What is Japanese Culture and Pop Culture? From food culture to pop culture

What is Japanese culture and pop culture?

Japanese culture has developed in a way that traditional and modern elements coexist.

These time-honored traditional events and customs include religious backgrounds such as Shinto and Buddhism, as well as highly spiritual ideas such as Bushido (the way of the Samurai).

Also, different cultures and customs are still preserved for each season and region.

In addition, traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, calligraphy, and flower arrangement, as well as Japanese gardens are part of traditional Japanese culture.

While some traditions have been handed down from generation to generation, modern Japanese pop culture (popular culture), such as anime, manga, video games, and idol culture, transcends national borders and is supported worldwide.

As a source of entertainment such as these animations and games, Japan has a huge global influence and fans all over the world.

List of Japanese Food Culture

This section describes the food culture of Japan. Japanese food culture is diverse and includes traditional foods that have been passed down from generation to generation, as well as new-age food culture.

name	kana indicating the pronunciation of kanji	a few words
kaiten-zushi	kaiten-zushi	A restaurant where sushi rotates on a conveyor belt.
sashimi (raw sliced fish, shellfish or crustaceans)	a quick thrust of the hand	A traditional Japanese dish in which fresh seafood is eaten raw.
tempura	tempura	A typical Japanese deep-fried dish in which shrimp and vegetables are deep-fried in a batter.
eel (esp. the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica)	eel (esp. the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica)	Kabayaki, grilled with sauce, is a particularly famous summer stamina food.
food served during the New Year’s Holidays	food served during the New Year’s Holidays	A festive dish eaten at New Year’s, it is filled with good luck charms.
rice ball (often triangular, sometimes with a filling and wrapped in nori)	rice ball (often triangular, sometimes with a filling and wrapped in nori)	A portable Japanese meal consisting of rice in a rice ball with ingredients wrapped inside.
banquet	set of dishes served on an individual tray for entertaining guests	Each dish is served carefully, one at a time, in the style of Japanese haute cuisine.
Japanese confectionery	Japanese confectionery	A traditional sweet made with red bean paste and glutinous rice cake and decorated with designs for each of the four seasons.
ramen	ramen	A popular noodle dish that developed uniquely in Japan.
udon (thick Japanese wheat noodles)	udon (thick Japanese wheat noodles)	The noodles are made of thick wheat flour and can be eaten hot or cold.
close	close	A traditional Japanese thin noodle dish made from buckwheat flour.
bento (Japanese box lunch)	bento (Japanese box lunch)	Portable food culture packed with meals. Standard at picnics and workplaces.
homemade bento containing food decorated to look like cute characters (from anime, etc.)	flattery	A cute looking bento that resembles a character.
natto (fermented soybeans)	natto (fermented soybeans)	A fermented soybean food with a unique sticky texture.
chankonabe	chankonabe	A nutritious one-pot dish traditionally eaten in sumo rooms.
octopus dumplings	octopus dumplings	A dish originating in the Kansai region, made with octopus in a flour dough and baked into a round shape.
savoury pancake with various ingredients	savoury pancake with various ingredients	A teppan dish originating in the Kansai region, in which ingredients are mixed into a flour batter and baked.
yakitori	yakitori	A popular dish of chicken skewered and grilled, seasoned with sauce or salt.
shabu-shabu (thinly sliced meat boiled quickly with vegetables, and dipped in sauce)	shabu-shabu (thinly sliced meat boiled quickly with vegetables, and dipped in sauce)	A one-pot dish in which thin slices of meat are quickly boiled in hot water and dipped in sauce.
sukiyaki	sukiyaki	A Japanese nabe dish consisting of beef and vegetables simmered in a sweet and spicy broth.
tavern	bar	An easy Japanese mass-market eatery where you can enjoy drinks and food.
family restaurant	soak	A family restaurant unique to Japan, offering a wide range of menu items.

Let’s look at the culture of Japanese food, which has been registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, meals eaten at seasonal milestones unique to Japan with its four seasons, and B-class gourmet food.

kaiten-zushi

Kaitenzushi is a casual style sushi restaurant. You can enjoy eating sushi as it is carried to your table on a conveyor belt.

Sushi plates on the conveyor belt can be taken freely by customers.

And since the price is set per plate, you can easily enjoy fresh sushi in the amount you want. In recent years, a system in which sushi ordered on a touch panel is delivered in a dedicated lane has become popular among families and tourists.

