Month: June 2023
Kyoto Shimbun: a chronicle of tradition and modernism
Take a look inside the pages and the process of the Kyoto Shimbun.
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Traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto
Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of Kyoto, the traditional tea ceremony holds a revered place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Travelers can immerse themselves in the essence of Japanese culture as they are transported to a realm of serenity and harmony. The tea ceremony in Kyoto is regarded as an art form, […]
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Unveiling the serene majesty of Ryōzen Kannon
In the heart of Kyoto, a serene sanctuary silently stands, captivating travelers with its ethereal presence. The majestic Ryōzen Kannon is a renowned Buddhist temple that exudes tranquility and reverence. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Higashiyama mountains, this hidden gem invites visitors to dive into a world of spiritual solace and contemplation. Approached […]
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SJMC Japan Team presents work on Friday
Now that all members of the SJMC Japan Team have returned home to Texas safely, they are gearing up for final presentation day, and you’re invited! Students will share their mini-documentaries, highlights of the stories they wrote and insights about what the SJMC Japan program meant to them starting at 10 a.m. Friday, June 30, […]
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A “whisk”-ful experience in Kyoto
In Japanese, chanoyu means “hot water for tea.” English speakers have decided to translate the expression to “tea ceremony,” but — as tea masters will inform you— chanoyu is simply one of life’s pleasures. The history of tea is long— just like traditional bookbinding— so if you’re curious for more details, read this brief article. But […]
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Shrines and temples: unraveling the sacred spaces of Shintoism and Buddhism
In the land of the rising sun, where ancient traditions harmoniously blend with modernity, two major religious practices have long played a significant role in shaping Japanese culture and spirituality: Shintoism and Buddhism. While distinct in their beliefs and practices, these two religions have coexisted side by side for centuries, influencing each other and creating […]
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Exploring the vibrant tapestry of Tokyo’s hidden gems: an insider’s perspective on Time Out Tokyo
Take a look inside the pages – and the offices – of Time Out Tokyo.
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Symbolic gateways to Japan’s rich cultural heritage
Stepping into the sacred grounds of Japan’s Shinto shrines, visitors are greeted by a mesmerizing sight—vibrant vermilion torii gates that stand tall, forming a pathway between the mundane and the divine. These striking structures, steeped in history and cultural significance, serve as gateways to sacred spaces and have become iconic symbols of Japan’s spiritual and […]
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Forget the sushi, we’re going to McDonald’s
When traveling overseas, the last place one might think about eating at is McDonald’s. Sure, they have burgers, nuggets and fries like in the United States, but there are quite a few notable differences. The restaurant Unlike the restaurants in the United States, the ones in Kyoto don’t have drive-thrus. In addition, most people opt […]
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The significance of Japanese cranes – origami and otherwise
Visitors to some popular destinations in Kyoto may wonder: what’s with all the cranes? Known as the “tsuru,” the crane’s historical and cultural significance can be traced back to ancient times. It has deep roots in Japanese folklore, art and tradition. In Japanese mythology, cranes mate for life and are believed to live for 1,000 […]
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