[:it]"Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915" a Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo[:en]"Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915" at Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo[:ja]"Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915" at Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo[:]
[:it]Ancora oggi, dopo due secoli, il Giappone ci “contamina” con la sua eleganza ed il suo mistero, stiamo parlando della mostra "Giapponismo" disponibile a Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo.
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
Quanto semplice può essere Innamorarsi del Giappone e con quanta facilità ne siamo influenzati? Forma, sintesi e raffinatezza sono gli elementi che caratterizzano il “Japonisme”. Una sorta di “dipendenza”, una “moda”, un’arte suggestiva e innovatrice che ha travolto arte e cultura occidentale. Infatti, nel 1853, il Sol Levante ha aperto le sue porte ai rapporti diplomatici e commerciali con il resto del mondo facendo approdare la propria cultura sulle nostre terre.
Prima a Londra nel 1862 e successivamente a Parigi, capitale mondiale dell’arte dalla seconda metà dell’Ottocento, lo stile del Giapponismo conquistò l'Europa. Dalle spettacolari porcellane, l’abbigliamento, le stampe ukiyo-e e gli arredi giapponesi che, a grande velocità, si diffusero in tutte le restanti nazioni. Dalla Germania , all'Olanda, Belgio, Austria, Boemia, fino a giungere in Italia.
Gli artisti del Giapponismo
Ed ecco allora che i grandi artisti come Gauguin, Van Gogh, Klimt, Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Sir John Lavery, Giuseppe De Nittis Antonio Mancini, Antonio Fontanesi, Maurice Denis e Henry Van De Velde (solo per citarne alcuni) mischiarono il proprio stile con quello del Sol Levante. Tutti questi artisti presero ispirazione da quell’onda di “giapponismo” che ha svelato e amplificato il nuovo proveniente dal magico oltre oceano traducendosi nell’Art Nouveau.
photo credits: arte.it
Quella bellezza estranea alla superficialità che dietro ogni forma, tratto e curva nasconde concetti estranei alla cultura occidentale cominciò a diffondersi nella società. Dagli alti ranghi della borghesia, alle le classi sociali più basse, i manifesti contribuirono all'espansione del Giapponismo.
La società cambia, si evolve, corre, si scontra con nuove esigenze ed il consumismo si fa strada. La pubblicità diventa un’arma, ma anche un catalizzatore di influenze, che attira, che fa parlare di sé, che fa nascere dei bisogni poco prima sconosciuti. Una forma d’arte che ha attinto dalle precise caratteristiche morfologiche ed estetiche orientali. Il Giappone diventa modello e guida, con i suoi colori, con il suo equilibrio e la grafica giapponista cattura con i suoi concetti chiave.
photo credits: ansa.it
La mostra Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915
Una vera e propria corrente artistica da annoverare tra quelle immortali e questo è lo scopo della grande mostra “Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915” in corso dal 28 settembre 2019. La mostra esposta a Rovigo presso il Palazzo Roverella sarà disponibile fino al 26 gennaio 2020 . Un viaggio in 4 tappe sapientemente studiate da Francesco Parisi per aiutarci ad ammirare l’inestimabile patrimonio artistico e culturale che abbiamo ereditato.
Assolutamente da non perdere!
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
Dettagli
Sito Ufficiale: http://www.palazzoroverella.com/mostra/giapponismo/
Informazioni: info@palazzoroverella.com
Orari: Lun-Ven 9.00 - 19.00 | Sab - Dom - Festivi 9.00 - 20.00
Biglietti Online: Acquista ora[:en]Still today, after two centuries, Japan "contaminates" us with its elegance and its mystery, we are talking about the "Japonism" exhibition available at Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo.
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
How simple can falling in love with Japan be and how easily are we affected? Form, synthesis and refinement are the elements that characterize the "Japonisme". A sort of "addiction", a "fashion", a suggestive and innovative art that has swept western art and culture. In fact, in 1853, the Rising Sun opened its doors to diplomatic and commercial relations with the rest of the world by bringing its culture to our lands.
First in London in 1862 and then in Paris, the world capital of art from the second half of the nineteenth century, the style of Japonism conquered Europe. From the spectacular porcelains, the clothing, the ukiyo-e prints and the Japanese furnishings that spread to all the remaining nations at great speed. From Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Bohemia, up to Italy.
The artists of Japonism
Also, the great artists like Gauguin, Van Gogh, Klimt, Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Sir John Lavery, Giuseppe De Nittis Antonio Mancini, Antonio Fontanesi, Maurice Denis and Henry Van De Velde (just to name a few) mixed their own style with that of the rising sun. All these artists took inspiration from that wave of "Japonism" that unveiled and amplified the new style coming from the magical overseas, translating into Art Nouveau.
photo credits: arte.it
That stranger beauty to the superficiality that is behind every form, trait, and curve hides concepts foreign to western culture and it began to spread in society. From the upper classes of the bourgeoisie, to the lower social ones where the posters contributed to the expansion of Japonism.
Society changes, evolves, runs, collides with new needs and consumerism makes its way. Advertising becomes a weapon, but also a catalyst of influences, which attracts, which speaks for itself, which gives rise to needs just before unknown. An art form that drew from the precise morphological and aesthetic oriental characteristics. Japan becomes a model and guide, with its colors, its balance and the Japanese graphics that captures with its key concepts.
photo credits: ansa.it
The exhibition Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915
A real artistic current to be counted among the immortal ones and this is the purpose of the great exhibition "Japonism, Winds of the East in European art. 1860 - 1915 " in progress since 28 September 2019. The exhibition on display in Rovigo at Palazzo Roverella will be available until 26 January 2020. A journey in 4 stages expertly designed by Francesco Parisi to help us admire the priceless artistic and cultural heritage that we have inherited.
Absolutely not to be missed!
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
Details
Official Website: http://www.palazzoroverella.com/mostra/giapponismo/
Information: info@palazzoroverella.com
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.00 - 19.00 | Sat - Sun - Holidays 9.00 am - 8.00 pm
Online Tickets: Buy now[:ja]Still today, after two centuries, Japan "contaminates" us with its elegance and its mystery, we are talking about the "Japonism" exhibition available at Palazzo Rovella, Rovigo.
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
How simple can falling in love with Japan be and how easily are we affected? Form, synthesis and refinement are the elements that characterize the "Japonisme". A sort of "addiction", a "fashion", a suggestive and innovative art that has swept western art and culture. In fact, in 1853, the Rising Sun opened its doors to diplomatic and commercial relations with the rest of the world by bringing its culture to our lands.
First in London in 1862 and then in Paris, the world capital of art from the second half of the nineteenth century, the style of Japonism conquered Europe. From the spectacular porcelains, the clothing, the ukiyo-e prints and the Japanese furnishings that spread to all the remaining nations at great speed. From Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Bohemia, up to Italy.
The artists of Japonism
Also, the great artists like Gauguin, Van Gogh, Klimt, Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Sir John Lavery, Giuseppe De Nittis Antonio Mancini, Antonio Fontanesi, Maurice Denis and Henry Van De Velde (just to name a few) mixed their own style with that of the rising sun. All these artists took inspiration from that wave of "Japonism" that unveiled and amplified the new style coming from the magical overseas, translating into Art Nouveau.
photo credits: arte.it
That stranger beauty to the superficiality that is behind every form, trait, and curve hides concepts foreign to western culture and it began to spread in society. From the upper classes of the bourgeoisie, to the lower social ones where the posters contributed to the expansion of Japonism.
Society changes, evolves, runs, collides with new needs and consumerism makes its way. Advertising becomes a weapon, but also a catalyst of influences, which attracts, which speaks for itself, which gives rise to needs just before unknown. An art form that drew from the precise morphological and aesthetic oriental characteristics. Japan becomes a model and guide, with its colors, its balance and the Japanese graphics that captures with its key concepts.
photo credits: ansa.it
The exhibition Giapponismo, Venti d’Oriente nell’arte europea. 1860 – 1915
A real artistic current to be counted among the immortal ones and this is the purpose of the great exhibition "Japonism, Winds of the East in European art. 1860 - 1915 " in progress since 28 September 2019. The exhibition on display in Rovigo at Palazzo Roverella will be available until 26 January 2020. A journey in 4 stages expertly designed by Francesco Parisi to help us admire the priceless artistic and cultural heritage that we have inherited.
Absolutely not to be missed!
photo credits: palazzoroverella.com
Details
Official Website: http://www.palazzoroverella.com/mostra/giapponismo/
Information: info@palazzoroverella.com
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.00 - 19.00 | Sat - Sun - Holidays 9.00 am - 8.00 pm
Online Tickets: Buy now[:]
[:it]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 03 - I migliori posti per alloggiare a Tokyo[:en]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 03 - Best places to stay in Tokyo[:ja]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 03 - Best places to stay in Tokyo[:]
[:it]Trovare un alloggio a Tokyo è estremamente semplice poiché la città offre tipologie che si adattano alle esigenze di tutti. Che si tratti di un lussuoso hotel, un albergo per famiglie, un ryokan, la nuovissima moda delle capsule, oppure qualcosa di più economico Tokyo offre di tutto. Tuttavia, ciò che fa veramente la differenza è il quartiere. Come abbiamo visto nei nostri blog, ognuno di essi propone spaccati di una società complessa e affascinante, caratterizzati da storia, cultura, modernità, tecnologia e molto altro.
Per questo episodio dedicato alle nostre guide pratiche, abbiamo deciso di proporvi e raccogliere una lista di quelle che per noi sono le aree migliori dove soggiornare a Tokyo in base agli interessi e alle loro più spiccate caratteristiche.
Indietro nel tempo: Asakusa, a tutto Edo!
photo credits: ar.jal.co.jp
Asakusa, con le sue pittoresche stradine, offre storia e cultura senza precedenti. Questo quartiere permette ai suoi visitatori di immergersi in quello che era la vecchia Tokyo del periodo Edo. Ristoranti tradizionali, locande e negozi dove si possono trovare souvenirs artigianali fanno da contorno. Il fulcro è il tempio Sensōji, dedicato a Kannon Sama, la dea buddista della misericordia, luogo di venerazione più antico di Tokyo.
Fascino a grandi altezze: il romanticismo di Ebisu
photo credits: tokyocheapo.com
Una delle stazioni della Yamamote Line è Ebisu, quartiere di Shibuya con i suoi altissimi grattacieli. Qui troviamo anche lo Yebisu Garden Place, una torre dall’architettura europea, il cui ingresso è gratuito. Circondata da piazze e giardini, qui si può cenare in un ristorante che assomiglia ad un castello francese innamorandosi una vista mozzafiato su tutta Tokyo. Ad Ebisu si trova anche il grande magazzino Mitsukoshi, il Museo della Birra ed il Tokyo Photographic Art Museum.
Stravagante vita notturna : Roppongi & Shinjuku
photo credits: flickriver.com
Roppongi è il quartiere che, per eccellenza, ospita bar, izakaya e ristoranti che offrono qualunque tipo di cucina. Roppongi è nota soprattutto per il Roppongi Hills un complesso gigantesco che comprende uffici, appartamenti, negozi, ristoranti. Ma anche sale cinematografiche, parchi, un museo, un hotel, uno studio televisivo e un anfiteatro all'aperto. Al al centro di tutta questa area sorge la Mori Tower, un edificio di 54 piani.
