Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most iconic rural destinations. Famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses—steep thatched roofs designed to shed heavy snow—it’s a place where time slows down and tradition lives on.
The village is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and draws visitors year-round for its fairytale-like scenery, cozy atmosphere, and magical winter light-up events. Whether you visit in summer greenery or under a blanket of snow, Shirakawa-go promises a timeless glimpse into traditional Japan.

Why is Shirakawa-go Famous?

Shirakawa-go is famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, a rare architectural style with steep thatched roofs built to withstand heavy snow. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its timeless scenery, preservation of rural culture, and magical winter landscapes. These houses—some over 250 years old—are called gassho-zukuri, meaning “constructed like hands in prayer.” The ste　cr5ep roofs are designed to shed snow easily, allowing families to live and farm even in the harshest winters. Many are still lived in today, while others have been converted into museums, guesthouses, and local restaurants.

I visited in mid-January, when the village was completely covered in deep snow. The thatched roofs looked like giant marshmallows, and soft lantern light shone from the windows as evening set in. Locals shoveled snow from their doorways, and children played near the footpaths. It wasn’t just beautiful—it felt like the village was quietly alive beneath the snow.

The first time I saw Shirakawa-go in the snow, I literally gasped. It’s one of those places where the photos just don’t do it justice—you have to feel the cold air, see the light, and hear the quiet for yourself.

Must-See Spots in Shirakawa-go

🔹 Shiroyama Viewpoint (城山展望台)

The best-known viewpoint overlooking the village. From here, you can see the full cluster of thatched roofs nestled in the snowy valley.
I hiked up in the late afternoon while soft snow was still falling. From the top, everything was covered in white—rooftops, fields, even the distant mountain slopes. Smoke rose from the chimneys, and the only sounds were footsteps crunching and the shutter clicks of other travelers.

🔹 Wada House (和田家)

The largest and best-preserved farmhouse open to the public. Inside, visitors can explore traditional tools, a central hearth, and wooden architecture.
Stepping inside from the snow felt like entering a different world. The warmth of the hearth, the smell of smoke, and the dark wooden beams overhead made it easy to imagine life here hundreds of years ago—even in deep winter.

🔹 Suspension Bridge (であい橋)

The main pedestrian entrance into Shirakawa-go, offering your first view of the village surrounded by mountains.
I arrived around 10 AM. As I crossed the bridge, I could already see the gassho-style houses lined up across the snow. The path was a bit slippery, but many other visitors were stopping to take photos just like me—it was the perfect first stop.

🔹 Shirakawa Hachiman Shrine (白川八幡神社)

A quiet shrine located at the edge of the village, surrounded by tall trees and usually less crowded.
I visited in the early afternoon and it was peaceful, with only a few people around. The snow had been cleared on the path, and walking through the torii felt like stepping into a calm, hidden corner of the village. I sat on a wooden bench for a short break before heading back into the main area.

I always tell people to take their time here—don’t just rush for the famous viewpoint. Wander the back paths, peek inside a farmhouse, and stop for a warm drink. That’s when Shirakawa-go really stays with you.

Best Time to Visit Shirakawa-go

If you’re looking for the most magical scenery, winter is by far the best time to visit Shirakawa-go. From January to February, the village transforms into a snowy wonderland, with thick layers of snow blanketing the rooftops and smoke curling from chimneys. The highlight is the winter light-up events, when the entire village glows in the evening—truly like a scene from a storybook. This period is extremely popular, so advance booking is essential.

Other Seasons at a Glance

• Spring (April–May): Cherry blossoms bloom in late April, with snow still on the mountains. Quiet and scenic.
• Summer (June–August): Green rice fields and clear blue skies. Great for peaceful walks and nature photography.
• Autumn (October–November): Vibrant fall colors and cool weather. Ideal for capturing traditional architecture against red and gold leaves.

Winter is my favorite—no contest! But honestly, there’s never a bad time to come. Each season has its charm, and I’ve visited in every one. Just remember to dress for the weather, especially if you’re heading up to the viewpoint!

Shirakawago Winter Illumination 2026: What You Need to Know

The winter illumination events transform Shirakawa-go into a magical snow globe scene.
The illumination events in 2026 will be held on January 12 (Mon), 18 (Sun), 25 (Sun), and February 1 (Sun).

Important Notes for 2026:

• Advance reservation required for all visitors during illumination dates
• Private vehicles prohibited – must use designated shuttle buses
• Accommodations book out 6-8 months in advance
• Temperature can drop to -10°C – dress accordingly

Caede’s promotion: 
We have secured a limited number of highly sought-after tickets that are normally very difficult to obtain, and we offer them as part of our tour. We hope you will consider joining us. Check here!

Short History of Yokai

Japanese people have been drawing pictures of various yokai for over a thousand years, and through these pictures, they have been satirizing and making fun of people and the world. While some of them might have looked scary, they were mainly used for a comedic effect. For example, in a painting from the end of the Edo period, a large group of Japanese monsters confronts an enemy who has arrived with monkeys in tow. The scene reflects the state of the world at the time when foreign ships were constantly appearing in the surrounding waters.

The International Research Center for Japanese Studies has created and opened to the public a “database of images of monsters and yokai” based on the yokai paintings in its collection. The database contains a wide variety of images of yokai, which are not only sinister but also somewhat comical and cute.