In addition to traditional nigirizushi and maki sushi, the restaurant features a diverse menu of creative sushi, desserts, ramen, udon, and other dishes.

sashimi (raw sliced fish, shellfish or crustaceans)

Sashimi is a typical example of Japanese cuisine. It allows you to enjoy the taste of the seafood ingredients themselves.

Fresh seafood is cut into thin slices and eaten uncooked, and a variety of fish are used depending on the season and region. Tuna, sea bream, squid, salmon, shrimp, etc. are generally popular.

The raw fish is served with wasabi and soy sauce, and the beautifully arranged sashimi is a feast for the eyes.

Depending on the type of fish, it may be served with ponzu (Japanese citrus juice) or salt. Sashimi is eaten raw, so the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chef are truly reflected in the taste and appearance of the fish.

At this upscale restaurant, where skilled chefs prepare beautiful and delicious sashimi in a traditional style, you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

tempura

Tempura is believed to have been introduced from Nagasaki to the east.

Today, tempura is one of the “three flavors of Edo” and is a local cuisine of Tokyo. Tempura spread to the masses during the Edo period (1603-1867), when oil production increased, and is still widely loved as a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Shrimp, kisses, and vegetables (eggplant, pumpkin, shishito pepper, etc.) are the main ingredients, and the ingredients are called “tane” (seeds). Tempura is a dish that enhances the flavor of the ingredients by frying them in a light batter. Tempura is usually served with tempura sauce or green tea salt, but in recent years, tempura with special sauce and unique ingredients have also become popular.

Since the temperature and time of frying greatly affect the taste, expert skill is required at specialty restaurants.

eel (esp. the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica)

Eels have long been a favorite stamina food in Japan. In Japan, it is customary to eat unagi (eel) on the summer day of Doyou (the day of the ox).

Eels are commonly eaten kabayaki or shiroyaki. Kabayaki is a dish in which the eel is slowly grilled while being repeatedly coated with sauce, allowing you to enjoy the crispy outside and fluffy inside texture and the rich flavor of the eel’s abura (oil).

Eel kabayaki is cooked differently in the Kansai (direct broiling) and Kanto (steaming and then broiling) styles, giving it a different flavor in each region and restaurant. Eels are also rich in vitamins and minerals, and are popular as a way to prevent summer fatigue.

food served during the New Year’s Holidays

Osechi ryori is an assortment of special dishes eaten to welcome the New Year. Historically, it began as a dish dedicated to the New Year God, and each dish is associated with the meaning of health, prosperity, longevity, and the flourishing of offspring.

For example, “black soybeans” symbolize health and longevity, “kazunoko” symbolizes prosperity of offspring, and “kombumaki” symbolizes joy from the word “yorokobu” (to be happy). Osechi dishes are usually packed in stacked boxes, and the stacked boxes have the meaning of “layering happiness.

In addition, traditional Osechi ryori is officially considered to be a four-tiered dish, and what is placed on each of the four layers from the first to the fourth is determined. Osechi ryori is unique to each family, and some families prepare their own homemade osechi ryori, while many others purchase osechi ryori at specialty stores.

Recently, Western-style osechi and Chinese-style osechi are being sold, and they are becoming more and more a special occasion feast that does not stick to the traditional style. It may be said that we are entering an era of diversity in osechi.

rice ball (often triangular, sometimes with a filling and wrapped in nori)

Onigiri is a typical Japanese light meal consisting of rice ball with ingredients inside and wrapped in nori (seaweed).

In addition to standard ingredients such as pickled plums, salmon, kelp, and cod roe, in recent years, a variety of variations have appeared, including tuna mayonnaise, grilled meat, and cheese.

Onigiri are easy to make and convenient to carry. For this reason, they are widely used for lunch boxes, picnics, and as daily snacks. Although simple, they have a familiar and comforting taste to the Japanese.

banquet

Kaiseki cuisine is a prestigious Japanese course meal.

It is a gozen eaten especially for celebratory occasions and hospitality. Kaiseki cuisine uses a variety of seasonal ingredients and includes appetizers, sashimi, simmered dishes, grilled dishes, fried dishes, rice, and desserts.

Each dish is beautiful to the eye, and each dish is a luxurious meal that is individually prepared and presented with the utmost care.

Kaiseki cuisine provides an opportunity to not only enjoy the taste of the food, but also to experience the seasonality, beauty, and overall traditional Japanese food culture.

