Lasting Impressions

 

It would be so easy to sum up Japan with stereotypes like, "Japan is the intersection of pop and traditional culture, and that's what makes it great" like I did in my first post. But to be honest, being in Japan was an amazing experience because it's all new to me, and I used it as an excuse to play all semester.  I'm just going to be frank now, and say what I'm supposing a lot of people are thinking. The reason I go to shrines and temples is because it's a reason to go outside, hang out with friends that mean everything to me, and eat delicious food. The picture above really sums up my experience in Japan well. People from all different countries hanging out under cherry trees together, and eating sushi, strawberries, whatever. Maybe I didn't experience Japanese culture to its full extent, but in my opinion, that's ok because I had an incredible time and made a thousand memories I never want to forget.

I've learned a lesson this semester. I took initiative this semester and went to see things in Kansai area as an excuse to have fun, not learn. When I talk to Japanese people, they so often say, "Arashiyama is famous, but I've never been there." To me, a tourist disguised as a student, it's unthinkable to not take advantage of these things less then an hour from your house. It also makes me wonder... what haven't I seen in Washington that's famous? What haven't I seen in Pullman? I feel like I have something new to look forward to when I go back to that little nowhere town- exploring the attractions in the area. Even if I do just end up back at the Daily Grind chatting with friends, I love talking to friends and drinking tea, so I'm game!

I love Japan, and I intend to come back one day. I will meet more awesome people, eat more awesome food, and see some more awesome sights. I realize this may not be the anthropological conclusion you were hoping for me to reach, but I'm happy with it because I feel it benefits me more then making some lofty assumption about Japanese culture and people. My motto of life is to live and learn, and above all have fun.

Matsuri

Japanese culture is rich with traditions, but by far the most fun is the matsuri. Matsuri translates to festival, but in my experience far exceeds any typical American festival I’ve ever witnessed. I find it fascinating that almost every town holds a matsuri (or several!) every year. Matsuri have their basis in Shinto religion (“the way of the gods”). The origins of each matsuri do differ, but a common purpose is to pacify or please the gods. There may be a goryo, or malicious spirit haunting an area, so the Japanese will set up a shrine, and then celebrate this god to keep it appeased. Of course, if you ask a young Japanese person why they go to a matsuri, they’ll most certainly tell you it’s for the great food and fun atmosphere.

There’s nothing quite as magical as walking down a narrow street in Japan, dimly lit with lanterns that cast a red glow on everything.  Furthermore, street is lined with game and shop tenants shout out egging you on- why don’t you try catching a gold fish? Meanwhile, you can’t help but buy a little something from every taiyaki, kasatera, kakigouri, takoyaki, yakisoba, frozen banana, mizuame stand you see. The most magical scene of all is to see girls fancied up in their summer yukata, walking alongside their geta-clad boyfriends. At your own pace, you fine the shrine or temple the matsuri is dedicated to and pay your respects and say a prayer. Toss a coin, clap your hands, shake a bell, say a prayer, buy a fortune and hope for the best.

Matsuri is a uniquely Japanese experience, and a certain must-do while visiting Japan.

High school Sport's Festival