Ancora più “fuori dagli schemi” è Shinjuku, la cui vita notturna è vasta e in qualche modo anche perversa grazie a Kabukicho, il famosissimo quartiere a luci rosse e il Golden Gai, un labirinto di stradine fiancheggiate da un numero impressionante di piccolissimi bar.
Lontano dalla frenesia: Meguro
photo credits: realestate.co.jp
Prevalentemente residenziale, a Meguro la vita metropolitana si mette in pausa e l’atmosfera è hipster. Qui ci sono boutique uniche nel loro genere, eleganti caffè, ristoranti e negozi vintage. Tuttavia, ciò che la rende magica è tutta la zona alberata lungo il fiume Meguro. Qui in primavera gli alberi di ciliegio regalano a questo quartiere una tinta rosea ed estremamente rilassante in cui concedersi un pic-nic tradizionale.
I bambini ameranno Odaiba
photo credits: livejapan.com
Non esiste luogo più indicato per le famiglie di Odaiba. Questa isola artificiale offre tanto intrattenimento per i bambini di tutte le età. Infatti, qui troviamo la Toyota Mega Web, il famoso museo Miraikan, Joypolis, Legoland e moltissimi centri commerciali, straripanti di ristoranti per ogni gusto.
Per i cultori del lusso e del cibo nulla è paragonabile a Ginza
photo credits: gotokyo.org
Non esiste quartiere noto per la propria area commerciale di lusso come Ginza. Qui possiamo trovare negozi famosi (e costosi), ma anche grandi magazzini che, nel seminterrato, ospitano negozi alimentari davvero unici. Inoltre, Ginza è famosissima anche per i suoi ristoranti che spaziano dall’alta cucina francese ai piatti fusion. Ma anche per piccoli izakaya e sofisticati cocktail lounge. Insomma, se amate bere e mangiare e volete dedicarvi al turismo gastronomico, questo è ciò che fa per voi!
Fashion, dinamismo e trasporti: Shibuya
photo credits: photo-collection.geo.fr
Volete vivere la frenesia vera di Tokyo? Shibuya non vi deluderà! Questa infatti è una delle zone più dinamiche della città. Costantemente illuminata dai megaschermi che sono presenti su tutti i palazzi, è anche l’area più colorata e caratteristica grazie ai giovani che si dedicano all’arte del cosplay. Per non parlare delle mode ganguro (abbigliamento alternativo vistoso e kitsch) e kogal (abbigliamento e trucco sono vistosi e ispirati all’occidente, esasperando le nostre caratteristiche). Shibuya è uno dei maggiori nodi di trasporti del paese. Da qui, treni, metro e autostrade vi permetteranno di arrivare ovunque in ogni momento!
Dopo aver letto le offerte di ciascun quartiere, quali tra queste aree corrispondono alla vostra personalità? Cosa cercate per il vostro soggiorno a Tokyo? Scriveteci le vostre opinioni e raccontateci le vostre esperienze legate ad una delle città più belle al mondo![:en]Finding accommodation in Tokyo is extremely simple as the city offers types that fit everyone's needs. Whether it's a luxury hotel, a family one, a ryokan, the brand new capsule style, or something cheaper, Tokyo offers everything. However, what really makes the difference is the neighborhood. As we have seen in our blogs, each of them proposes splits of a complex and fascinating society, characterized by history, culture, modernity, technology and much more.
For this episode dedicated to our practical guides, we have decided to offer you and collect a list of what for us are the best areas to stay in Tokyo based on interests and their most outstanding characteristics.
Back in time: Asakusa, Edo all the way!
photo credits: ar.jal.co.jp
Asakusa, with its picturesque streets, offers history and culture without precedent. This neighborhood allows its visitors to immerse themselves in what used to be the old Tokyo of the Edo period. Traditional restaurants, inns, and shops where crafted souvenirs can be found everywhere. The center is the Sensōji temple, dedicated to Kannon Sama, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, the oldest place of worship in Tokyo.
Charm at great heights: the romanticism of Ebisu
photo credits: tokyocheapo.com
One of the Yamamote Line stations is Ebisu, a district of Shibuya with its tall skyscrapers. Here we also find the Yebisu Garden Place, a tower with European architecture, whose entrance is free. Surrounded by squares and gardens, here you can dine in a restaurant that looks like a French castle and you can fall in love with a breathtaking view of all of Tokyo. Ebisu is also home to the Mitsukoshi department store, the Beer Museum and the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum.
Extravagant nightlife: Roppongi & Shinjuku
photo credits: flickriver.com
Roppongi is the neighborhood that, par excellence, hosts bars, izakaya and restaurants that offer any type of cuisine. Roppongi is especially known for the Roppongi Hills, a gigantic complex that includes offices, apartments, shops and restaurants. But also cinemas, parks, a museum, a hotel, a television studio, and an outdoor amphitheater. At the center of this whole area stands the Mori Tower, a 54-story building.
Even more "outside the box" is Shinjuku, whose nightlife is vast and in some ways even perverse thanks to Kabukicho, the famous red-light district and the Golden Gai, a maze of narrow streets lined with an impressive number of tiny bars.
Far from the frenzy: Meguro
photo credits: realestate.co.jp
Predominantly residential, metropolitan life pauses in Meguro and the atmosphere is hipster. Here there are unique boutiques, elegant cafes, restaurants and vintage shops. However, what makes it all magical is the tree-lined area along the Meguro River. Here in spring the cherry trees give this neighborhood a rosy and extremely relaxing hue in which to enjoy a traditional picnic.
Kids will love Odaiba
photo credits: livejapan.com
There is no place more suitable then Odaiba for families. This artificial island offers plenty of entertainment for children of all ages. In fact, here we find the Toyota Mega Web, the famous Miraikan museum, Joypolis, Legoland and many shopping centers, overflowing with restaurants for every taste.
For lovers of luxury and food, nothing is comparable to Ginza
photo credits: gotokyo.org
There is no neighborhood known for its luxury shopping area like Ginza. Here we can find famous (and expensive) shops, but also department stores that, in the basement, host truly unique food shops. Moreover, Ginza is also famous for its restaurants that range from French haute cuisine to fusion dishes. But also for small izakaya and sophisticated cocktail lounges. In short, if you love drinking and eating and you want to devote yourself to gastronomic tourism, this is for you!
Fashion, dynamism and transport: Shibuya
photo credits: photo-collection.geo.fr
Want to experience the real frenzy of Tokyo? Shibuya will not disappoint you! This is in fact one of the most dynamic areas of the city. Constantly illuminated by the giant screens that are present on all the buildings, it is also the most colorful and characteristic area thanks to the young people who are dedicated to the art of cosplay. Not to mention the ganguro fashions (flashy and kitsch alternative clothing) and kogal (clothing and makeup are flashy and inspired by the West, exasperating our characteristics). Shibuya is one of the largest transport hubs in the country. From here, trains, metro, and highways will allow you to get anywhere at any time!
After reading each neighborhood's offers, which of these areas correspond to your personality? What do you look for in your stay in Tokyo? Write us your opinions and tell us about your experiences related to one of the most beautiful cities in the world![:ja]Finding accommodation in Tokyo is extremely simple as the city offers types that fit everyone's needs. Whether it's a luxury hotel, a family one, a ryokan, the brand new capsule style, or something cheaper, Tokyo offers everything. However, what really makes the difference is the neighborhood. As we have seen in our blogs, each of them proposes splits of a complex and fascinating society, characterized by history, culture, modernity, technology and much more.
For this episode dedicated to our practical guides, we have decided to offer you and collect a list of what for us are the best areas to stay in Tokyo based on interests and their most outstanding characteristics.
Back in time: Asakusa, Edo all the way!
photo credits: ar.jal.co.jp
Asakusa, with its picturesque streets, offers history and culture without precedent. This neighborhood allows its visitors to immerse themselves in what used to be the old Tokyo of the Edo period. Traditional restaurants, inns, and shops where crafted souvenirs can be found everywhere. The center is the Sensōji temple, dedicated to Kannon Sama, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, the oldest place of worship in Tokyo.
Charm at great heights: the romanticism of Ebisu
photo credits: tokyocheapo.com
One of the Yamamote Line stations is Ebisu, a district of Shibuya with its tall skyscrapers. Here we also find the Yebisu Garden Place, a tower with European architecture, whose entrance is free. Surrounded by squares and gardens, here you can dine in a restaurant that looks like a French castle and you can fall in love with a breathtaking view of all of Tokyo. Ebisu is also home to the Mitsukoshi department store, the Beer Museum and the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum.
Extravagant nightlife: Roppongi & Shinjuku
photo credits: flickriver.com
Roppongi is the neighborhood that, par excellence, hosts bars, izakaya and restaurants that offer any type of cuisine. Roppongi is especially known for the Roppongi Hills, a gigantic complex that includes offices, apartments, shops and restaurants. But also cinemas, parks, a museum, a hotel, a television studio, and an outdoor amphitheater. At the center of this whole area stands the Mori Tower, a 54-story building.
Even more "outside the box" is Shinjuku, whose nightlife is vast and in some ways even perverse thanks to Kabukicho, the famous red-light district and the Golden Gai, a maze of narrow streets lined with an impressive number of tiny bars.
Far from the frenzy: Meguro
photo credits: realestate.co.jp
Predominantly residential, metropolitan life pauses in Meguro and the atmosphere is hipster. Here there are unique boutiques, elegant cafes, restaurants and vintage shops. However, what makes it all magical is the tree-lined area along the Meguro River. Here in spring the cherry trees give this neighborhood a rosy and extremely relaxing hue in which to enjoy a traditional picnic.
Kids will love Odaiba
photo credits: livejapan.com
There is no place more suitable then Odaiba for families. This artificial island offers plenty of entertainment for children of all ages. In fact, here we find the Toyota Mega Web, the famous Miraikan museum, Joypolis, Legoland and many shopping centers, overflowing with restaurants for every taste.
For lovers of luxury and food, nothing is comparable to Ginza
photo credits: gotokyo.org
There is no neighborhood known for its luxury shopping area like Ginza. Here we can find famous (and expensive) shops, but also department stores that, in the basement, host truly unique food shops. Moreover, Ginza is also famous for its restaurants that range from French haute cuisine to fusion dishes. But also for small izakaya and sophisticated cocktail lounges. In short, if you love drinking and eating and you want to devote yourself to gastronomic tourism, this is for you!
Fashion, dynamism and transport: Shibuya
photo credits: photo-collection.geo.fr
Want to experience the real frenzy of Tokyo? Shibuya will not disappoint you! This is in fact one of the most dynamic areas of the city. Constantly illuminated by the giant screens that are present on all the buildings, it is also the most colorful and characteristic area thanks to the young people who are dedicated to the art of cosplay. Not to mention the ganguro fashions (flashy and kitsch alternative clothing) and kogal (clothing and makeup are flashy and inspired by the West, exasperating our characteristics). Shibuya is one of the largest transport hubs in the country. From here, trains, metro, and highways will allow you to get anywhere at any time!
After reading each neighborhood's offers, which of these areas correspond to your personality? What do you look for in your stay in Tokyo? Write us your opinions and tell us about your experiences related to one of the most beautiful cities in the world![:]
[:it]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 02 - Shopping guide[:en]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 02 - Shopping guide[:ja]Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 01[:]
[:it]Viaggiare è un’esperienza unica che ci permette di allargare il nostro bagaglio culturale e di venire a contatto con realtà più o meno distanti dalle nostre. Allo stesso modo però una della consuetudini più diffuse è quella di ritornare a casa portando con sé ricordi anche materiali.