Japanese confectionery

Wagashi is a traditional Japanese confectionery, a glamorous and essential part of tea ceremonies and seasonal events. Most are made primarily from red bean paste and rice cakes, and in summer, transparent wagashi made with agar are also offered.

Wagashi is not just a sweet, but something to enjoy the beauty of seasonal flowers and landscapes that it symbolizes. You can enjoy wagashi that reflect the nature of each season, such as sakura mochi in spring, agar and citrus fruits in summer, and chestnuts in autumn.

Particularly in the tea ceremony, the sweetness of wagashi and matcha together has the effect of enhancing the bitterness of the matcha. While some wagashi are traditional, such as yokan and monaka, others are newly created through the skill and ingenuity of wagashi artisans.

tavern

Izakaya is a place to enjoy drinks and small plates with friends and colleagues.

Sake (beer, shochu, sake, etc.) and dishes such as sashimi, yakitori, tempura, edamame, fried tofu, and grilled fish that go well with sake are served. The casual and relaxed atmosphere is characteristic of the restaurant, making it an easy place to stop by. The restaurant is lively and is frequented by people on their way home from work.

If the izakaya has counter seating, you can enjoy drinks and food alone.

ramen

Ramen is a popular noodle dish in Japan. Ramen is not the same in every restaurant, and each region and restaurant has its own unique soup and ingredients.

Because of the regional characteristics, and because each restaurant has its own specialties and characteristics, we recommend visiting several ramen restaurants to compare their food. Many ramen restaurants are casual places for a quick meal, and once you get used to them, you can easily visit them alone.

In addition, some ramen stores have introduced a “ticket vending machine” ordering system, which makes ordering easier.

family restaurant

Family restaurants are casual restaurants that can be easily visited by families and friends.

With a wide range of menu items including pasta, hamburgers, curry and rice, pizza, salads, soups, and more, everyone can enjoy these reasonably priced dishes.

Many stores also have drink bars where customers can enjoy their favorite beverages.

Many restaurants provide menus with pictures, and an increasing number of them are multilingual, so foreign tourists who are not comfortable with Japanese can also feel at ease.

Japanese Seasonal Culture

Japan has a culture rooted in seasonal life. In Japan, where there are four seasons, the culture of holding various events for each season is deeply rooted.

name	kana indicating the pronunciation of kanji	a few words
first shrine visit of New Year	first shrine visit of New Year	An event to visit shrines and temples to pray for good health and good fortune in the New Year.
long-distance relay race	long-distance relay race	A relay event unique to Japan in which multiple runners join together to run a long distance.
coming-of-age ceremony	coming-of-age ceremony	A ceremony to celebrate turning 20 years old, held annually in January throughout the country.
Valentine	fellows who have fallen out of love with each other	A uniquely Japanese custom in which women give chocolates to men on February 14.
Hanami Culture	flower culture	A traditional Japanese event to enjoy food and drinks while viewing cherry blossoms in spring.
Koinobori (Children’s Day)	carp banner	The custom of decorating a flag in the shape of a carp to wish for the growth of boys on May 5.
Summer festivals and food stalls	summer festival and party	Traditional festivals held in various places in the summer with food and games at street stalls.
Festival of the Weaver (July 7th)	Festival of the Weaver (July 7th)	A traditional event to write wishes on tanzaku strips and decorate bamboo branches on July 7.
high-school baseball	high-school baseball	A baseball tournament for high school students from all over Japan, centered on the summer Koshien Tournament.
viewing the moon	viewing the moon	The custom of appreciating the Mid-Autumn Moon and offering dango (dumplings). Silver grass is also decorated.
athletic meet	sports day	A sporting event held at the school in the fall. Families also participate and enjoy.
Halloween	I’m sorry	Autumn festivals are well-established as costume events in Japan.
Christmas	reel off	In Japan, this event is celebrated by couples and families. Enjoy cake and chicken.

This section describes seasonal events that have taken root as part of daily life in Japan.

long-distance relay race

Ekiden is a winter tradition in Japan.

In particular, the Hakone Ekiden at New Year’s is known throughout Japan as an annual New Year’s event.

Ekiden is a long-distance relay race in which individual athletes run as a relay team to complete a long-distance section of the course, and the sight of the entire team working together to run the distance is a symbol of Japanese sportsmanship. Ekiden is often incorporated into anime and manga, and has also influenced pop culture.

