Utsuri: “Shadow of the Hamon”
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Japanese swordsmithing is a labor intensive process of forging traditional Japanese bladed weapons often used by the samurai such as the katana (samurai’s sword), tantō (short blade),…
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More of Japan’s Major Deities
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The Emperor of Japan is considered the direct descendant of Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun. Many Japanese myths are based on ancient texts such…
Read ArticleMajor Deities of Japan
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Many divinities native to Japanese beliefs and religious traditions are from the Shinto religion, while some are from Buddhism or Taoism. These deities are integrated into…
Read ArticleThe Kamikaze Pilots of Japan
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The Battle of Bun’ei and the Battle of Kōan were failed Mongol invasion attempts on Japan. It is believed that through divine providence, the Japanese…
Read ArticleComparing Shinto and Buddhism
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It can be confusing to tell the differences between the religious affiliations of a temple or shrine if you are not familiar with religious practices in Japan.…
Read ArticleIntricate Japanese Silk
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Silk has been a much coveted commodity since it was first developed in ancient China. The Silk Road is a 6,000-kilometer trading route that stretched…
Read ArticleThe Great Buddhas of Japan
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Religion is an important cultural aspect and way of life for many Japanese. Numerous Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are scattered all around, as well as…
Read ArticleIshikawa Goemon: Japan’s Legendary Outlaw
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Ishigawa Goemon (石川 五右衛門; 1558 – 1594) was a legendary Japanese outlaw. He was looked upon as a hero who stole gold and other valuables and…
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