Kappa the Water Yokai

Kappa is one of Japan’s most famous monsters. The name ‘kappa’ comes from the fact that they appear in rivers and have the appearance of a child. Legends and stories of kappa have been handed down from place to place in Japan, and their names and appearances differ slightly. Many legends tell of a child-like figure, green all over, with a turtle shell on its back. It also carries a round dish on its head. They say that this plate is always filled with water, and if the plate dries up or breaks, the kappa will lose its power.

In addition, most kappa depicted today look like reptiles covered with fish-like scales, but in natural history books before the 18th century, they were often depicted as ape-men. In the mid-18th century, kappa were created in the form of amphibians like frogs and sponges to make them more acceptable to the people of Edo, a city without mountains.

One of the most famous theories about the origin of the kappa’s appearance is that it is the drowned body of a child killed by the parents for population control. It is said that the kappa was a lie created by adults so that other children would not know that this was happening. It is a sad story, but in the Edo period, this was common practice. A less disturbing origin story is that kappa were used by parents to scare their kids away from the water because kappa would pull them down if they get too close.

Kappa’s Character

Despite their sad roots, kappa are portrayed in books as funny and ditsy. They love to wrestle and play pranks and are often depicted as being caught and chastised by humans. On the other hand, there are many legends of kappa being grateful, helping with rice planting, and delivering fish every day in return for gratitude.

It is said that cucumbers are the favorite food of kappa, because fresh cucumbers were an indispensable vegetable for offerings to the water gods. Kappa are said to be the gods of water, which is why kappa are said to like cucumbers. In reference to this, thinly rolled sushi with cucumbers came to be called ‘kappamaki’.

Rokurokubi the Longneck in Japan

A rokurokubi is normally a normal human being, but when it sleeps, it loosens up and stretches its neck abnormally long. Their neck muscles sport horizontal wrinkles and purple streaks. For some reason, the rokuro-neck seems to be found only in women. It is said to be inherited from mother to daughter.

Some people thought that the rokuro-neck was a monster. While others thought that it was a person who was born with an abnormality. Another theory is that the rokuro-neck was a ‘detached soul disease’, in which the soul leaves the body.

There is an eyewitness account about a geisha in Shin-Yoshiwara, Edo. Her head grew to about 30 cm in length and hung down while she was sleeping with a guest at night. It is suggested that this geisha was a person whose neck would stretch when she slept and relaxed her mind.

The Servant Girl’s Loose Head

There is a story related to Rokurokubi about a servant girl who was hired by a rich family in Tsuruga, Fukui. The servant had a chronic disease that caused her to have too much phlegm. Because of this, she often groaned late into the night. One night, the Lord’s wife woke up to the sound of her moaning. So he went next door to check on the servant’s bedroom. The Lord’s wife woke up to the sound of moaning and went to check on the servant’s bedroom next door.

Under the small folding screen by the servant’s bedside was something round and wriggling. When he brought the light closer to look at it, he found that it was the head of the servant. It was trying to climb up the screen, falling down, and trying to climb up again. The author of this story said that the servant girl was suffering from a kind of detached soul disease. He said that the servant’s head had not really left her body. But in people with a lot of phlegm, the soul leaves the body and forms a head.

The Hair Cutter Yokai

This one is funny and scary at the same time. In the Edo period, there were many incidents of people having their hair cut off without realizing it. The yokai ‘Hair Cutter’ was believed to be the culprit. Its large beak and hands look like the blades of scissors. His head resembles a bird, but his body is more human-like, and he even wears a red loincloth. Their whole body is black because they do evil under the cover of darkness.

Apart from this, foxes were also thought to cut off human hair and eat it. This story has been around for a long time. One noblewoman was victimized at the end of the Heian period. The origin of the tradition of hair cutting by foxes goes back to China. However, unlike in Japan, it is men who are victimized. It is said that the foxes in that region disguised themselves as beautiful women to commit the crime.

As you can see, Japanese folk stories can be quite scary and contain hidden messages. If you come to Japan and dig a bit deeper, you can learn a lot more about Japanese culture and history through stories!

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including guides who can tell you all about Japanese culture. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

History of Japanese Calligraphy

Japan didn’t have its own writing system until it was imported from China in the 6th century. With the import of the Chinese writing system came calligraphy. In the beginning, the writing style was very similar to the Chinese style. But soon after the invention of hiragana and katakana Japan started to develop its own style of calligraphy.

Early on in the Heian period, it was only members of the Imperial court, noblemen, and higher-up Buddhist clergymen who were taught how to read and write. Commoners only started to learn reading and writing from the Edo period, and it was still mostly the upper classes who went to school. Lower-classed individuals came together to pay a young teacher to teach their kids elementary reading and writing. And similar to the West, girls were much less likely to be educated than boys.

From the Meiji period, more and more people get an education as this was the start of public education in Japan. The Japanese education system was modeled after European systems at first. After WW2, American influences also became visible in the education system. But through it all, calligraphy has always been a basic subject.

Calligraphy in Japan Today

Every schoolchild spends a few hours per week practicing their calligraphy skills. They learn how to read and write from age 6, and this education continues all the way through to university. There are many kanji (Chinese characters) to study so it takes them much longer to learn how to write like an adult in Japan. It is said that you can tell someone’s level of education quite easily by seeing which kanji they know.