Per questo motivo, in questo nuovo episodio delle nostre speciali guide, vogliamo indicarvi dove, come e cosa acquistare a Tokyo!
Non vogliamo alimentare in voi lo spirito del consumismo, ma bensì condurvi sulla strada degli acquisti unici, carini, utili, necessari, appaganti. Infatti, da che mondo è mondo, l’essere umano ha bisogno anche di sentirsi coccolato e di dedicarsi qualche spesa in più per il solo gusto di farlo.
Ecco quindi il nostro piccolo viaggio nel mondo dello shopping di Tokyo!
Passeggiando per Asakusa: Nakamise Dori
photo credits: thejapanesedreams.com
La Nakamise Dori è una delle strade pedonali più caratteristiche per lo shopping ad Asakusa. Fiancheggiata dalle numerosi bancarelle in cui è possibile trovare artigianato tradizionale souvenirs e snack, è una tappa perfetta per gli acquisti last minute. I negozi che costeggiano la via sono un vero paradiso per chi cerca la washi, la carta giapponese per gli origami.
Nel cuore di Shinjuku: Okadaya
photo credits: shinjuku-guide.com
Il negozio di Okadaya mette a disposizione ben 6 piani di articoli per artigianato, filati, kit da cucito, libri-guida per il fai da te, fodere, materiali tradizionali giapponesi e altri tessuti particolari. Una meta molto amata dagli studenti che frequentano la scuola di design e moda poco distante!
Tutto a 100 Yen o poco più: Daiso
photo credits: planetyze.com
Daiso oggi è un marchio conosciuto in molti paesi nel mondo e sono presenti un sacco di negozi in tutto il Giappone. A Tokyo è il posto ideale per spendere poco e trovare un tantissimi oggetti più o meno utili, carini, divertenti, particolari e così via che. Nonostante il costo estremamente basso, sono di una sorprendente qualità!
Cuteness overload: Aranzi Aronzo, Character Street, Sunshine City e Yamashiroya
photo credits: matcha-jp.com
Nel centro commerciale del Tokyo sky tree è stato aperto Aranzi Aronzo un negozio dove tutto è “carino, strano e coccoloso”. Qui possiamo trovare teneri personaggi sotto forma di giocattoli, oggetti per la casa, articoli di cartoleria, accessori e libri di artigianato.
Al piano inferiore della stazione di Tokyo, dalle uscite Yaesu e Marunouchi, nella First Avenue ecco fare capolino la Character Street. Si tratta di un’intera strada commerciale straripante di negozi dedicati ai personaggi più amati in Giappone. Qui troviamo Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Totoro, Miffy, Tamagotchi, Rement e Pokemon! Inoltre all’Okashi Land è possibile rifornirsi delle caramelle e i dolci più famosi e conosciuti come i Pocky!
photo credits: happyjappy.com
Invece, vicino alla stazione di Ikebukuro sorge un grattacielo di 60 piani al cui interno troviamo ben due centri commerciali! A Sunshine City esistono negozi meravigliosi come
Donguri Kyowakoku, in cui è possibile trovare qualunque cosa a tema Studio Ghibli. Non dimentichiamoci poi di Dagashiya, in cui si possono acquistare dolci di ogni tipo in adorabili confezioni. HAPiNS, dove poter trovare utensili e oggetti per la casa unici e deliziosi e i peluche di Hannari Tofu e Alpacasso. Inoltre troviamo anche il Pokemon Center, il Sanrio Vivitix, Kutsushitaya, il Village Vanguard, Swimmer. Insomma, non manca di certo l’imbarazzo della scelta!
Proprio davanti l’ingresso della stazione di Ueno si trova Yamashiroya. Uno splendido negozio di 6 piani tutti da esplorare che offrono giocattoli di ogni tipo, articoli per collezionisti, action figures. Ma anche peluches di ogni genere e marca, souvenirs e tantissime gacha-machine che erogano alcuni dei gashapon più belli!
Il Creative Life: Tokyu Hands
photo credits: gotokyo.org
Il Tokyu Hands ha davvero tante filiali sparse per il Giappone e qui a Tokyo sono facilmente rintracciabili ad Ikebukuro, Shibuya e Shinjuku. E’ il negozio per eccellenza dove si può trovare veramente di tutto e tutto tipicamente giapponese! Che siano articoli creativi, artistici e artigianato, oggetti per la casa, articoli di cartoleria bellissimi. Oppure valigie, pentole, mobili o attrezzi per il fai da te, Tokyu Hands è un paradiso. Questo è probabilmente il luogo per il quale io consiglierei una visita assolutamente obbligatoria!
Quali tra questi negozi vi ha colpito maggiormente? Avete già in mente una lista di cose che dovrete assolutamente acquistare una volta arrivati a Tokyo? Io credo che impazzirete e probabilmente spenderete soldi in oggetti assurdi che non avreste mai pensato di aver bisogno…. almeno fino a quel momento![:en]Traveling is a unique experience that allows us to broaden our cultural background and come into contact with realities that are more or less distant from ours. In the same way, however, one of the most widespread customs is that of returning home, bringing back even material memories.
For this reason, in this new episode of our special guides, we want to show you where, how and what to buy in Tokyo!
We do not want to nourish the spirit of consumerism in you, but rather to lead you on the path of unique, cute, useful, necessary, satisfying purchases. In fact, the human being also needs to feel pampered and to spend some extra money for the sake of it.
So here is our little trip to the Tokyo shopping world!
Walking through Asakusa: Nakamise Dori
photo credits: thejapanesedreams.com
The Nakamise Dori is one of the most characteristic pedestrian shopping streets in Asakusa. Lined with numerous stalls where you can find traditional souvenirs and snacks, it is a perfect stop for last-minute purchases. The shops that line the street are a real paradise for those looking for washi, the Japanese paper for origami.
In the heart of Shinjuku: Okadaya
photo credits: shinjuku-guide.com
The Okadaya store offers 6 floors of craft items, yarns, sewing kits, DIY guide books, linings, traditional Japanese materials, and other special fabrics. A destination much loved by students attending the design and fashion school nearby!
100 Yen or so: Daiso
photo credits: planetyze.com
Daiso today is a brand known in many countries around the world and there are plenty of shops throughout Japan. In Tokyo, it's the ideal place to spend little and find a lot of objects more or less useful, cute, funny, particular and so on. Despite the extremely low cost, they are of a surprising quality!
Cuteness overload: Aranzi Aronzo, Character Street, Sunshine City e Yamashiroya
photo credits: matcha-jp.com
In the Tokyo sky tree shopping center, Aranzi Aronzo was opened, a store where everything is "cute, strange and cuddly". Here we can find tender characters in the form of toys, household items, stationery, accessories and craft books.
On the lower level of the Tokyo station, from the Yaesu and Marunouchi exits, the Character Street peeps out on First Avenue. It is an entire commercial street overflowing with shops dedicated to the most beloved characters in Japan. Here we find Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Totoro, Miffy, Tamagotchi, Rement, and Pokemon! Also at the Okashi Land, it is possible to stock up on the most famous sweets and desserts known as Pocky!
photo credits: happyjappy.com
Instead, near the Ikebukuro station, there is a skyscraper of 60 floors inside which we find two shopping centers! In Sunshine City, there are wonderful shops like Donguri Kyowakoku, where you can find anything with a Studio Ghibli theme. And let's not forget about Dagashiya, where you can buy all kinds of sweets in lovely packages. HAPiNS, where you can find unique and delicious utensils and objects for the home and the plush toys of Hannari Tofu and Alpacasso. In addition, we also find the Pokemon Center, the Sanrio Vivitix, Kutsushitaya, the Village Vanguard, Swimmer. In short, there is certainly plenty of choice!
Yamashiroya is right in front of the entrance to Ueno station. A splendid store of 6 floors to be explored that offer all kinds of toys, collectors' items, action figures. But also stuffed animals of every kind and brand, souvenirs and lots of gacha-machines that supply some of the most beautiful gashapons!
The Creative Life: Tokyu Hands
photo credits: gotokyo.org
The Tokyu Hands has really many branches scattered around Japan and here in Tokyo, they are easily traceable to Ikebukuro, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. It is the store par excellence where you can really find everything and everything typically Japanese! Whether they are creative, artistic and craft items, household items, beautiful stationery. Or suitcases, pots, furniture or tools for DIY, Tokyu Hands is a paradise. This is probably the place for which I would recommend an absolutely mandatory visit!
Which of these stores struck you most? Do you already have in mind a list of things that you absolutely must buy once you arrive in Tokyo? I believe that you will go crazy and you will probably spend money on absurd objects that you never thought you needed ... at least until that moment![:ja]Traveling is a unique experience that allows us to broaden our cultural background and come into contact with realities that are more or less distant from ours. In the same way, however, one of the most widespread customs is that of returning home, bringing back even material memories.
For this reason, in this new episode of our special guides, we want to show you where, how and what to buy in Tokyo!
We do not want to nourish the spirit of consumerism in you, but rather to lead you on the path of unique, cute, useful, necessary, satisfying purchases. In fact, the human being also needs to feel pampered and to spend some extra money for the sake of it.
So here is our little trip to the Tokyo shopping world!
Walking through Asakusa: Nakamise Dori
photo credits: thejapanesedreams.com
The Nakamise Dori is one of the most characteristic pedestrian shopping streets in Asakusa. Lined with numerous stalls where you can find traditional souvenirs and snacks, it is a perfect stop for last-minute purchases. The shops that line the street are a real paradise for those looking for washi, the Japanese paper for origami.
In the heart of Shinjuku: Okadaya
photo credits: shinjuku-guide.com
The Okadaya store offers 6 floors of craft items, yarns, sewing kits, DIY guide books, linings, traditional Japanese materials, and other special fabrics. A destination much loved by students attending the design and fashion school nearby!
100 Yen or so: Daiso
photo credits: planetyze.com
Daiso today is a brand known in many countries around the world and there are plenty of shops throughout Japan. In Tokyo, it's the ideal place to spend little and find a lot of objects more or less useful, cute, funny, particular and so on. Despite the extremely low cost, they are of a surprising quality!
Cuteness overload: Aranzi Aronzo, Character Street, Sunshine City e Yamashiroya
photo credits: matcha-jp.com
In the Tokyo sky tree shopping center, Aranzi Aronzo was opened, a store where everything is "cute, strange and cuddly". Here we can find tender characters in the form of toys, household items, stationery, accessories and craft books.
On the lower level of the Tokyo station, from the Yaesu and Marunouchi exits, the Character Street peeps out on First Avenue. It is an entire commercial street overflowing with shops dedicated to the most beloved characters in Japan. Here we find Hello Kitty, Rilakkuma, Totoro, Miffy, Tamagotchi, Rement, and Pokemon! Also at the Okashi Land, it is possible to stock up on the most famous sweets and desserts known as Pocky!
photo credits: happyjappy.com
Instead, near the Ikebukuro station, there is a skyscraper of 60 floors inside which we find two shopping centers! In Sunshine City, there are wonderful shops like Donguri Kyowakoku, where you can find anything with a Studio Ghibli theme. And let's not forget about Dagashiya, where you can buy all kinds of sweets in lovely packages. HAPiNS, where you can find unique and delicious utensils and objects for the home and the plush toys of Hannari Tofu and Alpacasso. In addition, we also find the Pokemon Center, the Sanrio Vivitix, Kutsushitaya, the Village Vanguard, Swimmer. In short, there is certainly plenty of choice!
