Japan is rich in cultural significance. It has age old traditions, manners and duties that the citizens abide and adhere to till date. Each and every Japanese tradition is celebrated with high gusto and full dedication. Also, Japanese people are very devoted and enjoy even the simplest of things. Here are the top 5 traditions that you will hardly find anywhere else in the world!
Zabuton Throwing
Imagine watching a sumo match and feeling like yelling at one of the players (yokozuna). Normally, you can’t do that but here, well you can do something close to it. Zabuton (pillows) throwing is a tradition where you get to throw pillows at the yokozuna you don’t like or are getting frustrated, in general. It is banned in a few places due to safety reasons but still, sounds pretty interesting to me!?
Bon Dance Festival (Obon)
This day is celebrated in the memory of ancestors as it is believed that they return once a year to visit their families. It is an age old tradition which people really look forward to. People offer food, flowers and prayers and enjoy this time reminiscing and having a lively time, visiting temples, enjoying with the community and so much more.
Setsubun
Setsubun is celebrated in February, every year. It refers to seasonal division, particularly spring as it is a very important season for them. Is it celebrated with the spirit of cleansing and purification by roasting soybeans? It takes place at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
Cherry Blossom Viewing is the Japanese tradition of enjoying the ephemeral beauty of flowers, especially cherry blossoms and it is widely looked forward to. In most cities of japan, the bloom happens in April. The website, livejapan.com, wrote that for a genuine whiff of the cherry blossom scent, pour hot water over the flower. The rising steam carries an elegant and sweet aroma, which is the natural scent of sakura. Take this advice, my friend! One of the best places to observe this beautiful phenomenon is Kinkaku-Ji, along the Meguro River.
Tea Ceremony
The tea ceremony in Japan is an exotic and pleasant cultural tradition where people prepare and present Matcha which is essentially powdered green tea. The art of doing this is known as Temae. The origin of this ceremony was Zen Buddhism. This tradition represents harmony, respect, purity and calmness.
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