But it is not only the number of kanji that you can read and write that is important. The way you write them is almost equally important to many potential employers as well. In Japan, it is still believed by many that you can tell someone’s character by their handwriting. Handwritten cover letters and resumes are still par for the course in Japan, especially for those who want to get hired by a large and more traditional company. This means that not just learning how to write kanji, but also learning how to write them neatly is an important part of elementary education in Japan.

Besides being important for getting a job, calligraphy is also believed to instill a sense of discipline and teach etiquette. Moreover, it is believed that practicing calligraphy can make one feel more tranquil and peaceful.

Calligraphy as Art and Performance

Calligraphy is not only of professional use, though. For many Japanese, calligraphy is an artistic hobby. Just like many people love to draw or paint, in Japan, calligraphy can also be used as a way to express yourself. Poetry is also often written down beautifully, as are Buddhist sutra. Also, whenever there’s an important word shared with the country, such as the ‘word of the year‘ or a new era’s name, this is done by having someone make a large calligraphy ‘painting’.

A newer style of calligraphy is making it into performance art. Performers use a very large brush and paper and write down a kanji with flair. It almost looks like a dance, and sometimes they use music for the performance as well. Usually, performers are of high school age, and it is often done in a group.

Writing Technique

If you want to do calligraphy properly, you need to start with getting the right materials. That means that you will need to get a fude brush, sumi ink, and a suzuri inkwell. What you write on will of course also make a big difference. So for best results, you will need hanshi paper, a shitajiki felt pad, and a paperweight.

The way you hold your brush also matters. You can either hold it like a regular pencil, but for some extra stability, you can choose to also add your ring finger. With that method, you will use all your fingers except for the pinky. Then, it is good to know how many strokes are in the kanji that you’ve chosen, and what the correct stroke order is.

Furthermore, it is a good idea to go over making the strokes in your mind before you actually put your brush on the paper. You only get one chance to get it right per paper, so think before you start as otherwise, you will likely waste a lot of paper.

Workshops in Japan

Would you like to have an authentic calligraphy experience when you are in Japan? These days, many calligraphy teachers offer workshops to tourists who are interested in trying their hand at it. In Tokyo, you can for example book a class at Tokyo Calligraphy Class. In Kyoto, you can try a workshop at Calligraphy Kyoto.

If you are looking for a more intimate private experience at the home of one of our calligraphy specialist guides, you can contact us for more information.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations related to calligraphy and other Japanese culture. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Japanese-style Living and Removing Shoes

Why are Japanese people so adamant about taking off their shoes before entering? It is because cleanliness and hygiene are important concepts in Japan. Most Japanese people will take off their shoes in their houses. So a Japanese home will very often have a designated place to leave shoes right after entering a home, even if there is not much space.

This small space right after the entrance is called a ‘genkan’. A genkan is usually a little lower than the main part of the house. It is the only place in the house you can wear your shoes. You are supposed to leave your shoes at the entrance and step into the room.

The floor of a traditional Japanese room is made of tatami (straw mat). Some rooms may have a floor made of wood, more often than not covered with carpets. In both cases, in a traditional-style room, there will be Japanese-type bedding called futon on the floor at night.

Zabuton

These futons are often rolled up again during the day so the room can be used for something else. When they have just a short rest, many people lie down directly on the tatami floor. As it is not too hard and comfortable for your body especially during the warm summer months during which tatami tends to stay cooler.

In a traditional living room, there are no high tables and chairs, but there is often a low table and cushions called zabuton. That means that both day and night, Japanese people live very close to the floor, making it even more important for the floors to be clean at all times. This is the main reason why Japanese people live without wearing shoes in the house. Whether you wear socks or are barefoot doesn’t matter, that will depend on your personal preference and whether your feet get cold easily.

History of Removing Shoes in Japan

There are two main reasons why Japanese people developed the clean custom of taking off their shoes. Even though nowadays there are quite a few especially younger people opt for a comfortable western-style bed and western-style floors. They often don’t even a single tatami room in the house. Firstly, Japanese people used to live in very small houses. There was not enough space to put big fixed furniture such as beds, tables, and chairs. How did they use their cramped quarters to live? They had a simple solution; using the same room for multiple purposes.

In the Edo period, normal families who lived downtown used to live in tiny one-room apartments of only around 8m2 big. During the daytime, this room was used as a living room. They put a low table on the floor with some cushions around it. The people may have worked using this table.

During meals, it becomes a dining room. They eat meals using the same table. In the evening after dinner, the room is used as a bedroom. The table is taken away to the corner of the room and spread the futon in the middle of the room. Then in the morning, they fold the futon and store them in the closet or just put them in the corner of the room.

Some even think that paper-folding art origami has developed in Japan. Because the Japanese people fold many things when they don’t use them. Futon, sensu (folding fans), and bath covers are some good examples of the type of stuff that gets folded and tucked away when not in use.

Boundary Between Outside and Inside

Another reason why they keep this custom is to separate the outside from the inside clearly. Many Japanese people have to work hard and experience various difficulties outside. But home should be a place where they can relax. Both the feet and the mind are relieved by taking off the shoes. The genkan (entrance) is both a physical and spiritual boundary for Japanese people.