Yamashiroya is right in front of the entrance to Ueno station. A splendid store of 6 floors to be explored that offer all kinds of toys, collectors' items, action figures. But also stuffed animals of every kind and brand, souvenirs and lots of gacha-machines that supply some of the most beautiful gashapons!
The Creative Life: Tokyu Hands
photo credits: gotokyo.org
The Tokyu Hands has really many branches scattered around Japan and here in Tokyo, they are easily traceable to Ikebukuro, Shibuya, and Shinjuku. It is the store par excellence where you can really find everything and everything typically Japanese! Whether they are creative, artistic and craft items, household items, beautiful stationery. Or suitcases, pots, furniture or tools for DIY, Tokyu Hands is a paradise. This is probably the place for which I would recommend an absolutely mandatory visit!
Which of these stores struck you most? Do you already have in mind a list of things that you absolutely must buy once you arrive in Tokyo? I believe that you will go crazy and you will probably spend money on absurd objects that you never thought you needed ... at least until that moment![:]
Travel Guide: Osaka
[:it]Continuiamo il viaggio fra le prefetture e le città del Giappone e oggi vi portiamo a Osaka!
photo credits: easyviaggio.com
L’antica capitale
Dal 683 al 745, durante il periodo Tokugawa, Osaka (大阪) fu la capitale del Giappone con il nome di Naniwa (難波). Tuttavia, durante l’era Meiji la capitale fu spostata a Tokyo. Successivamente, Osaka divenne il centro dei trasporti via terra, mare e fiumi grazie agli imprenditori che presero il comando dello sviluppo industriale. Durante la seconda guerra mondiale, la città fu rasa al suolo, ma il grande spirito giapponese non permise la sua disfatta. Infatti, Osaka venne ricostruita più prospera di quanto non lo fosse mai stata.
Oggi Osaka è considerata come “la cucina del Giappone”. Inoltre, è un importante centro economico e portuale, nonchè terza città più importante del paese.
photo credits: https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cowardlion
Innamorarsi di Osaka
Detentrice di un fascino unico, Osaka è una città che deve necessariamente rientrare nella vostra lista desideri poichè vi farà innamorare in breve tempo!
Una tappa fondamentale è il Castello di Osaka, luogo tanto amato durante il periodo dell’Hanami grazie ai 600 alberi di ciliegio che lo circondano. Il castello costruito nel 1583 da Toyotomi Hideyoshi è considerato una della attrazioni storiche più importanti del Giappone!
Se amate le vedute mozzafiato, l’Umeda Sky Building vi farà sognare con la sua vista a 360° sull’intera città. Dal suo ultramoderno osservatorio situato a 173 metri di altezza è infatti possibile scattare foto mozzafiato! Inoltre ad Umeda ci si può dedicare allo shopping grazie ai suoi spettacolari centri commerciali. Inoltre, restando in tema, se non potete resistere alla sfrenata voglia di fare compere, potete recarvi a Shinsaibashi. Quartiere dello shopping per eccellenza, ogni turista attraversa i 600 metri dello Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade con le sue numerose boutique, negozi al dettaglio e grandi magazzini lussuosi!
photo credits: gaijinpot.com
Abbiamo detto che Osaka è considerata la “cucina del Giappone”, per questo motivo dovete assolutamente visitare Dotonbori. Glico Man (Glico è il nome della famosa compagnia produttrice di caramelle e Pocky) vi darà il benvenuto!
photo credits: favy-jp.com
Questo gigante fu installato nel 1935 ed è divenuto il punto caratteristico di riferimento di Dotonbori.
Circa 30 anni dopo venne costruito il granchio meccanizzato del ristorante Kani Doraku. Questo locale serve tutti i tipi di granchio seguito da Zuboraya e Kinryu Ramen, i ristoranti più famosi del quartiere.
photo credits: 123rf.com
Se amate i musei, non potete rinunciare al Naniwa Rekihaku, il Museo di storia di Osaka. Ospitato in un palazzo dalle fattezze ultra moderne, la sua caratteristica speciale è che la visita al museo inizia dal decimo piano, l’ultimo! Dall’antico Giappone si percorrono in discesa i diversi piani dedicati ai vari periodi storici della città. Si arriva infine al primo piano dove ci sono gli immancabili negozi di souvenirs.
Nel periodo Edo, Osaka fu anche la capitale del Bunraku. Questa è una forma di spettacolo teatrale caratterizzato dall’uso delle marionette che intratteneva sia la nobiltà che la popolazione. Gli spettacoli di bunraku si tengono generalmente a Gennaio, Aprile, Giugno, Luglio, Agosto e Novembre in settimane specifiche. Vi invitiamo a controllare le informazioni sugli spettacoli del National Bunraku Theatre qui: https://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/bunraku.html
photo credits: japantravel.com
E se dopo tutto avete voglia di divertirvi, una visita al parco più amato in Giappone è doverosa! Stiamo parlando degli Universal Studios Japan (ユニバーサルスタジオジャパン). Il parco si divide in 9 zone tematiche: Hollywood, Universal Wonderland, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Amity Village, Waterworld, Jurassic Park, San Francisco, Minion Park e New York. Per tutte le informazioni e i dettagli vi rimandiamo al sito ufficiale disponibile anche in lingua inglese: https://www.usj.co.jp/e/
photo credits: neverendingvoyage.com
Siamo riuscite ad incuriosirvi? Oppure avete già visitato Osaka e vi siete perduti nella sua storia? Raccontateci tutte le vostre impressioni! Non c’è cosa più bella delle memorie per condividere un sogno.[:en]Let's continue the through among the prefectures and cities of Japan and today we take you to Osaka!
photo credits: easyviaggio.com
The ancient capital
During the Tokugawa period, from 683 to 745, Osaka (大阪) was the capital of Japan with the name of Naniwa (難波). However, during the Meiji era the capital was moved to Tokyo. Subsequently, Osaka became the center of land, sea and river transport thanks to the entrepreneurs who took command of industrial development. During the Second World War, the city was razed to the ground, but the great Japanese spirit did not allow its defeat. In fact, Osaka was rebuilt more prosperous than it ever had been.
Today Osaka is considered as "the cuisine of Japan". Moreover, it is an important economic and port center, as well as the third most important city in the country.
photo credits: https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cowardlion
Falling in love with Osaka
Holder of unique charm, Osaka is a city that must necessarily fit into your wish list as it will make you fall in love in a short time!
A fundamental stop is the Osaka Castle, a place so loved during the Hanami period thanks to the 600 cherry trees that surround it. The castle built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi is considered one of the most important historical attractions in Japan!
If you love breathtaking views, the Umeda Sky Building will make you dream with its 360-degree view of the entire city. From its ultramodern observatory located 173 meters high, it is indeed possible to take breathtaking photos! In addition to Umeda you can devote yourself to shopping thanks to its spectacular shopping malls. Moreover, remaining in the theme, if you can not resist the shopping idea, you can go to Shinsaibashi. Shopping district par excellence, every tourist crosses the 600 meters of the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade with its numerous boutiques, retail stores, and luxurious department stores!
photo credits: gaijinpot.com
We said that Osaka is considered the "kitchen of Japan", for this reason, you should definitely visit Dotonbori. Glico Man (Glico is the name of the famous candy company that produces Pocky) will welcome you!
photo credits: favy-jp.com
This giant was installed in 1935 and has become the landmark of Dotonbori.
About 30 years later the mechanized crab of the Kani Doraku restaurant was built. This place serves all kinds of crab followed by Zuboraya and Kinryu Ramen, the most famous restaurants in the neighborhood.
photo credits: 123rf.com
If you love museums, you cannot give up the Naniwa Rekihaku, the Osaka History Museum. Housed in a building with ultra-modern features, its specialty is that the visit to the museum starts from the tenth floor, the last one! From ancient Japan, the various floors dedicated to the various historical periods of the city are discovered in descent. Finally, we arrive at the first floor where there are the inevitable souvenir shops.
In the Edo period, Osaka was also the capital of Bunraku. This is a form of theatrical performance characterized by the use of puppets that entertained both the nobility and the population. Bunraku shows are generally held in January, April, June, July, August, and November in specific weeks. Please check the information on the National Bunraku Theater shows here: https://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/bunraku.html
photo credits: japantravel.com
And if after all of this you feel like having fun, a visit to the most beloved park in Japan is a must! We are talking about Universal Studios Japan (ユニーサルスタジオジャパン). The park is divided into 9 thematic areas: Hollywood, Universal Wonderland, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Amity Village, Waterworld, Jurassic Park, San Francisco, Minion Park and New York. For all information and details, please refer to the official website also available in English: https://www.usj.co.jp/e/
photo credits: neverendingvoyage.com
Have we managed to intrigue you? Or have you already visited Osaka and fell in love with it? Tell us all your impressions! There is nothing more beautiful than memories to share a dream.[:ja]Let's continue the through among the prefectures and cities of Japan and today we take you to Osaka!
photo credits: easyviaggio.com
The ancient capital
During the Tokugawa period, from 683 to 745, Osaka (大阪) was the capital of Japan with the name of Naniwa (難波). However, during the Meiji era the capital was moved to Tokyo. Subsequently, Osaka became the center of land, sea and river transport thanks to the entrepreneurs who took command of industrial development. During the Second World War, the city was razed to the ground, but the great Japanese spirit did not allow its defeat. In fact, Osaka was rebuilt more prosperous than it ever had been.
Today Osaka is considered as "the cuisine of Japan". Moreover, it is an important economic and port center, as well as the third most important city in the country.
photo credits: https://www.shutterstock.com/g/cowardlion
Falling in love with Osaka
Holder of unique charm, Osaka is a city that must necessarily fit into your wish list as it will make you fall in love in a short time!
A fundamental stop is the Osaka Castle, a place so loved during the Hanami period thanks to the 600 cherry trees that surround it. The castle built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi is considered one of the most important historical attractions in Japan!
If you love breathtaking views, the Umeda Sky Building will make you dream with its 360-degree view of the entire city. From its ultramodern observatory located 173 meters high, it is indeed possible to take breathtaking photos! In addition to Umeda you can devote yourself to shopping thanks to its spectacular shopping malls. Moreover, remaining in the theme, if you can not resist the shopping idea, you can go to Shinsaibashi. Shopping district par excellence, every tourist crosses the 600 meters of the Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade with its numerous boutiques, retail stores, and luxurious department stores!
photo credits: gaijinpot.com
We said that Osaka is considered the "kitchen of Japan", for this reason, you should definitely visit Dotonbori. Glico Man (Glico is the name of the famous candy company that produces Pocky) will welcome you!
photo credits: favy-jp.com
This giant was installed in 1935 and has become the landmark of Dotonbori.
About 30 years later the mechanized crab of the Kani Doraku restaurant was built. This place serves all kinds of crab followed by Zuboraya and Kinryu Ramen, the most famous restaurants in the neighborhood.
photo credits: 123rf.com
If you love museums, you cannot give up the Naniwa Rekihaku, the Osaka History Museum. Housed in a building with ultra-modern features, its specialty is that the visit to the museum starts from the tenth floor, the last one! From ancient Japan, the various floors dedicated to the various historical periods of the city are discovered in descent. Finally, we arrive at the first floor where there are the inevitable souvenir shops.
