Visual kei is a style movement in Japanese music. KISS would be proud of their heavy makeup. Although the hair styles might be a bit too much work for the old school rockers. Visual kei is also full of flamboyant costumes and often makes you wonder what sex the musician really is. Some people consider…
Category: Culture
Shinto
Shinto is the native spiritual system of Japan that we see in various anime and other shows. Also known as kami-no-michi, Shinto is associated with shrines dedicated to various purposes such as war memorials, harvest festivals, love, and others. This article gives a quick overview of Shinto. Many Japanese practice Shinto rituals and also practice…
Taijin Kyofusho–“The Disorder of Fear”
Recently, I came across an article about a culture bound syndrome called Grisis Siknis, the “crazy sickness” of the Miskito people of Nicaragua. This got me wondering if there were any culture bound syndromes specific to Japan. The interesting thing about these type of psychiatric disturbances is that in a very real sense they sum…
Jiro Dreams of Sushi
Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a documentary about an 85 year old living Japanese treasure, Jiro Ono. Jiro elevates sushi into an art. Yet despite his accomplishments he still strives for perfection. His sushi restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, has a Michelin Guide 3 star rating. The best there is.The restaurant is also the first of its…
Japanese Model: Nozomi Sasaki
Nozomi Sasaki is a popular model and commercial actress. She was born in Akita Prefecture in 1988, and began modeling at 14. She is also a commentator for mixed martial arts and kickboxing competitions. Reportedly she is blood type AB. She started her film career in 2009, after she retired from modeling. She was accused…