Even though some houses may look like western houses, the residents most likely take off their shoes at the entrance and stay barefoot inside. Even if they don’t have a tatami floor inside. If a western person wonders why Japanese people take off their shoes, it is good for them to realize that conversely, Japanese people may wonder why many western people don’t remove their shoes when they enter their house. They think the house gets dirty when you walk in there with your shoes and wonder why some people don’t mind that.

Etiquette of Removing Shoes

If you come on a trip to Japan, you may have to remove your shoes at many places. For example, Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, castles, folk house museums, Japanese restaurants, ryokan, and so on. When you book a Japanese cultural experience such as wearing kimono, seeing a tea ceremony, or creating calligraphy, you may also have to take off your shoes. Most Japanese cultural activities are held in a Japanese atmosphere, which often includes a tatami room. And by default, wearing shoes (or slippers) is never an option on tatami.

Many first-time Japan visitors wonder where the right location to take of their shoes is. If you visit temples in other Asian countries, after taking off your shoes it is OK to walk on the soil. But this is not the case in Japan. You are never supposed to walk on soil without shoes because your soles will get dirty which means that the floor will get dirty as well. This means that after taking off your shoes, you have to step inside directly from your loosened shoes. It may be difficult to know exactly where.

Wooden Floor Area

If you see a place that is a little higher than the soil, that means that it is already a part of ‘inside’. Meaning, you should not touch it with your shoes. So please be careful if you see a slotted wooden floor area like the one you can see in the picture above. This is called a ‘sunoko’, and it is considered a part of the inside of the house, so you should not take off your shoes there. If you make a mistake, the staff of the facilities may shout at you. It means this rule is very important in Japan.

You can leave your shoes at the entrance before stepping in unless there is a shoebox provided, in that case, you should put your shoes in the shoebox. Leaving your shoes before the entrance, the correct way to do this is to flip the direction of the shoes so that the toes point toward the outside. If you do this, it will mean that you can put your shoes on easily and start walking immediately upon leaving the building. When you are an important guest, the staff may change the direction of your shoes for you, but if you, for example, visit people at home it is a nice gesture to do this yourself.

Indoor Slippers

At the entrance of ryokan or a Japanese restaurant, they may prepare slippers for you. This is another thing that confuses many first-timers in Japan. But rest assured, these are special indoor slippers that are not supposed to touch any ground outside of the ryokan or restaurant. They are for walking along the corridors but are to be removed before stepping on tatami in your hotel room or restaurant private room.

And there there is a special mention for toilet slippers. As the name already says, this is a special set of slippers for the toilet. If these slippers are present in a toilet space, make sure to change into them. And even more important, never ever come out of the toilet and forget to remove these slippers. Obviously, they are dirty and many Japanese people will get a little heart attack if they see them anywhere outside of the toilet space.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can share cultural information. They can tell you about etiquette surrounding taking your shoes off so that you don’t have to worry about making mistakes. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Shinto Gods and Emperor Jimmu

If you look at the family tree of the Japanese Imperial Family, you will see that the first 3 generations are actually Shinto gods. Emperor Jimmu descended from the son and daughter of two different sea-dragon gods, and he actually only received his title as the Emperor of Japan 1000 years after he died. He was born in Kyushu and set out to conquer lands in Honshu for the gods.

The emperor marched to Yamato (what is now Kansai) which had plenty of fertile lands and fought to displace the ruler in that region at the time, Naga-Sune-Hiko. Jimmu and his army didn’t succeed the first time. He then decided to retreat and attack Yamato from the other side by marching through what are now the Wakayama and Mie prefectures. With some celestial help, Emperor Jimmu managed to defeat the ruler of Yamato and started his own peaceful ruling period that lasted for 76 years.

The Imperial Family Line

After Emperor Jimmu, there was a succession of sons that inherited the title from their fathers, but very little is known about most of them until Emperor Sujin who was on the throne from 97 BC until 30 BC according to some literature. Emperor Sujin was the 10th in line, and while his existence has not been 100% confirmed, some historians think he is the first Emperor of Japan that existed for sure. This Emperor was supposedly the first who tried to have a more serious administration in the country by having a census and improving tax systems.

The 12th Emperor’s existence is still debatable, but he is said to have had many children, some say it could have been as many as 80. Some Emperors that came after him didn’t have any children, like the 22nd Emperor. In this case, the Emperor would name sons or grandsons of brothers or uncles as heirs so the lineage would continue. It was only from the 29th Emperor, though, that historians agree that they actually existed.

Japanese Emperors During Shogunates

From the moment Japan became more organized in the 6th century, the Imperial Family and court have played an important role in Japanese politics. It is important to remember that the role of the Imperial Family itself has always been merely symbolic albeit important. The real political power, however, was always in the hands of a different family. During the Heian period, it was the Fujiwara Clan that had the real power, and after that, it was the Taira clan.

Members of the Fujiwara clan intermarried with the Imperial Family often to keep the bonds strong. The people in power have always upheld the notion that the regular people have to respect the authority of the Imperial Family who descended from Shinto gods, and do whatever was required to keep them happy. Of course, it was the interests of the clan in power that was mainly served by this loyalty of the people to the Imperial Family.

