated holidays all over the world no matter what the culture. Most people know about the Chinese New Year, which is different from the Western New Year. The Japanese New Year, or shogatsu, on the other hand, is celebrated at the same time the Western New Year is. From January 1 to January 3, all businesses are closed all over the country and families take the time out to spend these days with each other.

Parties are held, not only to welcome the coming year, but to forget the past year. These parties are called bonenkai, or “year forgetting parties.” Decorations usually involve plum trees, pine, and bamboo. The traditional food for New Year’s Eve is buckwheat noodles or toshikoshi soba. These noodles symbolize longevity.

Recently, a tradition has emerged which involves watching a music show called kohaku uta gassen. This TV program showcases the most popular J-pop and enka singers.

Posted February 17th, 2007 by geisha | Comments Off

The Katana

Weapon lovers all over the world know all about the Japanese katana. Literally translated as sword, this weapon is a symbol that influenced the shaping of Japan as we know it today. Widely used by the samurais in the 15th century, the katana is a long sword that was used in conjunction with other similar weapons. As opposed to its partner weapons, the katana was mainly used in open combat due to its size and cutting power. It was meant to be used with both hands.

Though it was definitely used as a weapon in the past, today, the katana is one of the most prized items many a collector’s treasure horde. An original katana is quite rare and expensive today. Of course, you can find “copies” easily but the original ones are sought after. It is said that there is a secret to creating the katana, which was lost with the last sword master’s death.
[tags]weapons, katana, sword, samurai[/tags]

Posted February 7th, 2007 by geisha | Comments Off