For a better understanding of the New Year, please refer to this article.

coming-of-age ceremony

Coming-of-age ceremony is a ceremony for young people who have reached the age of 20 to celebrate their transition from child to adult.

As a rule, it is held on the second Monday of January. The Coming-of-Age Ceremony is not celebrated at home, but is held at a large venue and organized by the municipality. Many young people participate in the coming-of-age ceremony wearing furisode (long-sleeved kimono), suits, or other formal attire.

Styles such as costumes and hairstyles for coming-of-age ceremonies are also a hot genre in the fashion industry for young people in Japan. Young people participating in coming-of-age ceremonies in very flashy outfits are sometimes featured in the news.

The seals of adulthood are also incorporated into dramas and manga, making it a well-established event in Japan.

Valentine

Valentine’s Day in Japan has evolved in its own unique way.

Originally, it was supposed to be a day for women to give chocolates to the man of their choice. This was triggered by a campaign to promote chocolate in Japan. It spread throughout the country and became established as Valentine’s Day.

In recent years, instead of giving chocolate as a gift to a man who likes you, “giri-choco” to those who have taken care of you, “tomochoco” to friends, and “jicho-choco” to reward yourself have become a part of the youth culture.

As Valentine’s Day approaches on February 14, chocolate events are held in various places. Some chocolates are only available during this season, making it an indispensable event for chocolate lovers.

Hanami Culture

One of the most popular spring events in Japan is hanami (cherry blossom viewing).

Many people eagerly await the blooming of the cherry blossoms that symbolize Japan, and with the Japan Meteorological Agency declaring the cherry blossoms in bloom, the blooming of cherry blossoms and hanami are national events. Although it is described as hanami, many people feel that hanami = cherry blossoms.

When cherry blossoms bloom, hanami (cherry blossom viewing) is held, where people enjoy meals and spend time with friends and family under the cherry blossoms. Many video works and animations featuring dancing cherry petals are recognized around the world as elements expressing the Japanese aesthetic sense.

Many foreign tourists come to Japan with the intention of coming during the cherry blossom season, and the beautiful flowers attract many people.

Dolls’ Festival

Hinamatsuri, held on March 3, is a traditional event to pray for the healthy growth of girls. Hinamatsuri is also called Momo no Sekku (Peach Festival).

Hina dolls are displayed in each home, and dishes such as chirashizushi, hishimochi (water chestnut mochi), steamed hamaguri (clams steamed in sake), and sweets such as kompeito and hina-arare (rice crackers for the Girls’ Festival) are prepared.

The origin of Hinamatsuri is a traditional event that can be traced back to the Heian period.

Through its long history, Hinamatsuri has developed and taken root in people’s daily lives in connection with the culture of their homes and communities.

Koinobori (Children’s Day)

Children’s Day is an event to pray for the growth and health of boys by decorating Koinobori (carp streamers). It is also called Tango-no Sekku.

The heroic Koinobori, the symbol of Children’s Day, is based on the legend that a carp climbs a waterfall to become a dragon. The Koinobori symbolizes strength and growth.

Some families and regions also display May dolls. Children’s Day is celebrated in Japanese households, and the items prepared differ by region.

The most common are “chimaki” and “kashiwa mochi,” but “beko mochi” is prepared in Hokkaido, “akumaki” in Kagoshima, and “sasa dango” in Niigata.

Summer festivals and food stalls

Summer festivals are held to pray for a good harvest and to ward off disease. Each festival has its own rituals and prayers, and each is carried out in accordance with tradition.

Summer festivals feature fireworks displays, Bon dances, and portable shrines. In many cases, food stands selling candy apples, takoyaki (octopus dumplings), and other delicacies are also a part of the fun.

Summer festivals are a traditional part of Japanese culture and attract many people as a summer tradition. Wearing a yukata (light cotton kimono) to participate in a festival is a great way to get in touch with the Japanese spirit.

Festival of the Weaver (July 7th)

Tanabata is a summer event based on the Japanese Tanabata legend.

The legend of Tanabata is that Orihime and Hikoboshi meet once a year in the Milky Way, and it is customary to write wishes on five-color strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches during this time.

Tanabata festivals are held in various locations, and the Sendai Tanabata Festival in particular is famous as one of the three major festivals in Japan. Tanabata is an event to make wishes along with romantic stories, and is deeply connected with Japanese people’s sentiments.