The Kamakura Period

From the 12th century, military governments came to power in Japan. It started when the Taira clan was defeated by the Minamoto clan who then seized power as shogun and moved the political capital from Kyoto to Kamakura (near Tokyo). The Imperial Family stayed in Kyoto, and any power the court had, became symbolic.

When the Minamoto’s were defeated by the Ashikaga clan, the power shifted back again to Kyoto but it was the warlords who kept total control over Japan’s politics. A period of unrest started with the law of the sword above anything else. This violent period only ended when the Tokugawa clan established a new shogunate in Edo in the early 17th century. So once again, the balance of power shifted to the eastern part of Honshu away from Kyoto.

During the previous shogunates, the Imperial Family and the court lost some of their power compared to before. At those times, the attention was strongly focused on the warlords and their samurai. During the Edo period, the Imperial court in Kyoto performed mainly religious duties that were important to the shogun in Edo. But it wasn’t until the end of the Tokugawa rule in the mid-19th century that the Imperial Family made a good come-back.

Emperor Meiji

As the name implies, the Meiji Restoration was a time during which the Emperor was restored to his former glory. It was also the time from which the name of a period became the posthumous name of the Emperor who reigned at that time. People needed a national identity and using the Imperial Family to establish that was a handy move for the people in power at that time.

It was a time of rapid modernization after a long period of relative peace, calm, and little modern development. Not everyone agreed with the decision to let the foreigners in and get rid of the old in favor of the new. That is why it was important to establish the new power swift and strong. It is also very convenient to have the ability to mobilize large numbers of people under the ‘will of the Emperor’.

Japan started branching out quickly to catch up on the West and protect its interests in the region and modernized its industries very fast. It was not Emperor Meiji himself who ruled, but the group of advisors around him who had their own agenda. Emperor Meiji himself didn’t truly mingle in politics, he was more occupied with writing poetry in waka or haiku format.

The Emperor had 15 children, but unfortunately, many of them died soon after birth. Because the Imperial line is the result of a lot of inbreeding, Emperor Meiji had many genetic issues that were also passed onto his offspring.

Emperor Taisho

Emperor Taisho was Emperor Meiji’s 5th child and the first one to survive into adulthood. He became Emperor in 1912 and was on the throne until his death in 1926. Just like his father, Emperor Taisho had some genetic defects. Moreover, he suffered from a bad bout of meningitis as a child which left him with some mental and physical defects. He was often staying at one of the Imperial Villas to spare his health. He wasn’t able to finish middle school. Emperor Taisho did, however, have an aptitude for languages and he spoke a bit of Chinese, French, and Korean.

He was married to a daughter of the Fujiwara clan who had great influence in Japanese politics for a long time at age 15, and they had 4 sons together. At the beginning of the 20th century, the military in Japan grew ever stronger. This meant that Emperor Taisho had to perform some military ceremonial duties before he became an Emperor. He even traveled to Korea around this time, being the first heir to the throne to ever leave Japan.

When he became Emperor in 1912, he was still undertaking official duties. In the years after his enthronement, however, his mental condition didn’t improve and people started making fun of him. His oldest son, the later Emperor Showa, took over his duties from 1921. Steadily, the Diet (Japanese parliament) became more powerful as there was no strong Emperor. Emperor Taisho died in 1926, which is when the longest-reigning Japanese Emperor officially took the throne.

Emperor Showa Pre-War

The Showa era, which is when Emperor Showa was on the throne for 62 years. Emperor Showa is quite known in the West, under his living name of Hirohito. Emperor Showa was the first Emperor to make state visits to Europe and aged only 18 he became the country’s regent. When he took the throne, Japan was in tumultuous times financially and politically. Although he did give the OK for several attacks on China in the 1930s, Emperor Showa later said that the chiefs of the navy and army and with the prime minister hadn’t been truthful in their predictions of peace after attacking China.

Emperor Showa did actively mingle in some war business during WW2 and seemed to stimulate Japanese war efforts. Experts don’t agree on whether he was correctly briefed on Japan’s failure from 1942 onwards. Still, some say that he knew exactly what was going on and others say that he didn’t get truthful information from outside and thus couldn’t help not stepping down on time.

No Consensus

Especially from 1944, the situation for Japan became dire, but almost nobody (including the Emperor) wanted to surrender. It was not until the Soviets declared war on Japan in August that Emperor Showa decided that it was time to surrender. The radio broadcast that followed was a very special moment in history. This was the first time that most of the Japanese people heard the voice of their Emperor.

There is no consensus about whether Emperor Showa was directly responsible for his unwillingness to surrender even when things looked very dire for Japan. Some say that he was nothing but a powerless figurehead being manipulated by other people. After the war, the Americans stripped the Emperor of his divinity. They did, however, keep it vague on purpose in order to use the Emperor in order to get the Japanese people behind their plans.

Emperor Showa Post-War

After the war, Emperor Showa made a big effort to build up Japan’s diplomatic image again. He succeeded mainly in the US, but it proved a bit more difficult in Europe where some of his official visits were marked by protests. The remaining long period of his reign was characterized by great economic growth and general prosperity for Japan. This felt like a well-deserved break after the hard years of the war and the rebuilding that followed.