In the Edo period, Osaka was also the capital of Bunraku. This is a form of theatrical performance characterized by the use of puppets that entertained both the nobility and the population. Bunraku shows are generally held in January, April, June, July, August, and November in specific weeks. Please check the information on the National Bunraku Theater shows here: https://www.ntj.jac.go.jp/bunraku.html
photo credits: japantravel.com
And if after all of this you feel like having fun, a visit to the most beloved park in Japan is a must! We are talking about Universal Studios Japan (ユニーサルスタジオジャパン). The park is divided into 9 thematic areas: Hollywood, Universal Wonderland, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Amity Village, Waterworld, Jurassic Park, San Francisco, Minion Park and New York. For all information and details, please refer to the official website also available in English: https://www.usj.co.jp/e/
photo credits: neverendingvoyage.com
Have we managed to intrigue you? Or have you already visited Osaka and fell in love with it? Tell us all your impressions! There is nothing more beautiful than memories to share a dream.[:]
[:it]Viaggio attraverso Kumamoto[:en]Journey through Kumamoto[:ja]Journey through Kumamoto[:]
[:it]Nella regione di Kyushu, circondata da montagne e con i suoi paesaggi creati dall’attività vulcanica del Monte Aso, sorge Kumamoto (熊本市).
photo credits: japantravel.com
Quando pensiamo a questa città, l’immediato riferimento è quello del pacioccone orso nero dalle gote rosse: Kumamon (くまモン). Vero e proprio simbolo della prefettura divenuto la sua stessa mascotte, Kumamon aiuta anche la promozione turistica in Giappone e all’estero con il “Kumamon Square”! (sito ufficiale in giapponese e in inglese: https://www.kumamon-sq.jp/en/)
photo credits: kyushuandtokyo.org
Le Origini
Durante il periodo Nara, Katou Kiyomasa fu nominato daimyō nel 1588 e fece costruire l’inespugnabile castello di Kumamoto attorno al quale il villaggio crebbe. Al clan Kiyomasa succedette quello di Hosokawa. Nel 1877 ex samurai di Satsuma si ribellarono al governo Meiji con la ribellione di Satsuma. Il Castello di Kumamoto rimase sotto assedio per 53 fra seccheggiamenti e incendi, anche la cittadina fu rasa al suolo. Una piccola curiosità, i fatti della ribellione di Satsuma sono narrati nel bellissimo film “L’ultimo samurai”.
Il nuovo assetto politico si ristabilì nel 1889 conferendo a Kumamoto il ruolo di importante centro economico e industriale di Kyushu. Grazie a questo ottenne il titolo di “città designata per ordinanza governativa” (政令指定都市) contando ben 5 quartieri al suo interno. I quartieri della città sono Kita-ku (北区) il quartiere nord, Nishi-ku (西区) il quartiere ovest, Chūō-ku (中央区) il centro cittadino, Higashi-ku (東区) il quartiere est e Minami-ku (南区) il quartiere sud.
Purtroppo un violento terremoto colpì la prefettura nel 2016 provocando ingentissimi danni, ma il grande spirito giapponese non ha permesso ai suoi abitanti di arrendersi ed oggi Kumamoto risplende ancora.
photo credits: zingarate.com
Esplorare Kumamoto
Durante gli anni ‘60 e ‘70, il castello subì una massiccia restaurazione tornando al suo antico splendore. Una tappa imperdibile è il giardino Suizen-ji Jōju-en costruito nel 1636 da Hosokawa Tadatoshi. Questo funge come luogo di ritiro per il tè grazie all’acqua purissima del laghetto. Al suo interno si trova il santuario di Izumi dove sono custoditi i membri della famiglia Hosokawa, un Nōgaku-dō e un teatro Noh. La casa da tè Kokin-Denju-no-Ma era originariamente nel Palazzo Imperiale di Kyoto, ma fu trasferita qui nel 1912. Il giardino è stato dichiarato dal governo nazionale un sito storico di bellezza paesaggistica.
photo Credits: sygic.com
Se amate i musei, una tappa obbligatoria è il Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art. A soli 500 metri dal castello ospita diverse sezioni dedicate all’arte moderna giapponese, europea e americana. Nel museo troviamo un’area in cui sono collezionati i corredi funerari ritrovati nei kofun (antichi tumuli funerari) e un’ultima parte dedicata ai reperti appartenenti alla città. Kumamoto è spettacolare anche grazie ai suoi paesaggi. Infatti, uno dei luoghi più magici dal quale godere viste mozzafiato sull’intera prefettura è il parco Hanaokayama Koen. Nella zona sud della città si trova invece il Lago Ezu. Questo specchio d’acqua è circondato da un’immensa oasi naturale in cui passeggiare, pescare, fare un giro sulle caratteristiche barchette giapponesi a noleggio, o fare birdwatching. Restando in tema di natura, è interessante visitare il Kumamoto City Zoological Garden. Qui troviamo 124 specie diverse di animali, bellissimi giardini botanici e un piccolo luna park.
photo Credits: zoosinjapan.blogspot.com
C’è un luogo, però, che più di tutti, vale la pena di visitare: la grotta Reigando (霊巌洞). Sacra e misteriosa, questa grotta sorge ai piedi del Monte Kinpo. Questo luogo ha raggiungo la fama soprattutto perchè qui il filosofo Musashi Miyamoto compose il trattato sulle arti marziali “Go Rin No Sho” (The Book of Five Rings. Ma non solo, è qui che nel corso dei secoli, monaci, poeti e guerrieri si sono recati per meditare.
photo Credits: kumamoto-guide.jp
Per raggiungere Reigando è necessario attraversare il tempio buddista zen di Unganzenji. Il percorso consta di una ripida scala in pietra ai cui lati si snodano 500 uniche statue degli illuminati seguaci di Buddha. Alla fine del sentiero si apre l’entrata della grotta che si affaccia sulla foresta. Nella parte posteriore della grotta è custodita la dea a quattro facce Iwato Kanon. Si dice che la statua si sia misteriosamente lavata nella grotta 1000 anni fa dopo che la nave che la trasportava affondò.
photo Credits: japanshoreexcursions.com
Spirituale e rilassante, Kumamoto sa regalare davvero tanto ai suoi visitatori e merita assolutamente di essere visitata ed amata, come ogni città del Giappone.[:en]In the Kyushu region stands Kumamoto (本市), surrounded by mountains and with its landscapes created by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso.
photo credits: japantravel.com
When we think of this city, the immediate reference is that of the black bear with red cheeks: Kumamon (くまモン). A true symbol of the prefecture that has become its own mascot, Kumamon also helps promote tourism in Japan and abroad with the "Kumamon Square"! (official website in Japanese and English: https://www.kumamon-sq.jp/en/)
photo credits: kyushuandtokyo.org
The origins
During the Nara period, Katou Kiyomasa was named daimyō in 1588 and built the impregnable Kumamoto castle around which the village grew. The Kiyomasa clan was succeeded by Hosokawa's. In 1877, former Satsuma samurai rebelled against the Meiji government with the Satsuma rebellion. The Castle of Kumamoto remained under siege for 53 days between drying out and fires, even the town was razed to the ground. A little curiosity, the facts of the Satsuma rebellion are narrated in the beautiful film "The last samurai".
The new political order was re-established in 1889, giving Kumamoto the role of an important economic and industrial centre of Kyushu. Thanks to this it obtained the title of "city designated by government ordinance" (政令指定都市) counting as many as 5 neighbourhoods within it. The districts of the city are Kita-Ku (北区) the northern district, Nishi-Ku (西区) the west district, Chūō-Ku (中央区) the city centre, Higashi-Ku (東区) the east district and Minami-Ku (南区) the southern district.
Unfortunately a violent earthquake struck the prefecture in 2016 causing enormous damage, but the great Japanese spirit did not allow its inhabitants to surrender and today Kumamoto is still shining.
photo credits: zingarate.com
Explore Kumamoto
During the 60s and 70s, the castle underwent a massive restoration returning to its former glory. An unmissable stop is the Suizen-Ji Jōju-en garden built in 1636 by Hosokawa Tadatoshi. This serves as a retreat for tea thanks to the pure water of the pond. Inside there is the sanctuary of Izumi where members of the Hosokawa family are kept, a Nōgaku-dō and a Noh theatre. The Kokin-Denju-no-Ma teahouse was originally in the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but was moved here in 1912. The garden was declared a historic site of scenic beauty by the national government.
photo Credits: sygic.com
If you love museums, a must is the Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art. Just 500 meters from the castle, it houses several sections dedicated to modern Japanese, European and American art. In the museum, we find an area where the funerary objects found in the kofun (ancient burial mounds) and a last part dedicated to the finds belonging to the city are collected. Kumamoto is spectacular also thanks to its landscapes. In fact, one of the most magical places from which to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire prefecture is the Hanaokayama Koen park. Lake Ezu is located in the south of the city. This stretch of water is surrounded by an immense natural oasis in which to walk, fish, take a ride on the characteristic Japanese boats for hire, or do birdwatching. Staying with nature, it is interesting to visit the Kumamoto City Zoological Garden. Here we find 124 different species of animals, beautiful botanical gardens and a small funfair.
photo Credits: zoosinjapan.blogspot.com
There is a place that it is worth visiting: the Reigando cave (霊巌洞). Sacred and mysterious, this cave rises at the foot of Mount Kinpo. This place has achieved fame mainly because here the philosopher Musashi Miyamoto composed the treatise on martial arts "Go Rin No Sho" (The Book of Five Rings. But not only that, it is here that over the centuries, monks, poets and warriors they went to meditate.
photo Credits: kumamoto-guide.jp
To reach Reigando it is necessary to cross the Zen Buddhist temple of Unganzenji. The path consists of a steep stone staircase to the sides of which 500 unique statues of the enlightened followers of Buddha unfold. At the end of the path opens the entrance to the cave that overlooks the forest. At the back of the cave is the four-faced goddess Iwato Kanon. It is said that the statue was mysteriously washed in the cave 1000 years ago after the ship that transported it sank.
photo Credits: japanshoreexcursions.com
Spiritual and relaxing, Kumamoto can really give its visitors a lot and absolutely deserves to be visited and loved, like every city in Japan.[:ja]In the Kyushu region stands Kumamoto (本市), surrounded by mountains and with its landscapes created by the volcanic activity of Mount Aso.
photo credits: japantravel.com
When we think of this city, the immediate reference is that of the black bear with red cheeks: Kumamon (くまモン). A true symbol of the prefecture that has become its own mascot, Kumamon also helps promote tourism in Japan and abroad with the "Kumamon Square"! (official website in Japanese and English: https://www.kumamon-sq.jp/en/)
photo credits: kyushuandtokyo.org
The origins
During the Nara period, Katou Kiyomasa was named daimyō in 1588 and built the impregnable Kumamoto castle around which the village grew. The Kiyomasa clan was succeeded by Hosokawa's. In 1877, former Satsuma samurai rebelled against the Meiji government with the Satsuma rebellion. The Castle of Kumamoto remained under siege for 53 days between drying out and fires, even the town was razed to the ground. A little curiosity, the facts of the Satsuma rebellion are narrated in the beautiful film "The last samurai".
