Quiz Ninja

JAPANESE TRADITIONS

In Japan, many festivals, called matsuri, are celebrated to commemorate traditional culture, historical events, and seasonal changes. Some of the most important festivals are:

GION FESTIVAL: Celebrated in Kyoto, Gion Matsuri is one of Japan's most famous religious festivals, which dates back to the year 869 and is the country's largest festival. During the festival, the city turns into a grand celebration, especially during the two main periods in mid-July, in which massive, beautiful decorated floats are displayed and later paraded. The largest floats, known as yamaboko, which can weigh up to 12 tons, are an iconic sight.

Nagasaki Kunchi: A dragon dance inspired by Chinese culture is performed, which is a highlight of this festival. Nagasaki, which is a Japanese city on the northwest coast of Kyushu island, is located in a large natural harbor. This festival, which has a 400-year history, is very famous in Nagasaki and is celebrated each year for three days, beginning on October 7

Dragon Dance: Inspired by Chinese culture, featuring a giant dragon maneuvered to the rhythm of drums.Decorated Floats: Each neighborhood presents unique floats that reflect Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese influences.Odori: Traditional dances representing local legends, with strong competition among districts.

Processions and Rituals: A procession from the Suwa shrine through the city, with dances and skill demonstrations.Cultural Heritage: Reflects the cultural blend of Nagasaki, highlighting its past as an open trading port.

Gion Odori Geishas Festival: The geisha dance festival in the Gion district is one of the great annual opportunities to see a performance by the geishas and maikos of Kyoto, and the only one that takes place during autumn. The geiko, which is the term for geishas in Kyoto, are the guardians of traditional dance and music, along with the maikos (whom are geisha apprentices) that are concentrated in Kyoto’s five hanamachi (geisha districts).With more than 60 years of history, the Gion Odori is a beautiful display that shows the elegance and spirit of Japanese culture

JAPANESE food

Mochi

Miso soup(misosoupi)

Kaiseki

JAPANESE customs

• Removing shoes when entering the house.
• Bowing when greeting.
• Eating quietly on public transportation.
• Giving and receiving objects with both hands.
• Practicing punctuality.
• Showing gratitude with modest gifts (omiyage).

Thank you