1 The country’s capital Tōkyō, located in east-central Honshū, is one of the world’s most populous cities (approximately 37 million). As a result, contemporary Japan is heavily urbanised, with approximately 91.8% of the population residing in urban areas located by the coastline or in the Kantō Plain. The large-scale industrialisation of the country in the post-war period led to mass urban migration. Almost all major cities were heavily damaged during World War II, which led to reconstruction of older structures, as well as new housing built in Western architectural styles. For instance, the old imperial capitals of Kyōto and Nara have largely retained their historical layout as a castle town. Many of Japan’s cities have an extensive history that can still be seen through architecture and city layouts. While cherry blossom viewing in the springtime is most famous (in part due to the short-lived bloom of the flowers), other seasonal trees and flowers are celebrated across the year. Seasonal blossom viewing is a popular cultural activity for both locals and tourists. Similarly, sakura (cherry blossom trees) are often associated with the coming of spring, while momiji (maple trees) signify autumn. Certain flora and fauna are also associated with the seasons the summer rain occurring through June and July is commonly referred to as baiu (plum rain) as it is the time when plums ripen. For example, local animals (such as tanuki, bears and foxes) are often symbolic to a region’s identity and are woven through narratives in popular culture. Nature and landscapes play an important role throughout Japanese culture.
Japan is also home to approximately 1,500 volcanos, which have contributed to the common occurrence of earthquakes and other natural disasters. These local variations of climate have influenced regional diversity in landscapes and material culture, such as cuisine and clothing. However, the country is home to numerous local climatic variations, ranging from heavy snowfall and sub-zero winter temperatures in Hokkaidō to the humid subtropical climate of Okinawa. Japan’s climate is generally monsoonal, governed by wet and dry seasonal winds.
Each region is geographically, historically and culturally distinct, particularly the northernmost island of Hokkaidō and the southernmost island cluster of Okinawa. There are five main island groups that form Japan: Hokkaidō, Honshū, Shikoku, Kyūshū and Okinawa (also known as Ryūkyū Islands). Nonetheless, common themes found throughout Japanese culture include a sense of identity based on social groups and place of birth, a polite and humble style of communication, a pragmatic approach to situations and challenges, as well as an appreciation and enjoyment of artistic activities and forms of entertainment. In particular, many take pride in their place of birth and the regional differences throughout Japan. Japanese culture is often stereotyped as homogenous, although there are multiple aspects of Japanese culture and society that are diverse. This relationship between the past and future has become a globally recognised feature of Japanese culture and society. While the country develops and manufactures many of the world’s modern appliances and gadgets, families continue to pass on the skills and techniques of long-practised crafts through generations. The historical trading route that ran from Tōkyō to Kyōto (known as Tōkaidō) continues to be heavily travelled, albeit on high-speed railroad lines and express highways. For example, modern buildings and high-rises can be found next to historical structures, temples and shrines. This development has occurred alongside the continuation of intricate and longstanding cultural traditions.
Since the 1950s, the country has emerged as one of the most economically and technologically advanced societies in the world.
Japan is an island country located in the northeast Pacific Ocean.
0 kommentar(er)
