Philosophy

Culture

Mountain Worship in Japan – Deities Dwelling in the Mountains

Why have the Japanese long seen gods dwelling in mountains? From Jomon-era nature worship and Shugendo practice to the sacred presence of Mount Fuji, Dewa Sanzan, Hakusan, and the Kumano shrines, this article explores Japan’s tradition of mountain worship and its enduring culture of reverence for nature.
Culture

Beautiful Japanese — Words That Hold Landscapes

Beautiful Japanese — Words That Hold LandscapesJapanese is a beautiful language.We use it every day without thinking, ye...
Culture

The Japanese and the Fox — A Bridge Between Worlds Seen and Unseen

Discover how foxes connect the Japanese to the sacred. Explore Inari faith, the Senbon Torii gates, folklore, and nature worship at Fushimi Inari.
Culture

What Are the “Eight Million Gods” That Reside in Japan?

The “Yaoyorozu no Kami” refers to the countless deities in Japan believed to inhabit nature and daily life. This concept reflects the Japanese spirit of harmony, animism, and respect for unseen forces, deeply rooted in Shinto and cultural traditions.
Craftsmanship

The Beauty Layered in Time: The Spirit of Japan in Lacquerware

Japanese lacquerware, or Urushi, reflects a deep aesthetic rooted in nature, time, and craftsmanship. Discover its 9,000-year history, unique regional styles like Wajima-nuri and Aizu-nuri, and the quiet beauty that grows with every use.
Japanese Spirit

Wabi-sabi – Beauty in Imperfection

Wabi-sabi – Beauty in ImperfectionWabi-sabi is a quiet, deeply rooted philosophy that flows beneath the surface of Japan...