"もったいない" What a Waste!
The idea of "mottainai" is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and reflects the belief that resources should be valued and waste avoided. At Shotengai, we strive to uphold this ethos by promoting sustainable products and minimizing waste wherever possible.
Healthy & Safe
Finding allergy-friendly options can be challenging. Fortunately, our Shotengai box provides tasty alternatives that you can safely enjoy!
What is Geta? Unveiling the Timeless Appeal of Japan's Traditional Wooden Sandals
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Geta has woven itself into the fabric of Japanese culture. Its evolution from a practical solution for muddy terrain to a symbol of cultural identity showcases the adaptability and timelessness of this traditional footwear. Geta remains a captivating embodiment of Japanese craftsmanship and heritage, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and culture.
Everything You Need Know About Omamori: Japan's Charms of Protection and Blessings
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Omamori are traditional Japanese amulets or talismans, usually sold at Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. They are made of silk or cloth and contain prayers, blessings, or wishes inside.
What is Seifuku? Everything You Need to Know About School Uniforms in Japan
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Seifuku holds a distinctive place in Japanese culture, symbolizing tradition, discipline, and unity among students. Beyond its practical purpose, it has become an iconic representation of Japanese society, influencing fashion trends and appearing in popular media.
The World of Japanese Snacks (III): An Indulgence of Joy and Nostalgia
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Japanese snacks have captured the hearts of people around the world through their captivating flavors, meticulous craftsmanship, preservation of tradition, and commitment to spreading joy. Whether you're exploring the intricate packaging designs or savoring the diverse range of tastes, each bite is an invitation to immerse yourself in a world of delight and happiness.
The World of Japanese Snacks (II): An Indulgence of Joy and Nostalgia
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Japanese food culture is a testament to the country's deep-rooted traditions and appreciation for simplicity and hospitality. It is a culinary journey that goes beyond taste, enchanting diners with its aesthetics and cultural significance.
The Best Souvenirs in Japan: The Ultimate List of What to Buy in Japan
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Japan offers a wealth of unique and fascinating products that make great souvenirs or gifts. Whether you're interested in ceramics, beauty products, snacks, stationery, or fashion, Japan has something for everyone.
Shinise: A Japanese Long-Established Business
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"Shinise" refers to longstanding businesses that have preserved their traditions and craftsmanship for generations. Today, we will delve into the essence of Shinise and explore why they hold a special place in Japanese culture.
Kintsugi: An Art of Repair
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Kintsugi is a Japanese art form of repair. It’s also a philosophy that emphasizes the value of imperfection and the beauty of flaws. It is based on the idea that something that has been broken can be transformed into something beautiful if it is repaired with care and attention.
Sanrio: The Most Kawaii Brand
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Sanrio was founded in 1960 by Shintaro Tsuji, and has since become an iconic brand known for its cute and charming designs. Its colorful and imaginative designs have brought joy and happiness to millions of people around the world.
Otaku Culture: A Culture of Nijigen
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Otaku culture is a subculture that originated in Japan and is characterized by an intense passion for various forms of popular entertainment. The term "otaku" is often used to describe individuals who are obsessive fans of these types of media.
Miko: The Shrine Maiden
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Miko are the shrine maidens with a deep understanding of Shinto tradition and culture. They have mastery of the skills and discipline necessary to carry out their duties with grace and precision.
Mitaka no Mori Jiburi Bijutsukan: The Ghibli Museum
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The Ghibli Museum is a magical place that captures the spirit and creativity of Studio Ghibli's films. It showcases original artwork, sketches, storyboards, and props of many Ghibli films.
"もったいない" What a Waste!
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The idea of "mottainai" is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, and reflects the belief that resources should be valued and waste avoided. At Shotengai, we strive to uphold this philosophy by promoting sustainable products and minimizing waste wherever possible.
Jujutsu: Unarmed Japanese Martial Art
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Jujutsu is a Japanese martial art. It literally means "the art of softness" or "the gentle technique". The word jujutsu is a versatile martial art that can be adapted to different situations and skill levels.
Kyudo: The Japanese Martial Art of Archery
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Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art of archery that has been practiced for centuries. It is the oldest of the martial arts still practiced today and is considered a spiritual practice as well as a physical one. The practice teaches patience, focus, and humility, and is said to bring about a sense of inner peace.
Wagakki (I): Japanese Traditional Instruments
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Wagakki refers to the traditional Japanese musical instruments. They include a variety of instruments, such as string, wind, and percussion. They are still played today in traditional concerts, recitals, festivals, and other events.
Japanese Traditional Music (I): Hogaku
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Japanese pop music develops from traditional music. Japan has rich and splendid traditional music that stretches back centuries. In Japanese, traditional music is known as “hogaku, normally referring to music from the 17th to the mid-19th centuries.
Japanese Scenery (IV): Ueno Park
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Ueno Koen (Ueno Park) is a large park in central Tokyo, covering an area of about 53,000 square meters. Established in 1873, Ueno Park was the first park in Japan. Its lovely cherry blossoms attract millions of visitors annually, making it one of the most popular city parks in Japan.
Nihon Teien: The Aesthetic Japanese Garden
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Nihon Teien is traditional Japanese landscaped gardens that incorporate Japanese aesthetic and philosophical ideas, the designers of which avoid artificial decorations and highlight natural landscapes. It is a refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life to experience Zen.