Emperor Showa’s stance on the Yasukuni Shrine showed some repentance of what happened during the war. He famously boycotted the shrine ever since the main priest enshrined the souls of war criminals there. His son Emperor Akihito continued this boycott. Emperor Showa died in 1989 and was succeeded by his son in 1990.

Emperor Akihito & Empress Michiko

Emperor Emeritus Akihito was born in 1933 as the 5th child and first son of Emperor Showa. Unlike the Emperors that came before him, he did not become an army officer at the request of his father. He was enthroned at age 56 and wanted to be a different kind of Emperor. In contrast to all the ones before him, as he sought to be closer to the people. He broke with tradition more often during his life. For starters, his marriage was not met by the approval of his mother.

His wife Michiko was a commoner and had a Roman Catholic background to make matters worse. Conservative groups were also not happy with the marriage. Emperor Akihito, on the other hand, felt strongly about Michiko and decided to pursue her anyway. Michiko and her children had a difficult time with their mother-in-law and grandma, which made their life difficult at times.

Break From Tradition

Emperor Akihito made two more notable trips away from tradition. First, he declared that he feels a kinship with Koreans in 2001. The Imperial Family line is said to have descended partly from Korean lines, a theory that doesn’t please the conservative groups in Japan. And then in 2011, just after the disaster happened in Tohoku the Emperor and his wife visited victims of the disaster. The victims lived in temporary housing, and the Emperor and Empress wanted to encourage them and make them feel better. This is a rare event in itself, and they even kneeled to see eye to eye with the victims. This, again, has angered some conservative groups.

The last time he made an obvious break with tradition happened in 2019 when he abdicated the throne. An abdication hadn’t happened for the last 200 years. Many conservatives would have preferred him to reign until his death. But the Emperor has had enough and wanted to live out his final days in peace and quiet. His son and current Emperor Naruhito took over the throne.

Current Emperor Naruhito

On May 1st, 2019 people celebrated the start of a new year and a new era, the Reiwa era. Besides the regular (Western) calendar, in Japan, they also keep tabs of the time with a Japanese calendar. Each time a new Emperor ascends the throne, a new era starts. The name of the era is the same name as the Emperor will receive after he dies.

The names tend to have a beautiful meaning, and the word Reiwa literally means ‘peaceful harmony’. There have been some discussions about the Chinese characters’ interpretation, though. Emperor Naruhito was born in 1960 and had a relatively normal childhood. Being a baseball-fan and finishing a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in the subject of history his youth was like many others. He also did a homestay in Australia and studied English at Oxford. He met many European royalty members and became friendly with them.

A Difficult Time

Just like his father, Emperor Naruhito fell in love with a common girl. He met Masako during a social event that she attended as a student, and immediately fell for her. She was interested in him too, but the Imperial Household Agency did not approve which complicated things. The then still crown prince had to pursue her and ask her several times before she agreed to marry him.

Life didn’t become easy for both of them after marriage, as the pressure was on to produce an heir for the throne. While polygamy was normal in the Imperial Family until the Taisho period in order to have the possibility of many heirs, from the Showa period this system was abolished. After WW2 the Americans also wanted to make the Imperial Family a lot smaller than it used to be by having female members lose their status as a member of the Imperial Family.

Empress Masako

Masako wasn’t doing well mentally because of the pressure, and conceiving was difficult. After a long road, they finally had a daughter in 2001, Princess Aiko, but because she was a girl the succession issue still was not solved. The law states that only a boy can succeed the throne in Japan, and there were talks of changing this law. Of course, the conservatives did not like this idea, and everyone was mainly relieved when a nephew was born in 2006 who will now succeed the throne.

This website announces any public duties that the Emperor and his wife may undertake.

Your Japan Tour

There are many places you can visit during your trip to Japan that are related to the Imperial Family; there are the famous Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace in Tokyo, but Kyoto also has many old palaces, temples, and shrines that have a connection with the Japanese royals.

As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including guides who can tell you all you want to know about the Imperial Family of Japan. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Origins of Koi Fish

While koi fish are always associated with Japan, the carp actually originated in China and is not native to Japan. The original carp is dark brown/black, you can still see this type of carp everywhere today. This carp was brought to Japan by the Chinese over 2000 years ago. Since then, it was the Japanese that started breeding these carp with regards to their color from around 1800. This is how new patterns slowly started to emerge.

It was the rice farmers who were keeping koi in their rice fields that did this by breeding the individuals that had naturally occurring mutations. The first type of new coloring was a carp with a red belly, and from here other types were newly ‘created‘.

White carp with red spots eventually became the most popular subtype. The pinnacle of great breeding is the completely white fish with a round red dot in the middle of its forehead. Its pattern is making it look like the Japanese flag! This type is called Tancho after the crane that has a red spot on its head, and it can cost tens of thousands of dollars. It can cost even more in the rare cases when the fish turns out perfect, meaning it doesn’t have any other colors or spots beside the red dot. Additionally, the dot has to be at a perfect location on top of the head.

Life of a Koi Carp

The optimal breeding temperature for koi carps is when the water temperature is around 20 degrees Celcius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). This means that koi will usually spawn in May or June. At the beginning of life, things are hard in natural circumstances. When they mate, koi fish also eat their freshly hatched young. This is why if they are being bred, the breeder will remove adult fish once the eggs have been fertilized.

