Continue reading “Why Is The Sukajan Jacket An Icon Of Pop Culture?”
Ukiyo
It began with the spark of lanterns
Flickering in a city
That teetered on the precipice of change
A floating world,
Filled with the sound of artists calling to their muses
At teahouses passed off as pleasure palaces
Alive with gossip, giri and good times
Spilling out into streets
Heavy with incense
Geisha swayed amongst the fog
Kimonos bright with every colour known to man
Drifting between this life and the next
While chōnin rubbed shoulders with actors
Fresh from kabuki shows
Fantasy and friction
Danced at the table of progress every night
Until dawn’s light washed away the magic
For another day.
Come For A Japanese Taste Sensation At Cocktail Beer Ramen + Bun In Manchester
One of my favourite things about living in Manchester is having access to top level bars and restaurants. In recent years, the city has seen a rise in Japanese venues, adding some great variety to an already thriving food scene. If you’re ever in Manchester and find yourself craving Japanese cuisine, I’d recommend stopping off at a Cocktail Beer Ramen + Bun. This late-night ramen joint has it all: great food, great atmosphere, great staying power. Continue reading “Come For A Japanese Taste Sensation At Cocktail Beer Ramen + Bun In Manchester”
Hagakure
We each have our own battlefield
littered with the ghosts of uncertain thoughts
that linger long after we’ve walked away from the fight
to lay down one’s sword is never easy
to place it into the hands of another takes courage
peace is not a place
it is people
it is human
it is us
The Definitive Guide To Japanese Manchester
Travelling is one of the best ways to expand your knowledge of the world. But it’s not the only way to embrace a new culture. Exploring local communities and experiences are eye-opening in their own right. I’m fascinated by Japan and there are plenty of Japanese related activities in my home city of Manchester. There’s restaurants, bars, societies and exhibits dedicated to celebrating the Land of the Rising Sun. It’s why I’ve put together a guide for anyone who wants to explore Manchester through the lens of Japanese culture. Continue reading “The Definitive Guide To Japanese Manchester”
The Penguin Book of Japanese Short Stories Review
When I think of Japanese authors, the first name that comes to mind is Haruki Murakami. His surreal fiction is a big hit with western audiences and reading his stories opened a gateway for me to other Japanese writers. So, it’s appropriate that Murakami introduces The Penguin Book of Japanese Short Stories. The collection covers traditional Japanese themes like bushido and bizarre situations like UFOS, sugar-filled vaginas and nightmarish paintings. But what unites all the stories is a genuine love of writing from each author. Continue reading “The Penguin Book of Japanese Short Stories Review”
Sakura
From the moment of first bloom
lost love is ignited
in bursts of pink and magenta
flower of contemplation
falling in a gossamer stream
each petal tinged with a memory
for those who came before
hold a five-sided promise
while Maiko wave branches
tipped with fleeting glory
it is the time of Hanami
where temporal beauty grows
thin as paper
song and companionship
are the colours of spring
honour takes root beneath trees
that echo the old proverb
whoever finds a three-sided cherry blossom will always have love in their lives
The Kokoro Files: Mary Murata
The Kokoro Files is a series that is dedicated to sharing the stories of people who are passionate about Japan. I’m pleased to present an interview with taiko drumming expert and Japanese language teacher Mary Murata. Read on to discover the origins of taiko drumming and why the art form is so captivating. Continue reading “The Kokoro Files: Mary Murata”
Tracing The History Of Kitsune In Japanese Folklore And Anime
Symbols are an important part of any culture and there are many significant images in Japanese folklore. Spirits play a vital role and one of the most important is the kitsune, or fox spirit. Kitsunes are depicted as intelligent shapeshifters whose magical ability increases with age. They have the ability to be benevolent or malicious depending on the situation. Some stories portray them as guardians, while others depict them as tricksters. The ambiguity of the fox makes it an interesting symbol in Japanese folklore, one that’s transitioned into modern pop culture. Continue reading “Tracing The History Of Kitsune In Japanese Folklore And Anime”
How The Oni Transformed From A Japanese Demon Into A Pop Culture Icon
Japanese folklore is filled with all types of creatures, with one of the most enduring being the oni. Considered to be a type of yokai, oni took the form of giant, supernatural trolls. Their demonic appearance gave them an evil reputation. Oni have been identified as bringers of chaos, delighting in the punishment of mortals. The connection to the darkness has translated into pop culture, as oni have appeared in art and literature. However, their role has changed over time to reflect modern interpretations. Continue reading “How The Oni Transformed From A Japanese Demon Into A Pop Culture Icon”
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