During the Tanabata season, you can see bamboo branches with strips of paper hung from them in various places.

high-school baseball

High school baseball is a baseball tournament and a series of baseball games played at Koshien. High school baseball is one of the extracurricular club activities of high school theory.

The Koshien Tournament held in the summer is a dream stage for Japanese high school students and a tournament that many baseball teams aspire to compete in.

Although the games are played by high school students, they are widely covered on TV broadcasts and in the news. It has become a symbol of Japan’s youth culture. Many players from high school baseball go on to become professionals, making it an event that baseball fans pay close attention to.

viewing the moon

Tsukimi (otsukimi) is an event to view the full moon of September, called the Mid-Autumn Moon. It is also sometimes referred to as Kangetsu.

At otsukimi, there is a custom to enjoy tsukimi dango (dumplings made to look like the moon) while appreciating the moon.

The purpose of tsukimi is to enjoy the four seasons by viewing the moon at night during the season when the hot summer has passed and autumn is in the air. As an event that symbolizes the beauty of the four seasons in Japan, tsukimi is one of the most attractive events for foreigners.

athletic meet

Undokai is an annual event held at elementary and junior high schools in Japan. Some communities and companies hold Sports Day instead of schools.

Participants in a field day compete in a variety of events and compete for their scores. A field day is often a two-team competition, with relays, ball tossing, and cavalry races.

It is a well-known event of Japanese school life, and it has become a standard practice to bring a packed lunch to see the children’s heroic performances. As a rule, the event is held outdoors, so it is held in the fall or spring when the weather is nice.

Halloween

Halloween has only recently begun to take root in Japan.

This event attracts mainly the attention of the younger generation, and costume parties and events are held in various locations. In particular, young people in costume gather in Shibuya and Harajuku, enjoying themselves as anime and other characters.

Halloween cosplay is often themed around Japanese anime and manga characters, and the fusion of Japanese pop culture, Halloween, and youth culture has developed into a seasonal event.

Christmas

Christmas in Japan has little religious significance and has become an event where people enjoy eating cake and chicken with family and friends.

During the Christmas season, illumination and Christmas markets are held in many places, attracting many people.

Food, coffrets, and goods associated with Christmas are sold, and after Halloween is over, the mood quickly turns to Christmas.

The city is beautifully decorated with illuminations, and show windows are also decorated to Christmas specifications, allowing visitors to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere just by strolling the streets.

Unique Japanese Culture

Japan has a variety of cultures that have taken root in people’s lives. Some of these distinctive cultures have been nurtured over a long history and have fans all over the world.

name	kana indicating the pronunciation of kanji	a few words
Onsen/Sento Culture	hot-spring and hot-edge culture	The culture of relaxation in hot springs and public bathhouses throughout Japan.
spirit of hospitality	hospitality	Japan’s unique spiritual culture of being courteous and considerate to visitors.
Shinkansen	bullet train (very high speed)	Japan’s pride and joy, the high-speed rail system is the main means of transportation for domestic travel.
Obon and New Year’s Return	the importance of creating an environment conducive to a child’s learning	Families gather as a year-round event, and the move takes place on a national scale.
crowded train	crowded train	Japanese urban trains are extremely crowded during commuting hours.
bonsai	Buddhist priest’s wife	A traditional Japanese art of growing small trees and enjoying the beauty of nature indoors.
origami (paper folding)	origami (paper folding)	This craft originated in Japan, where paper is folded to make animals and plants.
spring cleaning	major cleanup	A traditional event to thoroughly clean the house at the end of the year and prepare for the New Year.
Year-end and mid-year gifts	Bon Festival gifts	The gift-giving culture is unique to Japan, where gifts are given to each other during the year-end and New Year holidays and summer.
thorough physical examination	human suffering	A comprehensive physical examination to check the health of the body on a regular basis.
coffee shop or cafe where one can read manga, often has Internet facilities	coffee shop or cafe where one can read manga, often has Internet facilities	Facilities where you can read manga and enjoy the Internet. Lodging is also available.
letter bearing the shogun’s scarlet seal	letter bearing the shogun’s scarlet seal	A seal given when worshipping at a shrine or temple. Collected as a commemorative gift.

Here, we will pick up on Japanese seasonal customs and pastimes.

Onsen/Sento Culture

Onsen (hot springs) are natural hot spring water that gushes from underground, and are part of the culture of Japan, a country known for its volcanoes.