Tatami: The Traditional Japanese Mat
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Tatami is a traditional style of flooring that has been around for 1,300 years in Japan. It is an indispensable part of a washitsu (Japanese-style room). The Japanese have spent a lot of time on these beautiful comfortable traditional mats.
Japanese Arts (VI): Ukiyo-e
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The Great Wave off Kanagawa is a painting that is famous among Japanese art. It is a ukiyo-e created by Katsushika Hokusai. Ukiyo-e is a Japanese art form that originated in the Edo period with a variety of contents, including historical stories, scenery, folk tales, and portraits.
Sencha: The Most Popular Japanese Green Tea
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Many Japanese people regard green tea as a the main type of tea. However, there are many subcategories of green tea. Sencha is a whole-leaf green tea that can be drunk hot or cold. It is the most popular tea in Japan. This blog post examines many types of green tea, including sencha.
Japanese Arts (V): Kyogen
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Kyogen is one of the classical forms of theater in Japan. It is comic relief between two Noh plays (more serious in nature) in the same program. Kyogen plays are very short, with few costumes and props. They are normally performed by 2-3 actors. Though they aim at amusing the audience, there are also Kyogen that tell sad stories.
Japanese Arts (IV): Noh
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Noh is the one of oldest performing arts in the world. It is a Japanese theatrical performance that combines dance, drama, music, and poetry. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Stories of Noh are based on traditional literature, depicting both real and legendary events.
Ninja: The Japanese Agent
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The stereotype of a ninja is a stealthy man or woman dressed in black and masked. They are believed to move without leaving a trace and have the magical ability to kill people swiftly. They do have a bunch of skills but they are just ordinary humans. Ninjas were professional agents in feudal Japan who could serve as spies, infiltrators, and assassins.
Bushido: The Way of Samurai
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The Japanese samurai were not ruthless beasts. Rather, they contributed to Japanese culture, promoting arts such as Buddhism, calligraphy, painting, tea ceremony, and flower arrangement. They valued their internal qualities as much as their martial arts. They followed a code of conduct known as "bushido" to preserve their honor.
Samurai: The Japanese Warrior
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In Japanese, samurai literally means "the one who serves." From the 12th century, they were a hereditary military nobility with high prestige and privileges. They were employed by the feudal landowners. They valued virtue as much as martial arts. A samurai who lost his honor might choose to commit suicide.
Hanami: Japanese Flower Viewing
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Japan is home to thousands of sakura (cherry blossom) trees. Sakura is one of the most prominent images in Japanese culture. Hanami (flower viewing) has thus become an indispensable activity for Japanese people in spring. Under the beautiful sakura trees, the Japanese can have a pleasant time with families and friends.
Sakura: Japan's Unofficial National Flower
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From paintings to articles, from decorations to food, not to mention modern manga and cartoons, cherry blossoms can be seen everywhere. Sakura is the unofficial national flower in Japan. As a symbol unseparated from Japan, it is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history, affecting art, literature, and the spirit of the Yamato people.
Hinamatsuri: Japan's Girls' Day
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Hinamatsuri is a Shinto festival on March 3 every year. It is Girls' Day to celebrate the health and happiness of girls. It's also known as Doll's Day because dolls are an indispensable part of this festival. On this day, Japanese families with daughters will display Hina Ningyo (decorated dolls) on an altar covered with a dankake (red carpet).
Kodomo no Hi: Japan's Children’s Day
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In Japan, Children’s Day is called Kodomo no hi and is celebrated on the 5th of May. It is a traditional holiday established to honor the individuality of children and celebrate their happiness. Carp-shaped flags, samurai armors, and foyers are recognizable symbols of it.
Kodo: Japanese Art of Incense
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Kodo is one of the three classical Japanese arts of refinement. It is an art of Japanese incense. The essence of Kodo is experiencing Zen rather than smelling the fragrance. Kodo works on the spiritual world and provides a feeling of peace and calm.
Yokai (IV): Japanese Supernatural Creatures
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In Japanese, Yokai is a broad and vague term that covers almost all monsters, supernatural beings, ghosts, gods, possessed spirits, urban legends, and other strange phenomena. If you are a fan of Japanese games, mangas, and animes, you will not be unfamiliar with them.
Onsen: Japanese Bathing Culture
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When you picture Japan, it's hard not to think of the classic images, such as cherry blossoms, geishas, and Mount Fuji. However, one of the biggest but lesser-known Japanese cultures is the Onsen culture (bathing in hot springs). Japan is located along the "Ring of Fire" and is home to 10% of the world's active volcanoes, making it full of geothermal activity.
Yokai (III): Japanese Supernatural Creatures
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In Japanese, Yokai is a broad and vague term that covers almost all monsters, supernatural beings, ghosts, gods, possessed spirits, urban legends, and other strange phenomena. If you have played Onmyoji, watched the anime Natsume Yojimbo, or watched the Jeep Force movie, you will not be unfamiliar with them.
Yokai (II): Japanese Supernatural Creatures
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Yokai is a broad and vague term that covers almost all monsters, supernatural beings, ghosts, gods, possessed spirits, urban legends, and other strange phenomena. If you are a fan of Japanese anime, comics, and games, you'll be no stranger to Japanese Yokai. Here are some of the most famous Yokai!