If a young fish makes it through the first few months, they usually grow up to around 90 centimeters. This only happens if the circumstances are good. This means that they have enough space, food, and favorable temperatures. Koi carps are not active throughout the year, as they go into a hibernation of sorts during wintertime. They will usually look for a quiet, safe place under a bridge or

It is not surprising that the koi fish became a symbol of longevity, as the oldest carp on record became a whopping 226 years old. This achievement is claimed by a fish called Hanako, who lived until 1977. This was quite an abnormality though, as most koi live until around age 35, which is still quite old for a fish. You can’t really tell how old a koi fish is by just looking at it. Actually, the fish’ age is only determinable by microscope if you look at growth marks on the scales.

Color Patterns

There are hundreds of different koi varieties, some of the more common ones are the Asagi koi (silver color with a net pattern with red spots) and Kohaku koi (white and red patterning). Showa koi (similar to Kohaku koi with additional black spots), butterfly koi (with beautiful long fins), and the famous Tancho (the fish with a red dot on their head) are also popular.

The coloring of the fish stands for different symbolism, which is an important feature of koi fish in Japan. Gold-colored koi are obviously associated with wealth. Silver-colored fish are associated with business success, blue carps bring peace and quiet. The colorful koi of the Asagi type that are blue, red, and grey stand for positivity.

Koi Fish in Japan

So where do you need to go to see the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat in Japan? Luckily, this is very easy as larger temples and shrines often have koi ponds on their grounds. There are also many Japanese landscape gardens all over the country that more often than not boast an impressive koi pond. Even some Japanese-style hotels and ryokan have gardens that contain koi ponds. Here are some of the best spots to see koi ponds in Tokyo;

• Happo-en in Shirokanedai
• Gajoen in Meguro
• Sensoji temple in Asakusa
• Yasukuni Shrine in Kudanshita
• Ikedayama Park in Gotanda

Beautiful Shimabara

Another special place to see koi fish would be Shimabara near Nagasaki. This town is located in Kyushu, which means it is a bit far away from Tokyo. Kyoto is closer, but it will still be a 5-hour+ trip to get there meaning this is a place to visit if you are already going to Kyushu anyway. If you make it there, it will be a fantastic place for koi lovers and those who like spots of interest in general.

Shimabara is also called a ‘City of Water’ because there are over 60 spots in the city where water flows from natural springs. It then flows into small ponds and narrow waterways on the side of the street. And you guessed it, there are many koi fish swimming in these waters all over the city. It is an especially nice place to visit in the warmer summer months when you can enjoy a drink in a shaded place surrounded by water and fish to cool you down.

If you want to go one step further and visit a koi farm, it is not easy to arrange it by yourself unless you have connections or speak Japanese. If you need help with arranging a koi farm visit, please contact us for more information.

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As seasoned Japan experts, we can help you create your perfect Japan tour including destinations where you can see koi fish and custom-built tours that include a visit to a koi farm. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Structure of Tanka Poetry

Words that express the poet’s feelings or the seasonal conditions are set into a 5-7-5-7-7 syllabic structure. As there are no ‘season words’ required like they are with Haiku, Tanka allows more freedom of subject matter.

Tokai no – kojima no iso no – shirasuna ni – Ware nakinurete – kani to tawamuru. On the white sand of a rocky beach on a small island off the Tokai coast, Soaked in tears, I play with a crab.”

Ishikawa Takuboku

This is a poem by Ishikawa Takuboku, an example from the Meiji period – 1886-1912 -. If you read it aloud, you will hear the 5-7-5-7-7 rhythm.

The pleasing resonance of its words is one of the reasons Japanese have long cherished Tanka poetry.

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If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour. We can include expert guides who can add to your holiday with their extensive knowledge on topics such as Japanese poetry, arts, and culture. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

The day that is now Culture Day used to be commemorated for another reason. It was a holiday in honor of Emperor Meiji’s birthday. It started in 1868 but was discontinued in 1912 when the Emperor died. Then, in 1927, it became a holiday again known as Meiji-setsu. What can you expect to see when you are in Japan during Culture Day on November 3rd?

Honoring the Emperor

In Japan, honoring Imperial birthdays is a relatively new tradition. Emperor Meiji was the first emperor to reclaim the power and dignity of the Imperial family. In 1868, the shogun government was abolished, allowing Japan to begin to advance into the modern world. So the meaning of the celebration changed in 1946, with the creation of the post-war constitution.

Culture day – Bunka no hi

Culture Day, otherwise known as Bunka no Hi, is a day to honor traditional Japanese culture. On this day, we honor the country’s rich culture, education, and arts. Exhibits, parades, shows, and festivals erupt in numerous cities, with large crowds in attendance. November 3 is Culture Day, and it has been a national holiday since 1948.

Culture Day Nowadays

On Culture Day, festivals are held around the country, celebrating traditional Japanese art. There is also a long parade through the city of Hakone where people wear traditional clothing from the Edo era. At the Meiji Shrine (which is named in honor of Emperor Meiji) there are various martial arts demonstrations given throughout the day.

