Interesting Japanese Traditions

Japan is a country of culture and traditions. These traditions and celebrations have attracted the attention of all the people around the world.

Here are a few of the interesting traditions of Japan:

Yamayaki Mountain Burning

In the Japanese language "Yamazaki" means burning down a mountain. It is a festival which involves burning down vegetation from mountains before spring season. The biggest Mountain burning is the Wakakusa Yamayaki in Nara. It has been taking place for hundreds of years but from where it has been celebrated is still unknown.

Mochi Making

Mochi is a traditional food eaten in japan on new year. They are rice cakes made of pounding rice with a large wooden mallet. They are extremely popular in Japan.

Floating Lanterns

In japanese terms, it is "Toro Nagashi" which is an event seen mostly on Japanese Obon Holiday ( A three day buddhist festival held in honor of an ancestor ). Participants float glowing paper lanterns down a river to commemorate the souls of the dead.

Dondo Yaki

This takes place in January. In Japan, It is considered unlucky to keep good luck charms, talismans and items with that year's zodiac sign for more than a year. Instead of throwing them away, they are burned down.

Kampai

Kampai is the Japanese word for "Cheers".The literal meaning of this word is "Dry cup". Kampai is important in Japan and it is considered rude if you start drinking before everyone has a drink for cheers.

Bonenkai parties

Bonenkai party is basically "Forget the year party" and is a way for Japanese people to leave behind their troubles and worries from the current year. It is mainly held among co-workers, groups or friends.

Inemuri

In Japan, it is quite common and the translation of this is "Sleep while being present". This is not just a common tradition but is also respected as a sign, that a person has been working since long to contribute to company's success and thus he/she is tired and couldn't keep their eyes open. This is a sign of diligence.

Sitting Seiza

It is a formal and a kind way of sitting on japanese floor "Tatami". It might be difficult and unpleasant but it helps in maintaining good posture and helps in the blood circulation of body.