Japanese history and culture

This is a list of articles explaining Japanese history and culture. When traveling in Japan, we will pick up and explain things that you should know to deepen your understanding of the tourist destinations and enjoy them. These articles will also help you choose tourist destinations to visit. Terminology related to Japanese history and culture has a complex intertwined historical background, and there are many types with slight differences, and many of them are difficult to understand. Rather than relying solely on academic expressions, we aim to provide easy-to-understand explanations by using everyday sentences and adding examples.

Otemon: The Ultimate Fusion of Symbolism and Defense in Japanese Castles

The Otemon Gate in Japanese castles serves as both the main entrance and a crucial defensive structure. Learn about its architecture, historical evolution, and significance.

Japanese history and culture

Castle
Masugata Koguchi: The Key to Castle Defense, Ingeniously Obstructing Enemy Invasion

Masugata Koguchi is a defensive structure built at the entrance of Japanese castles and fortresses. Its narrow and intricate passages slow down enemy advancement, providing defenders with advantageous combat opportunities. Learn about the role and significance of Masugata Koguchi in castle defense.

Japanese history and culture

Castle
Haijōrei: The Day Castles Disappeared from Japan

There was an event when castles suddenly disappeared from all over Japan. It was the "Haijōrei" issued in 1873.

Japanese history and culture

Castle
Minyo Nagashi Folk Dance: A masterpiece! 1.5 km, a dancing circle of 10,000 people. Niigata City's summer tradition.

Niigata City's Minyo Nagashi Folk Dance is a traditional event that is part of the Niigata Festival, which is held every summer.

Niigata

Niigata City

Japanese history and culture
Places of Scenic Beauty(名勝, meishō): A place with beautiful scenery and historical value. A designated type of Japanese cultural property.

In Japan, there are places designated as cultural properties called "Places of Scenic Beauty". We will explain what kind of places are designated as scenic spots.

Japanese history and culture

Nationally designated Places of Scenic Beauty
What is Shinsenheihakuryokyoshin-sha(神饌幣帛料供進神社)? : A time when shrines were under state control.

**Shinsen Heihaku Ryō Kyoshin Shrines (神饌幣帛料供進神社)** were Shinto shrines that received offerings of sacred food and ritual money from local public entities from the Meiji era until the end of World War II.

Japanese history and culture