The new political order was re-established in 1889, giving Kumamoto the role of an important economic and industrial centre of Kyushu. Thanks to this it obtained the title of "city designated by government ordinance" (政令指定都市) counting as many as 5 neighbourhoods within it. The districts of the city are Kita-Ku (北区) the northern district, Nishi-Ku (西区) the west district, Chūō-Ku (中央区) the city centre, Higashi-Ku (東区) the east district and Minami-Ku (南区) the southern district.
Unfortunately a violent earthquake struck the prefecture in 2016 causing enormous damage, but the great Japanese spirit did not allow its inhabitants to surrender and today Kumamoto is still shining.
photo credits: zingarate.com
Explore Kumamoto
During the 60s and 70s, the castle underwent a massive restoration returning to its former glory. An unmissable stop is the Suizen-Ji Jōju-en garden built in 1636 by Hosokawa Tadatoshi. This serves as a retreat for tea thanks to the pure water of the pond. Inside there is the sanctuary of Izumi where members of the Hosokawa family are kept, a Nōgaku-dō and a Noh theatre. The Kokin-Denju-no-Ma teahouse was originally in the Kyoto Imperial Palace, but was moved here in 1912. The garden was declared a historic site of scenic beauty by the national government.
photo Credits: sygic.com
If you love museums, a must is the Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art. Just 500 meters from the castle, it houses several sections dedicated to modern Japanese, European and American art. In the museum, we find an area where the funerary objects found in the kofun (ancient burial mounds) and a last part dedicated to the finds belonging to the city are collected. Kumamoto is spectacular also thanks to its landscapes. In fact, one of the most magical places from which to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire prefecture is the Hanaokayama Koen park. Lake Ezu is located in the south of the city. This stretch of water is surrounded by an immense natural oasis in which to walk, fish, take a ride on the characteristic Japanese boats for hire, or do birdwatching. Staying with nature, it is interesting to visit the Kumamoto City Zoological Garden. Here we find 124 different species of animals, beautiful botanical gardens and a small funfair.
photo Credits: zoosinjapan.blogspot.com
There is a place that it is worth visiting: the Reigando cave (霊巌洞). Sacred and mysterious, this cave rises at the foot of Mount Kinpo. This place has achieved fame mainly because here the philosopher Musashi Miyamoto composed the treatise on martial arts "Go Rin No Sho" (The Book of Five Rings. But not only that, it is here that over the centuries, monks, poets and warriors they went to meditate.
photo Credits: kumamoto-guide.jp
To reach Reigando it is necessary to cross the Zen Buddhist temple of Unganzenji. The path consists of a steep stone staircase to the sides of which 500 unique statues of the enlightened followers of Buddha unfold. At the end of the path opens the entrance to the cave that overlooks the forest. At the back of the cave is the four-faced goddess Iwato Kanon. It is said that the statue was mysteriously washed in the cave 1000 years ago after the ship that transported it sank.
photo Credits: japanshoreexcursions.com
Spiritual and relaxing, Kumamoto can really give its visitors a lot and absolutely deserves to be visited and loved, like every city in Japan.[:]
[:it]Shichi-Go-San / Sette-Cinque-Tre[:en]Shichi-Go-San / Seven-Five-Three[:ja]Shichi-Go-San / Seven-Five-Three[:]
[:it]In Giappone il 15 novembre è il giorno di Shichi-Go-San (七五三, 7-5-3). Questo festival che celebra il rito di passaggio delle bambine di 3 e 7 anni e i bambini di 3 e 5 anni. Nella numerologia Giapponese questi numeri sono ritenuti particolarmente fortunati, come tutti i numeri dispari.
photo credits: cacadoresdelendas.com.br
Shichi-Go-San è il frutto di 3 tradizioni sviluppatesi nel periodo Heian, dapprima tra i nobili di corte i quali celebravano il passaggio dei loro figli alla “media infanzia”, successivamente nella classe Samurai segnando i passi importanti nella crescita. Fino a 3 anni il bambino doveva portare i capelli rasati, da questa età in su era loro concesso di portarli un po’ più lunghi. I maschi di cinque anni potevano indossare la hakama (袴, un indumento tradizionale che somiglia ad una larga gonna-pantalone lunga fino alle caviglie e legata alla vita) per la prima volta. Le bambine di sette anni invece, sostituivano le corde semplici usate per legare il proprio kimono con la tradizionale obi (帯, la tradizionale cintura di seta).
A partire dal periodo Meiji, la pratica fu adottata anche dai cittadini comuni introducendo la rituale visita un santuario shintoista per allontanare gli spiriti maligni e augurare ai propri bambini una vita lunga e prospera.
Shichi-Go-San e i sottili cambiamenti dell’era moderna
photo credits: amu-zen.com
Come la maggior parte delle tradizioni giapponesi, anche lo Shichi-Go-San mantiene quasi totalmente intatti i rituali del periodo Meiji. L’unica cosa caduta in disuso è la regola dei capelli. I bambini di cinque anni e le bambine di sette anni indossano ancora il kimono colorato per le visite ai santuari. Le bambine di tre anni solitamente indossano lo hifu (una veste simile ad un panciotto leggermente imbottito) insieme al proprio kimono. Alcuni bambini indossano abiti più vicini alle mode formali dell’occidente.
Oggi si scattano anche parecchie fotografie in questa occasione.
Ogni festeggiato, nel giorno dello Shichi-Go-San ruceve una busta decorata con all’interno le dolci Chitose ame (千歳飴), “la caramella dei mille anni”. Avvolte in carta di riso commestibile trasparente, queste caramelle ha forma di bastoncino, tradizionalmente di colore rosso e bianco sono simbolo di longevità.[:en]November 15th is the day of Shichi-Go-San (七五 三, 7-5-3). This festival celebrates the rite of passage for girls aged 3 and 7 and children aged 3 and 5. These numbers are considered particularly lucky, like all odd numbers.
photo credits: cacadoresdelendas.com.br
Shichi-Go-San is the culmination of three traditions developed in the Heian period. The celebration first started among the court nobles who celebrated the passage of their children to "average childhood". It was then adopted by the Samurai class to mark the important growth milestones.
Up to 3 years of age, a child will have shaved hair. After the age of 3, they would then be allowed to grow their hair a little longer. 5-year-old males could wear the hakama (袴, a traditional garment that resembles a wide skirt-pants up to the ankles and tied to the waist) for the first time, while the seven-year-old girls replaced the simple cords, used to tie their kimonos, with the traditional obi (帯, the traditional silk belt). After the Meiji period, this practice was also adopted by ordinary citizens, introducing the ritual visit to a Shinto shrine to remove evil spirits and wish their children a long and prosperous life.
Shichi-Go-San and the subtle changes in the modern era
photo credits: amu-zen.com
Like most Japanese traditions, Shichi-Go-San keeps the rituals of the Meiji period almost completely intact. The only aspect falling into disuse is the hair rule. Five-year-old boys and seven-year-old girls still wear colourful kimono for visits to shrines.
The three-year-old girls usually wear the hifu (a dress similar to a slightly padded waistcoat) along with their kimono. Some children wear clothes closer to western fashion. Today many photos are taken in this occasion.
A decorated envelope containing sweet Chitose ame (千歳飴) will be given to each boy and girl celebrating the Shichi-Go-San day. The name ‘Chitose ame’ means “the candy of a thousand years". It is wrapped in transparent edible rice paper and is shaped like a long thin stick. Traditionally red and white, it serves as a symbol of longevity.[:ja]November 15th is the day of Shichi-Go-San (七五 三, 7-5-3). This festival celebrates the rite of passage for girls aged 3 and 7 and children aged 3 and 5. These numbers are considered particularly lucky, like all odd numbers.
photo credits: cacadoresdelendas.com.br
Shichi-Go-San is the culmination of three traditions developed in the Heian period. The celebration first started among the court nobles who celebrated the passage of their children to "average childhood". It was then adopted by the Samurai class to mark the important growth milestones.
Up to 3 years of age, a child will have shaved hair. After the age of 3, they would then be allowed to grow their hair a little longer. 5-year-old males could wear the hakama (袴, a traditional garment that resembles a wide skirt-pants up to the ankles and tied to the waist) for the first time, while the seven-year-old girls replaced the simple cords, used to tie their kimonos, with the traditional obi (帯, the traditional silk belt). After the Meiji period, this practice was also adopted by ordinary citizens, introducing the ritual visit to a Shinto shrine to remove evil spirits and wish their children a long and prosperous life.
Shichi-Go-San and the subtle changes in the modern era
photo credits: amu-zen.com
Like most Japanese traditions, Shichi-Go-San keeps the rituals of the Meiji period almost completely intact. The only aspect falling into disuse is the hair rule. Five-year-old boys and seven-year-old girls still wear colourful kimono for visits to shrines.
The three-year-old girls usually wear the hifu (a dress similar to a slightly padded waistcoat) along with their kimono. Some children wear clothes closer to western fashion. Today many photos are taken in this occasion.
A decorated envelope containing sweet Chitose ame (千歳飴) will be given to each boy and girl celebrating the Shichi-Go-San day. The name ‘Chitose ame’ means “the candy of a thousand years". It is wrapped in transparent edible rice paper and is shaped like a long thin stick. Traditionally red and white, it serves as a symbol of longevity.[:]
[:it]Bushido: etica e condotta, la via del Samurai[:en]Bushido: ethics and conduct, the way of the Samurai[:ja]Bushido: ethics and conduct, the way of the Samurai[:]
[:it]Tra il periodo dello shogunato di Kamakura (1185) e il Periodo Muromachi (1336) prese forma il codice di condotta morale conosciuto come Bushido, (武士道, via del guerriero). Formalmente adottato e applicato dai “bushi”, i guerrieri (Samurai) nel Periodo Tokugawa (1603-1867), questo codice di condotta altro non è che un riadattamento dei principi del buddismo e confucianesimo. Originariamente riadattato alla casta dei guerrieri, dopo la Restaurazione Meiji (1866-1869), il movimento nazionalista giapponese adottò il Bushido come disciplina di comportamento.
photo credits: camminospirituale.com
I 7 principi del Bushido: 7 passi verso la perfezione
Onestà, giustizia, pietà, dovere, onore e lealtà questi erano i princimi che dovevano essere perseguiti fino alla morte. Qualora questo non venisse seguito, la pena era il disonore da espiare attraverso il seppuku (切腹) o harakiri (腹切り). Entrambi questi termini indicano il rituale del suicidio in modo onorevole attraverso il taglio del ventre. Harakiri è utilizzato nel parlato, mentre seppuku è più utilizzato nella forma scritta.
Ogni Samurai era quindi tenuto a seguire 7 principi fondamentali che potremo definire come “morale perfetta”.
Addentriamoci in essi e scopriamoli insieme:
義, Gi: Onestà e Giustizia
Non esistono vie di mezzo, esiste solo il giusto o lo sbagliato. E’ necessario essere onesti nei rapporti con gli altri, credere fermamente nella giustizia che proviene da se stessi, non dalle altre persone. Il vero Samurai non ha mai incertezze riguardo all’onestà e alla giustizia
勇, Yu: Eroico Coraggio
L’eroico coraggio del Samurai si eleva sopra alla masse. Un guerriero non ha paura di agire, non si nasconde nel guscio come una tartaruga, nonostante il rischio ed il pericolo. Eroico coraggio significa vivere in modo completo, pieno, meraviglioso, esso non è cieco ma forte e intelligente.