Onsen are not just warm water, but have beneficial effects that can be relaxing and therapeutic. There are many unique hot spring resorts throughout Japan, and people bathe in a variety of styles, including open-air baths, sand baths, and footbaths.

On the other hand, sento (public bathhouses) were established at a time when ordinary households did not have their own baths.

Now that most ordinary households have a bath, it has become a place to enjoy a bath not on a daily basis but as a kind of entertainment.

spirit of hospitality

Omotenashi” is a spirit that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

It is an expression of welcome to visitors and refers to the careful attention to detail and thoughtfulness that is given to them. In addition to hospitality in hotels and restaurants, there is also a culture of “entertaining” guests in homes and business settings.

The purpose is to treat visitors and guests from outside with respect and make them feel comfortable. Omotenashi is both respect for the other person and sincerity on the part of the host.

Shinkansen

The Shinkansen is one of the world’s leading high-speed rail systems. It is highly safe and demonstrates Japan’s advanced technological capabilities to the world.

The Shinkansen is a high-speed railroad that opened in time for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and is now used by many people as its route expands throughout Japan.

It is characterized by its fast and accurate operation, and is used as an important means of transportation for business as well as for sightseeing. Some stations offer easy access to the city center without boarding procedures and security checks like airplanes, making it possible to travel long distances conveniently.

Convenience Store Culture

Most convenience stores in Japan are open 24 hours a day.

Convenience stores not only sell food, but also daily necessities, and are small stores that offer services such as bank ATMs, copy machines, home delivery services, and ticketing for convenience.

In addition, some stores offer products that are closely linked to the local community, while others offer products that match the season and other fine touches. Convenience stores support the modern Japanese lifestyle.

Obon and New Year’s Return

Obon and New Year’s are well-established Japanese traditions. Both are meant to cherish the connection with family, ancestors, and close friends.

Obon is an event derived from Buddhism, and since its purpose is to make offerings to the spirits of ancestors, many people return home to spend time with family and friends.

New Year’s Day is likewise an important occasion for family and close friends to gather and celebrate the New Year. These events include reunions with people one does not normally see and traditional rituals such as Obon bonfires and Osechi, with customs and traditions differing from region to region.

crowded train

Crowded trains are a phenomenon found mainly in urban areas in Japan. This phenomenon occurs when many people use the train at the same time during commuting hours.

Especially in large cities such as Tokyo, rush hour commutes can be so crowded that passengers board the trains in sizzling conditions. This is by no means a pleasant phenomenon, but it is now a symbolic scene of urban life in Japan.

Crowded trains are also a true representation of the concentration of people in urban areas behind Japan’s excellent railroads.

bonsai

Bonsai is a traditional Japanese culture in which plants are planted in small pots to reproduce and appreciate natural scenery and trees in miniature size.

The art of bonsai is extremely sophisticated and is an art of beauty and delicacy. Bonsai consists of many elements, not simply trees and other plants in small pots.

It is not only about growing plants and enjoying their growth, but also about pursuing beauty and harmony with nature in a small pot. There are many individual bonsai enthusiasts, and bonsai events are also held.

origami (paper folding)

Origami is a traditional Japanese game in which square pieces of paper called shikishi are folded to create various shapes.

The art can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from young children to the elderly, and ranges from simple to very complex, such as cranes, flowers, and animals.

The only material used is origami, and no other special items are required. Because it can be easily enjoyed on a daily basis, it is popular at homes, schools, and nursing homes.

In recent years, origami has gained attention as an art form and is known throughout the world as Japanese culture.

spring cleaning

Cleaning up is a year-end cleaning tradition before the New Year.

A major cleaning is done at home or at the workplace, and involves thorough cleaning to places that are not usually cleaned and the disposal of unnecessary items. The purpose is to welcome the New Year with a clean slate by having everyone involved in the large-scale cleaning.

This custom is a combination of the Japanese culture of cleanliness and tidiness and the mentality of valuing the New Year. As the end of the year approaches, there is a lot of talk about cleaning up, and some home centers set up corners selling cleaning goods.

thorough physical examination

A physical examination is a health checkup. It is a more precise examination than a routine physical examination to avoid the risk of disease. In some cases, companies and schools conduct regular physical examinations for their employees, while others have individuals undergo physical examinations on a regular basis.