The Order of Culture Awards are held in Tokyo’s Imperial Palace and are typically presented by the Emperor to people who make outstanding contributions to Japanese culture

Jidai matsuri in Asakusa

The parades and festivals during Culture Day are a sight to behold. The Tokyo Jidai Matsuri, or ‘Festival of Ages’, is celebrated near the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo, and it is a big draw for locals and visitors alike. People dress up in various period costumes (usually the Edo period). Samurai warriors, geisha, daimyos, and the like can be seen parading the streets of the city.

Culture Day is statistically one of the clearest days of the year. Between 1965 and 1996, there have only been three years with rain occurring in Tokyo on Culture Day. It’s a great day to delve into the rich history and culture of Japan as most museums in Tokyo and across the rest of the country are open for free on Culture Day.

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If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour. We can include expert guides who can add to your holiday with their extensive knowledge of Japanese culture and they know just where to go on a national holiday for the best experience. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

There are different styles of hakama. The type worn by martial artists today is called the joba hakama, the garment is similar to pants and it is very comfortable for walking. Another type of hakama that is more like a skirt, called the lantern hakama, was worn on visits to the shogun or Emperor.

Symbolic Meaning

The 7 folds in the hakama (5 in the front, 2 in the back) are said to have the following symbolic meanings:

• Yuki = courage, valor, bravery
• Jin = humanity, charity, benevolence
• Gi = justice, righteousness, integrity
• Rei = etiquette, courtesy, civility (also means bow/obeisance)
• Makoto = sincerity, honesty, reality
• Chugi = loyalty, fidelity, devotion
• Meiyo = honor, credit, glory; also reputation, dignity, prestige

For the Zen Tradition:

• Land
• Water
• Fire
• Wind
• Empty
• Yin
• Yang

Wearing Hakama

Hakama can be worn over any type of kimono except for the yukata, the colorful summer kimono. The garment used to be a required part of men’s wear. In modern times men only still wear hakama for very formal occasions such as tea ceremonies, weddings, and funerals. Hakama are also regularly worn by practitioners of a variety of martial arts, such as Karate, Kendo, Iaido, Taido, Aikido, Ryu-te, and Kyūdō.

Women rarely wear hakama except at graduation ceremonies and for traditional Japanese sports such as Kyūdō, Aikido, and Kendo. The most iconic image of women in hakama is the Miko shrine maiden who assists in the maintenance and ceremonies of Shinto shrines. And because the Hakama was originally a battle uniform for Samurai, it has great mobility and it is exceptionally functional in comparison with kimono.

The hakama represents the values of the samurai, therefore the person wearing one should honor these values. Kimono is traditional Japanese clothing, while Hakama represents the honorary status of samurai. If you visit Japan it is recommended to have the experience of wearing a hakama.

Your Japan Tour

If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour, including expert guides who can add to your holiday with their extensive knowledge on topics such as traditional Japanese clothing, history, and culture. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

The Shinto Religion

Shinto places great value on the virtues of purity and honesty, but as a faith, Shinto has no dogma, doctrine, or founder. Its origins can be seen in the relationship between the ancient Japanese and the power they found in the natural world. It is a relationship that continues to this day, defined by a great reverence for the force of nature and gratitude for its generosity. Only by receiving the blessings of nature and ancestors and accepting their power, can a harmonious connection be maintained with the world around. That is the basis of Shinto.

How to Pray at a Shinto Shrine : Preparation

To pray properly, and show respect in a Shinto shrine, it is necessary to follow a ritual that will be explained below:

1- The entrance of the Jinja is generally a door called ‘Torii’. It is said to be the dimensional door that divides the physical world from the spiritual world. Therefore, before crossing the Torii a bow must be made in the direction of the sanctuary and then cross the door.

2 – In the Jinja, you must enter on the left and exit on the right, you should not walk through the middle because it is believed to be where the kami that inhabit the sanctuary travel.

3- The Jinja are sacred places, so, first we have to clean ourselves at the source of purification. This is a practice to clean your heart and soul before connecting with the kami. In the fountains there are wooden or metal ladles called hishaku, with which this ritual is carried out. They are very easy to identify since they have a fairly long handle to be able to easily drink water when doing the ritual.

First, you take Hishaku, fill it with water to the top, and proceed to wash your left hand. Then hold the hishaku with your clean left hand and washes your right hand. Again, the hishaku is held with the right hand and the mouth is washed a little with water. This water is poured into the left hand. Finally, the remaining water is emptied into the tube of the hishaku to clean the instrument. It is then put it back in its place.

The Praying

4- Upon arriving at the oratory where the prayer will be held, an offering is made to the sanctuary with a coin. It is recommended that it be a 5 yen coin because its Japanese sound is the same as that of ‘Luck’. The Japanese word would be ‘Go-en’. If there is a bell in the sanctuary it should be shaken to warn the kami that the enclosure has been reached.

5- Two deep bows are made.

6- Both hands are aligned, with the right hand slightly lower.

7- Clap twice.

8- Pray.

9- Then there is a deep final bow.

10- Upon leaving the Jinja, after having crossed the Torii, the gaze must be directed back to the sanctuary and a bow is executed. The latter is to thank the kami for having received and heard the visitor.

Your Japan Tour

If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour. We can include expert guides with extensive knowledge on topics such as Japanese religions, history, and culture. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Video: How to pray at a Shinto shrine in Japan