仁, Jin: Compassione
L'intenso addestramento rende il samurai svelto e forte. È diverso dagli altri, egli acquisisce un potere che deve essere utilizzato per il bene comune. Possiede compassione, coglie ogni opportunità di essere d'aiuto ai propri simili e se l'opportunità non si presenta egli fa di tutto per trovarne una. La compassione di un Samurai va dimostrata soprattutto nei riguardi delle donne e dei bambini
礼, Rei: Gentile Cortesia
I Samurai non hanno motivi per comportarsi in maniera crudele, non hanno bisogno di mostrare la propria forza. Un Samurai è gentile anche con i nemici. Senza tale dimostrazione di rispetto esteriore un uomo è poco più di un animale. Il Samurai è rispettato non solo per la sua forza in battaglia ma anche per come interagisce con gli altri uomini. Il miglior combattimento è quello evitato.
誠, Makoto: Completa Sincerità
Quando un Samurai esprime l'intenzione di compiere un'azione, questa è praticamente già compiuta, nulla gli impedirà di portare a termine l'intenzione espressa. Egli non ha bisogno né di dare la parola né di promettere. Parlare e agire sono la medesima cosa.
名誉, Meiyo: Onore
Il Samurai è il solo giudice del proprio onore. Le decisioni che si prendono e le azioni che ne conseguono sono un riflesso di ciò che si è in realtà. Non ci si può nascondere da te stessi.
忠義, Chugi: Dovere e Lealtà
Per il Samurai compiere un'azione o esprimere qualcosa equivale a diventarne proprietario. Egli ne assume la piena responsabilità, anche per ciò che ne consegue. Il Samurai è immensamente leale verso coloro di cui si prende cura. Egli resta fieramente fedele a coloro di cui è responsabile.
Da diversi anni io stessa ho adottato queste 7 virtù come percorso da seguire. Trovo siano essenziali nella vita di ciascuno perchè siamo tutti dei guerrieri. Ogni giorno affrontiamo sfide e ogni giorno dobbiamo puntare a quella perfezione spirituale che, se fosse perseguita fino in fondo, condurrebbe ad un mondo migliore.
Voi siete pronti a compiere questi passi?[:en]Between the period of the Kamakura shogunate (1185) and the Muromachi period (1336) the code of moral conduct known as Bushido took shape (武士道, the path of the warrior). Formally adopted and applied by the "bushi", the warriors (Samurai) in the Tokugawa Period (1603-1867), this code of conduct is a re-adaptation of the principles of Buddhism and Confucianism. Originally adapted to the warrior caste, after the Meiji Restoration (1866-1869), the Japanese nationalist movement adopted by Bushido as a discipline of behavior.
photo credits: camminospirituale.com
The 7 principles of Bushido: 7 steps towards perfection
Honesty, justice, piety, duty, honour, and loyalty were the principles that had to be pursued until death. If this were not followed, the penalty was the dishonour to be expiated through the seppuku (切腹) or harakiri (切り). Both of these terms indicate the ritual of honourable suicide through the cutting of the belly. Harakiri is used in speech, while seppuku is most used in writing.
Each Samurai was therefore required to follow 7 fundamental principles that we can define as "perfect morality".
Let's go into them and discover them together:
義, Gi: Honesty and Justice
There are no middle ways, there is only the right or the wrong. It is necessary to be honest in dealing with others, to believe firmly in the justice that comes from oneself, not from other people. The true Samurai never has uncertainties about honesty and justice
勇, Yu: Heroic Courage
The heroic courage of the Samurai rises above the masses. A warrior is not afraid to act, he does not hide in the shell like a turtle, despite the risk and danger. Heroic courage means to live completely, fully, wonderfully, it is not blind but strong and intelligent.
仁, Jin: Compassion
The intense training makes the samurai quick and strong. He is different from the others, he acquires a power that must be used for the common good. He possesses compassion, takes every opportunity to be helpful to his fellows and if the opportunity does not arise he does everything to find one. The compassion of a Samurai must be demonstrated above all in regard to women and children
礼, Rei: Kind Courtesy
The Samurai have no reason to behave in a cruel way, they don't need to show their strength. A Samurai is also kind to enemies. Without this demonstration of external respect, a man is little more than an animal. The Samurai is respected not only for his strength in battle but also for how he interacts with other men. The best fight is the one who is avoided.
誠, Makoto: Complete Sincerity
When a Samurai expresses the intention to perform an action, this is practically already accomplished, nothing will prevent him from completing the express intention. He needs neither to give the word nor to promise. Speaking and acting are the same thing.
名誉, Meiyo: Honor
The Samurai is the only judge of his honour. The decisions you make and the actions that follow are a reflection of what you actually are. You can't hide from yourself.
忠義, Chugi: Duty and Loyalty
For the Samurai to perform an action or to express something is to become its owner. He assumes full responsibility, even for what follows. The Samurai is immensely loyal to those he cares about. He remains proudly faithful to those for whom he is responsible.
For several years I myself have adopted these 7 virtues as a path to follow. I find them essential in everyone's life because we are all warriors. Every day we face challenges and every day we must aim for that spiritual perfection that, if pursued to the end, would lead to a better world.
Are you ready to take these steps?[:ja]Between the period of the Kamakura shogunate (1185) and the Muromachi period (1336) the code of moral conduct known as Bushido took shape (武士道, the path of the warrior). Formally adopted and applied by the "bushi", the warriors (Samurai) in the Tokugawa Period (1603-1867), this code of conduct is a re-adaptation of the principles of Buddhism and Confucianism. Originally adapted to the warrior caste, after the Meiji Restoration (1866-1869), the Japanese nationalist movement adopted by Bushido as a discipline of behavior.
photo credits: camminospirituale.com
The 7 principles of Bushido: 7 steps towards perfection
Honesty, justice, piety, duty, honour, and loyalty were the principles that had to be pursued until death. If this were not followed, the penalty was the dishonour to be expiated through the seppuku (切腹) or harakiri (切り). Both of these terms indicate the ritual of honourable suicide through the cutting of the belly. Harakiri is used in speech, while seppuku is most used in writing.
Each Samurai was therefore required to follow 7 fundamental principles that we can define as "perfect morality".
Let's go into them and discover them together:
義, Gi: Honesty and Justice
There are no middle ways, there is only the right or the wrong. It is necessary to be honest in dealing with others, to believe firmly in the justice that comes from oneself, not from other people. The true Samurai never has uncertainties about honesty and justice
勇, Yu: Heroic Courage
The heroic courage of the Samurai rises above the masses. A warrior is not afraid to act, he does not hide in the shell like a turtle, despite the risk and danger. Heroic courage means to live completely, fully, wonderfully, it is not blind but strong and intelligent.
仁, Jin: Compassion
The intense training makes the samurai quick and strong. He is different from the others, he acquires a power that must be used for the common good. He possesses compassion, takes every opportunity to be helpful to his fellows and if the opportunity does not arise he does everything to find one. The compassion of a Samurai must be demonstrated above all in regard to women and children
礼, Rei: Kind Courtesy
The Samurai have no reason to behave in a cruel way, they don't need to show their strength. A Samurai is also kind to enemies. Without this demonstration of external respect, a man is little more than an animal. The Samurai is respected not only for his strength in battle but also for how he interacts with other men. The best fight is the one who is avoided.
誠, Makoto: Complete Sincerity
When a Samurai expresses the intention to perform an action, this is practically already accomplished, nothing will prevent him from completing the express intention. He needs neither to give the word nor to promise. Speaking and acting are the same thing.
名誉, Meiyo: Honor
The Samurai is the only judge of his honour. The decisions you make and the actions that follow are a reflection of what you actually are. You can't hide from yourself.
忠義, Chugi: Duty and Loyalty
For the Samurai to perform an action or to express something is to become its owner. He assumes full responsibility, even for what follows. The Samurai is immensely loyal to those he cares about. He remains proudly faithful to those for whom he is responsible.
For several years I myself have adopted these 7 virtues as a path to follow. I find them essential in everyone's life because we are all warriors. Every day we face challenges and every day we must aim for that spiritual perfection that, if pursued to the end, would lead to a better world.
Are you ready to take these steps?[:]
Travel guide: Tokyo - Episode 01
[:it]Riuscireste mai a immaginare Tokyo come un modesto villaggio di pescatori? Probabilmente no, eppure - come moltissime altre città nel mondo - l'atmosfera che si respirava nel periodo Edo era tranquilla e molto lontana dall'odierna frenesia. Fu solo quando l'imperatore si trasferì da Kyoto a Tokyo, dopo il 1868, che la città cambiò radicalmente la sua identità.
photo credits: visa.com.au
Oggi Tokyo, divisa in 23 quartieri, è la megalopoli più grande al mondo, un agglomerato di città, luci e colori fusi insieme che continuano a stupire i visitatori. Passeggiare per la capitale è un’esperienza quasi ultraterrena. Dalle affollatissime strade potreste voltare l’angolo e trovarvi improvvisamente in un’oasi di serenità perchè in prossimità di qualche santuario o tempio shintoista. O ancora, decidere di avventurarvi a fare shopping in negozi che vendono cose strane e meravigliose, o prendere la metro (o il treno) e raggiungere posti incredibili!
Nel nostro blog troverete tantissimi focus sui quartieri di Tokyo, quello che vogliamo suggerirvi oggi invece sono quelle attività insolite, uniche e stravaganti che, per chi visita la città per la prima volta, potrebbero trasformarsi in esperienze indimenticabili!
Ammirare Tokyo nella sua vastità
photo credits: lonelyplanet.com
Una visita all’osservatorio del Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, una capatina al Tokyo Skytree o alla Tokyo Tower, oppure recarsi a Roppongi Hills per un panorama mozzafiato da godere dal Tokyo City View si rende necessario. lo scenario unico e incredibile della città vi farà male al cuore perchè tornare indietro sarà difficile, molto difficile!
I Pet Cafè e i Cafè tematici
photo credits: ddnews.gov.in
Abbiamo già parlato dei cafè tematici, luoghi incantati in cui tornare bambini e sognare un po’, ma abbiamo parlato molto poco dei Pet Cafè. In Giappone sono diffusissimi e a Tokyo ce ne sono davvero tanti. Il concept è quello di un locale dalle luci soft in cui rilassarsi coccolando un animale: gatti, cani, gufi, serpenti e persino ricci!
Fare shopping compulsivo da Daiso!
photo credits: planetyze.com
Esattamente, shopping compulsivo, infatti Daiso offre 5 piani di articoli di ogni tipo e tutto a 100 Yen! Un enorme Daiso si trova a Takeshita Street,un luogo pieno di altri piccoli negozi deliziosi, e molti altri sono sparsi in giro per la città.
Immergersi nel verde a Tokyo
photo credits: blogdiviaggi.com
A Tokyo non mancano parchi stupendi. Ne parleremo approfonditamente nel secondo episodio della nostra travel guide su Tokyo, ma rientra assolutamente in una delle cose da fare mentre passeggiate per la città! I ciliegi in primavera e i momiji (gli aceri rossi giapponesi) in autunno vi regaleranno momenti di puro relax, perciò indispensabile è una tappa ad ognuno dei parchi di della città. Assolutamente imperdibili!