We aim for early detection of diseases through precision examinations using the latest equipment. With the development of medical technology, test items and systems have improved, and this has become a custom that supports Japan’s healthy longevity.

coffee shop or cafe where one can read manga, often has Internet facilities

Mangakissas are stores that provide a space where customers can freely read manga and books set up inside the store; most are open 24 hours a day, and customers can also enjoy eating and drinking inside.

Some also have internet, private rooms, and showers in some stores. You can stay longer or take a nap in a chair at a more reasonable price than staying in a hotel.

It is a space for relaxation and entertainment, as well as a temporary place to stay or use the Internet.

letter bearing the shogun’s scarlet seal

A red seal is a seal that can be inferred when visiting a shrine or temple and serves as proof of visitation.

It is original to that shrine or temple. In some cases, the red seal is handwritten. Goshuin is rooted in Japanese religious culture, and some people consider it a good luck charm or a connection with God by recording it in a Goshuin book when visiting a shrine or temple.

In recent years, the collection of red seals has become a boom, and more and more people are visiting shrines and temples to collect them.

List of Japanese Pop Culture

Japanese pop culture is a very popular field throughout the world.

name	kana indicating the pronunciation of kanji	a few words
animation	expression of surprise when one encounters an older brother or sister	Japan’s unique style of animation culture. Popular in Japan and abroad.
cartoon	cartoon	It is a unique Japanese comic culture and is enjoyed by people of all ages.
karaoke (singing to taped accompaniment)	karaoke (pun)	An entertainment culture that originated in Japan where friends enjoy singing together.
cosplay (dressing in costume, esp. as a manga character, etc.)	copying and pasting	A culture where people wear costumes of anime and video game characters and enjoy them as a hobby.
game culture	culture of the arts	Japan’s world-class video game and arcade game culture.
idol	rub together (e.g. one’s hands)	A unique Japanese entertainment culture in which groups of young women and men interact with their fans.
J-POP	holy cow	A pop music genre unique to Japan, characterized by the diversity of its artists.
maid cafe	Meidofuje (Japanese-style restaurant chain)	Staff members dressed in maid uniforms serve customers, symbolizing Akiba-kei culture.
young-adult fiction	express	Light novels for young people, often used as the basis for anime and video games.
figure	whimsy	Hobby of collecting elaborate models of anime and video game characters.
slingshot	slingshot	A gambling pastime unique to Japan, pachinko halls abound.
SFX	SFX	Special shooting techniques are used in such visual works as “Godzilla” and “Ultraman”.
Otaku Culture	respecting the authorities and denigrating ordinary citizens	A culture of people with a strong interest in anime, manga, and video games. Active events and community.
anime song	elder brother	Theme songs and insert songs for animated films have been established as a unique musical genre.

There are many games and animations from Japan that have fans all over the world, and events are also held. Here are some examples of Japanese pop culture that are popular around the world.

animation

Anime is a typical Japanese pop culture. Japanese anime is popular all over the world, and Japanese anime events are sometimes held overseas as well.

Many foreign tourists also visit Japan for anime, which has become a part of Japanese culture.

In Japan, anime works can be seen not only on TV broadcasts, but also in movie theaters, online distribution, and OVA (original video animation), as well as in concept cafes and in many merchandise stores.

cartoon

Manga, along with anime, is a representative of Japanese pop culture. Manga is in comic form and uses pictures and text to depict character dialogue and action.

Comics cover a wide range of genres, including shonen manga, shoujo manga, seinen manga, and manga for women. Manga are often adapted into animated cartoons, and an increasing number of works can be enjoyed as both comics and animated cartoons.

karaoke (singing to taped accompaniment)

Karaoke is an entertainment that originated in Japan.

Karaoke is derived from the word “Kara (empty) Oke (orchestra),” which means that only the accompaniment is played back and people sing along with the sound source in their private rooms.

The lyrics are displayed on a screen in the room, and the guests enjoy singing along with the music. Karaoke rooms are completely private, making it a popular place to enjoy karaoke with friends and family without any worries.

Karaoke has permeated the lives of Japanese people as a form of easy entertainment enjoyed by people of all ages. Recently, more and more people are doing solo karaoke (hitokara), and there is also karaoke that can be enjoyed in harmony and online karaoke that can be enjoyed in the comfort of one’s own home.

cosplay (dressing in costume, esp. as a manga character, etc.)

Cosplay is the enjoyment of dressing up as your favorite anime, manga, or video game character. In some cases, the characters are anime, manga, video games, movies, or even original characters.

