� Architecture
The natives believe that the Japanese kami (gods) inhabit all natural phenomena such as volcanoes and rocks; these sacred places were thus marked with only a shimenawa (special plaited rope) and gohei (strips of white paper) � Gardens
The composition of Japanese gardens is given such meticulous planning that even the last pebble is granted attention. There is not a single grass, flower, or water fountain out of place. � Ikebana
Rikka ('standing' flowers), nageire ('throwing-in'), shokai ('living' flowers) and moribana ('heaped' flowers) are the different types of flower arrangements found in the Land of the Rising Sun. |
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� Religion
Japan has a different view of religion than most other countries. Their two main religions, Shintoism and Buddhism, are said to coexist side by side. � Tea Ceremony
In 700 AD, tea was drunk to promote alertness. Chanoyu, sado, or 'the way of the tea' dates back to the Nara period and was used by meditating Buddhist monks. |