Tornei di Sumo
photo credits: japanistry.com
Se visitate la città nei periodi in cui si svolgono i tornei (solitamente gennaio, maggio e settembre) dovreste regalarvi l’esperienza di assistere alle sessioni di combattimento dello sport nazionale giapponese a Ryugoku! Per i giapponesi infatti, il Sumo non si tratta solo di sport, ma di una vera e propria forma d’arte imperdibile.
Tokyo e i musei
photo credits: jrailpass.com
Come ogni città che si rispetti, anche Tokyo offre dei musei, ma in questo caso assumono una caratteristica ancora più speciale perchè ne esistono davvero di tanti tipi. Dallo storico Museo Nazionale di Tokyo a Ueno, all’Edo-Tokyo Museum a Ryugoku, il Ghibli Museum per gli amanti dello Studio Ghibli oppure il bizzarro Museo dei Parassiti a Meguro!
Golden Gai
photo credits: theculturetrip.com
Il Golden Gai è una piccola area di Kabukicho a Shinjuku, famosa per la sua rete di vicoli stretti che sono collegati tra di loro da ancora più stretti passaggi. Lungo queste stradine si trovano più di 200 minuscoli bar, club e ristoranti assolutamente unici e caratteristici.
Viaggiare sulla Yurikamome-line
photo credits: wow-j.com
La Yurikamome-line è la linea ferroviaria i cui treni sono senza conducente e sfrecciano tra i grattacieli della città! Assolutamente da provare quando il sole cala e le luci della città si accendono…
Izakaya
photo credits: jamesmagazine.it
L’Izakaya è un tipico locale giapponese in cui vengono serviti cibi per accompagnare una vastissima quantità di alcolici. Solitamente sono luoghi frequentati dai colleghi di un’azienda che, dopo una lunga giornata di lavoro, si regalano una pausa per parlare di un po’ di tutto.
Sashimi per colazione al mercato ittico di Toyosu
photo credits: travel.sygic.com
Quante volte ci è capitato di mangiare del sashimi o del sushi e dire “wow, questo sì che è davvero buono e fresco!”? Beh… probabilmente non abbiamo ancora idea di cosa significhi fresco e buono!!!
photo credits: corriere.it
Questi sono solamente 10 punti a cui abbiamo pensato, ma in realtà ci sono davvero un milione di cose da fare a Tokyo. Ad esempio potete assaggiare tutto ciò che esiste al tè verde, andare in un onsen, attraversare l’incrocio di Shibuya, partecipare all’Hanami, pregare in un tempio, ammirare il monte Fuji. Per non dimenticare ancora, Ginza, Shinjuku, Kanagawa, Saitama, Odaiba… Tokyo non è una città, ma un sogno meraviglioso![:en]Can you ever imagine Tokyo as a modest fishing village? Probably not. Like so many other cities in the world - the atmosphere that was breathed in the Edo period was quiet and very far from today's frenzy. It was only when the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, after 1868, that the city radically changed his identity.
photo credits: visa.com.au
Today Tokyo, with its 23 districts, is the largest megalopolis in the world, a conglomeration of cities, lights and colors fused together that continue to amaze visitors.
Walking around the capital is an almost otherworldly experience. From the very crowded streets, you could turn the corner and find yourself suddenly in an oasis of serenity near some shrine or Shinto temple. Or, decide to venture out shopping in stores that sell strange and wonderful things, or take the subway (or train) and reach incredible places!
In our blog, you will find many articles that focus on Tokyo neighborhoods. However, what we want to suggest to you today are those unusual, unique and extravagant activities that, for those visiting the city for the first time, could turn into unforgettable experiences!
Admire Tokyo in its vastness
photo credits: lonelyplanet.com
A visit to the observatory of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, a visit to the Tokyo Skytree or the Tokyo Tower, or going to Roppongi Hills at Tokyo City View becomes necessary to enjoy a breathtaking view. The unique and incredible scenery of the city will hurt your heart because going back will be difficult, very difficult!
The Pet Cafés and the thematic Cafes
photo credits: ddnews.gov.in
We have already talked about thematic cafés before, enchanted places where we can become children again and dream a little. However, we talked very little about Pet Cafes. In Japan they are very popular and Tokyo is full of these cute cafes. The concept is that of a place with soft lights in which to relax, pampering an animal: cats, dogs, owls, snakes and even hedgehogs!
Compulsive shopping at Daiso!
photo credits: planetyze.com
Exactly, compulsive shopping. In fact, Daiso offers 5 stories of articles of all kinds and all sold only for 100 Yen! Furthermore, the biggest Daiso is located in Takeshita Street and some others are scattered all around town.
Plunge into the green in Tokyo
photo credits: blogdiviaggi.com
There is no shortage of beautiful parks in Tokyo. We'll talk about it in-depth in the second episode of our travel guide on Tokyo, but it is absolutely one of the things to do while walking around the city! Cherry trees in spring and momiji (Japanese red maples) will give you moments of pure relaxation in autumn, so a stop at each of the city's parks is essential. Absolutely not to be missed!
Sumo Tournaments
photo credits: japanistry.com
If you visit the city during tournaments (usually January, May and September) you should give yourself the experience of attending the Japanese national sport combat sessions at Ryugoku! For the Japanese, in fact, Sumo is not just about sports, but about a real unmissable form of art.
Tokyo Museums
photo credits: jrailpass.com
Like any self-respecting city, Tokyo also offers museums, but in this case, they take on an even more special feature because there are so many types of them. From the historic Tokyo National Museum at Ueno, to the Edo-Tokyo Museum to Ryugoku, and the Ghibli Museum for Studio Ghibli lovers or the bizarre Museum of Parasites in Meguro!
Golden Gai
photo credits: theculturetrip.com
The Golden Gai is a small area of Kabukicho in Shinjuku, famous for its network of narrow alleys that are connected by even closer passages. Along these narrow streets, there are more than 200 tiny bars, clubs and restaurants that are absolutely unique and characteristic.
Travel on the Yurikamome-line
photo credits: wow-j.com
The Yurikamome-line is the railway line whose trains are driverless and speed through the skyscrapers of the city! A must-try when the sun goes down and the city lights come on...
Izakaya
photo credits: jamesmagazine.it
Izakaya is a typical Japanese restaurant where food is served to accompany a vast amount of alcohol. Usually they are places frequented by colleagues from a company who, after a long day of work, give themselves a break to talk about a bit of everything.
Sashimi for breakfast at the Toyosu fish market
photo credits: travel.sygic.com
How many times have we eat sashimi or sushi and say "wow, this is really good and fresh!" Well... we probably still have no idea what fresh and good means!!!
photo credits: corriere.it
These are only 10 points we thought of, but in reality, there are really a million things to do in Tokyo. For example, you can taste everything that exists with green tea, go to an onsen, cross the Shibuya intersection, participate in Hanami, pray in a temple, admire Mount Fuji. To not forget yet, Ginza, Shinjuku, Kanagawa, Saitama, Odaiba... Tokyo is not a city, but a wonderful dream![:ja]Can you ever imagine Tokyo as a modest fishing village? Probably not. Like so many other cities in the world - the atmosphere that was breathed in the Edo period was quiet and very far from today's frenzy. It was only when the emperor moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, after 1868, that the city radically changed his identity.
photo credits: visa.com.au
Today Tokyo, with its 23 districts, is the largest megalopolis in the world, a conglomeration of cities, lights and colors fused together that continue to amaze visitors.
Walking around the capital is an almost otherworldly experience. From the very crowded streets, you could turn the corner and find yourself suddenly in an oasis of serenity near some shrine or Shinto temple. Or, decide to venture out shopping in stores that sell strange and wonderful things, or take the subway (or train) and reach incredible places!
In our blog, you will find many articles that focus on Tokyo neighborhoods. However, what we want to suggest to you today are those unusual, unique and extravagant activities that, for those visiting the city for the first time, could turn into unforgettable experiences!
Admire Tokyo in its vastness
photo credits: lonelyplanet.com
A visit to the observatory of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office, a visit to the Tokyo Skytree or the Tokyo Tower, or going to Roppongi Hills at Tokyo City View becomes necessary to enjoy a breathtaking view. The unique and incredible scenery of the city will hurt your heart because going back will be difficult, very difficult!
The Pet Cafés and the thematic Cafes
photo credits: ddnews.gov.in
We have already talked about thematic cafés before, enchanted places where we can become children again and dream a little. However, we talked very little about Pet Cafes. In Japan they are very popular and Tokyo is full of these cute cafes. The concept is that of a place with soft lights in which to relax, pampering an animal: cats, dogs, owls, snakes and even hedgehogs!
Compulsive shopping at Daiso!
photo credits: planetyze.com
Exactly, compulsive shopping. In fact, Daiso offers 5 stories of articles of all kinds and all sold only for 100 Yen! Furthermore, the biggest Daiso is located in Takeshita Street and some others are scattered all around town.
Plunge into the green in Tokyo
photo credits: blogdiviaggi.com
There is no shortage of beautiful parks in Tokyo. We'll talk about it in-depth in the second episode of our travel guide on Tokyo, but it is absolutely one of the things to do while walking around the city! Cherry trees in spring and momiji (Japanese red maples) will give you moments of pure relaxation in autumn, so a stop at each of the city's parks is essential. Absolutely not to be missed!
Sumo Tournaments
photo credits: japanistry.com
If you visit the city during tournaments (usually January, May and September) you should give yourself the experience of attending the Japanese national sport combat sessions at Ryugoku! For the Japanese, in fact, Sumo is not just about sports, but about a real unmissable form of art.
Tokyo Museums
photo credits: jrailpass.com
Like any self-respecting city, Tokyo also offers museums, but in this case, they take on an even more special feature because there are so many types of them. From the historic Tokyo National Museum at Ueno, to the Edo-Tokyo Museum to Ryugoku, and the Ghibli Museum for Studio Ghibli lovers or the bizarre Museum of Parasites in Meguro!
Golden Gai
photo credits: theculturetrip.com
The Golden Gai is a small area of Kabukicho in Shinjuku, famous for its network of narrow alleys that are connected by even closer passages. Along these narrow streets, there are more than 200 tiny bars, clubs and restaurants that are absolutely unique and characteristic.
Travel on the Yurikamome-line
photo credits: wow-j.com
The Yurikamome-line is the railway line whose trains are driverless and speed through the skyscrapers of the city! A must-try when the sun goes down and the city lights come on...
Izakaya
photo credits: jamesmagazine.it
Izakaya is a typical Japanese restaurant where food is served to accompany a vast amount of alcohol. Usually they are places frequented by colleagues from a company who, after a long day of work, give themselves a break to talk about a bit of everything.
Sashimi for breakfast at the Toyosu fish market
photo credits: travel.sygic.com
How many times have we eat sashimi or sushi and say "wow, this is really good and fresh!" Well... we probably still have no idea what fresh and good means!!!
photo credits: corriere.it
These are only 10 points we thought of, but in reality, there are really a million things to do in Tokyo. For example, you can taste everything that exists with green tea, go to an onsen, cross the Shibuya intersection, participate in Hanami, pray in a temple, admire Mount Fuji. To not forget yet, Ginza, Shinjuku, Kanagawa, Saitama, Odaiba... Tokyo is not a city, but a wonderful dream![:]