And unlike mere fancy dress, the emphasis is on “becoming” the character. In Japan, cosplay is especially common in Akihabara and at events.

Cosplayers are extremely popular for their skillful reproduction of costumes and props, as well as their makeup skills, and can be considered a symbol of Japanese pop culture. Nowadays, cosplay can be said to be one of the symbols of Japanese pop culture.

game culture

Japan’s video game culture has had a major impact on the world. World-renowned video game companies such as Nintendo, Sony, and Square Enix are located in Japan.

Software is also popular, with titles such as “Super Mario,” “Final Fantasy,” and “Pokemon” known to have players all over the world. Recently, more and more games are being enjoyed not on game consoles but on smartphones.

idol

Japanese idols are entertainers who gain popularity through music, dance, talk, and events.

Recently, idols that allow direct interaction with fans have become particularly popular, featuring unique systems such as general elections and color-coding within the group. Idol groups with a system that allows them to share the process of their growth with their fans are often involved in events that allow them to interact with their fans.

It also serves as a gateway to the entertainment industry for young people, with some becoming actors after graduating from idol groups.

J-POP

J-POP is a genre of pop music in the Japanese music scene. In Japan, techno-pop and city pop have gained popularity since the 1980s.

This trend has created the Japanese music culture known as J-POP. Many artists, from band-style artists to solo artists, are active in this field. Anime songs (anison) are also a part of J-POP and are gaining popularity.

maid cafe

Maid cafes are cafes that are mainly located in Akihabara. The waitresses wear maid costumes and serve customers by taking their orders.

In maid cafés, customers are called “masters” and receive unique services that are different from those offered in regular cafés. The culture of maid cafés is attracting attention as a unique Japanese subculture.

young-adult fiction

Light novels are novels written especially for young readers. The writing of light novels is concise, simple, and easy to read, and is often characterized by a conversational structure.

While the novel has the traditional format of a novel with rich emotional expression and many descriptions that bring out the characters’ personalities, it also includes pop culture elements influenced by manga, anime, and video games.

Many light novels are related to anime and games, and are popular among people who do not read novels very often, younger people, and people who like games. Some light novels have been adapted into anime.

figure

Figures are three-dimensional representations of anime and game characters. Some are very elaborately made and are popular as collector’s items among anime and game lovers.

In particular, elaborately made, limited edition, and large-size figures can command a premium price. There are many specialty stores that deal only in figurines, and they are sometimes given away as prizes in game arcades.

slingshot

Pachinko is a popular form of gambling entertainment, and there are many pachinko parlors throughout Japan. The pachinko tables at the stores are regularly replaced with new ones to prevent boredom.

Some of these pachinko machines feature popular anime and video game characters, as well as celebrities, and have gained popularity.

This is a field that has seen a fusion with pop culture, but there are age restrictions due to the gambling nature of the game.

SFX

Tokusatsu is an abbreviation for “special photography. These are Japanese visual effects and special filming techniques used in movies and TV dramas.

Many special effects use miniatures and stuffed animals. The technique used is to create a miniature cityscape and then film a scene in which a giant monster appears and destroys it.

Many of them are based on monsters and heroes and are intended for children, but the genre is also popular among adults.

Otaku Culture

An otaku is an enthusiast who has a hobby or a very broad knowledge of a particular thing. Any genre can be described as an otaku, but enthusiasts of anime, manga, video games, and idols, in particular, are called otaku.

Otaku culture is a part of Japanese pop culture, and Akihabara is known as the sacred land of otaku. This otaku culture is recognized as one of Japan’s pop culture.

anime song

Anison is an abbreviation for anime song, which refers to theme songs and insert songs of anime. Many anime songs match the worldview and characters of anime, and are recognized as a genre within J-POP.

In many cases, ani-songs are performed by voice actors. In some productions, the songs are sung by anime characters, while in other cases they are sung by different artists. Voice actors often become popular for singing ani-songs, and many ani-song events and live performances are held.

Motenas Japan for a Japanese cultural experience

In addition to the traditional culture inherited from the past, many new cultures unique to the island nation have emerged in Japan. In this article, we have focused on pop culture and the unique culture of Japan.

To experience traditional Japanese culture, contact Motenas Japan!

Motenas Japan offers traditional culture such as Kabuki and Ninja from planning and operation for foreign VIPs. We can also provide voice acting and manga writing experiences.

Click here to contact Motenas Japan!