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Japanese wedding ceremonies are typically Shinto; however, the ceremony may be based on Buddhist or Christian traditions and beliefs. Traditional Japanese wedding ceremonies involve rituals specific to the Japanese culture, although many modern Japanese wedding ceremonies involve typically Western traditions such as the exchanging of rings and the bride and groom holding a wedding reception at a dining hall with a celebration and speeches.
Japanese tea ceremony, or the way of tea, is an ancient tradition. Japanese tea sets are used in these ceremonies, which place greater emphasis on the preparation and presentation of green tea, or matcha, than its actual consumption. In Japanese, the performance of the tea ceremony is called otemae. A Japanese tea set is called chadogu, and the person using the set is called a teishu. This 9th century ceremony draws its spiritual significance from Buddhism, and remains an important cultural tradition in Japan.
Matcha is Japanese ceremonial green tea made from ground, shade-grown tea leaves. These leaves are harvested, steamed, dried and ground. Hundreds of years ago, Samurai warriors developed an elaborate tea ceremony using matcha that is still studied and practiced today. The elaborate ceremony is highly ritualized, with every aspect of the ceremony having significance, from the tea bowl to the water used. Today, however, matcha is used to flavor things like cheesecake, ice cream and lattes, while also being consumed traditionally as a frothy tea.
Gyokuro tea is one of the most expensive teas in the world--and one of the most difficult to brew. The literal translation of the Japanese name means "jade dew." It is a pale green tea that is always drank alone as an after-meal treat or on special occasions.
Japanese culture places great importance on tea, including tea types and serving methods. In Japan, the traditional tea ceremony can last for up to four hours. Students of the tea ceremony can study for years, and must master data about all aspects of the tea ceremony, including the kimono, the calligraphy, ceramics placement, flower arrangements, proper use of incense and most importantly, the different types of tea.
Many Japanese snacks and desserts are not only colorful and exotic in appearance, but have a strong tradition behind them. Japanese snacks include items like Pocky, balls filled with sweet bean paste, or green tea ice cream. Some Western-developed desserts like certain cakes or ice cream contain ingredients and combinations that come from Japan.
In the 12th century, Japanese tatami mats were used as floor coverings by dignitaries, religious leaders and nobles. After the 17th century, they found their way into homes and are widely used today, particularly for religious and tea ceremonies. They also make a great space for practicing yoga and meditation. Made of a covering of Japanese rush grass, filled with rice straw and finished with a woven binding, they can last for 20 years.
Pottery dating as far back as the Jomon Period (14,000-300 BC) in Japan gives testament to its dual role as both a practical and aesthetic domestic necessity. Many distinctive styles of Japanese pottery exist, and can often be traced back to the region they were created. A common theme found among all the existing styles is an adherence to the Japanese concept of "wabi sabi", which is a reflection on the transient nature of life and finding beauty in the imperfect.
Beautiful paper or silk lanterns are found throughout Asia. While many foreign visitors may appreciate them for their aesthetic appeal, in most Asian countries, Japan included, they hold a greater cultural importance. These lanterns are used in ceremonies to honor both the Buddha and an individual's ancestors. The largest and most famous of these festivals is the Obon Lantern Festival.
The Japanese developed their culture's tea ceremony, called "chanoyu", in the 16th century. Samurai warriors studied the tea ceremony---which draws on Buddhist and Shinto rituals---along with martial arts. A traditional ceremony can last four hours and requires many utensils and other pots and implements to carry out. All objects used in a tea ceremony have been especially chosen for their exquisite beauty by a tea master. Matcha powdered green tea, which is frothed up with a bamboo whisk, is served unsweetened and pure.
Japanese women's ceremonial dress---especially bold, vibrant kimonos---are thought to be an expression of the culture's love of color and nature, which is in relatively short supply in the island nation. Some experts believe that the ancient kimonos, with their graceful lines and serene beauty, can be considered works of Zen Buddhist art.
Though born from Chinese rituals which have their roots in Zen Buddhism, the Japanese and Chinese tea ceremonies have now diverged to contain many differences.
A Japanese tea ceremony is a celebration of the senses. It provides a brief respite from the stresses of contemporary life because its focus is all on beauty found within nature, the seasons and of the space that the host holds the ceremony in.
The Japanese Tea ceremony originated in China and was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks during the 9th century. Today, the Japanese Tea ceremony encompasses both philosophical and artistic traditions. Becoming a skilled host requires years of practice, during which spiritual growth accompanies acquisition of skill.
