Senchadō: The refined art of Japanese loose leaf tea
When we talk about Japanese tea, our minds immediately turn to matcha and its codified ceremony. But there is another tradition, less known but equally fascinating: Senchadō, the art of preparing and enjoying sencha, the most popular loose leaf green tea in Japan..
A freer and more modern ceremony
Compared to the rigid formality of Cha-no-yu, the matcha ceremony, Senchadō stands out for its more spontaneous and intimate approach. Born in the Edo period thanks to Confucian scholars, it spread among literati as a refined but accessible ritual, where the pleasure of conversation is combined with tea tasting.
The art of preparation
In Senchadō, everything revolves around precision and harmony. A kyūsu teapot is used, perfect for controlling the flow of water, and the tea is infused at lower temperatures than other varieties, to enhance its sweetness and umami. Every pour has a meaning, and the elegance of the gesture becomes part of the experience.
A journey of senses and culture
More than a simple drink, Senchadō is an art that invites you to slow down and appreciate the present moment. The herbaceous scent of sencha, the golden color of its infusion and the delicate flavor blend together in a ritual that transmits balance and well-being.
Where to experience it
In Japan, some traditional schools offer Senchadō experiences, while in cities like Kyoto and Tokyo there are specialized tea rooms. Even at home, with the right tea and a little attention to preparation, it is possible to approach this refined practice.
Discovering Senchadō means coming into contact with a lesser-known dimension of Japanese culture, made of elegant gestures and authentic taste. Are you ready to pour your first cup?
Emoji and Japanese Culture: The Visual Language That's Taking Over the World
Emoji have become an essential element of digital communication. These small, colorful symbols enrich messages, posts, and advertising campaigns, transforming simple words into more lively and emotional expressions. But there's much more to these icons than meets the eye: emoji have deep roots in Japanese culture, and understanding their meaning can make communication more effective and engaging.
The Japanese Origin of Emoji
In the late 1990s, Japan was at the forefront of mobile telecommunications. To make messages more expressive and concise, the first emoji were introduced, an idea that combined the minimalist Japanese aesthetic with the need to communicate emotions immediately. The term itself, "emoji," comes from "e" (image) and "moji" (character), highlighting their function as visual symbols.
Emoji and Japanese Culture
Many of the icons we use daily are directly inspired by Japanese tradition. Ramen 🍜, torii ⛩ (the red gate of Shinto shrines), dango 🍡 (rice cake on a stick) or naruto 🍥 (a spiral garnish for ramen) are just a few examples of emojis that reflect Japanese culture and cuisine. These symbols are not just decorations, but tell stories and traditions, adding depth to digital communication.
The Use of Emoji in Marketing
Emojis are powerful marketing tools, capable of breaking down language barriers and creating immediate connections with the public. However, their meaning can vary depending on the cultural context. In fact, some gestures and symbols can be interpreted differently depending on the country. For this reason, those who use emojis in communication must carefully consider the target audience, avoiding misunderstandings and making the message more authentic and inclusive.
Tips for Effective Use
To make the most of emojis in communication, it is useful to follow some guidelines:
✔ Know your audience to choose emojis that are understandable and suitable for the context.
✔ Maintain consistency with the brand, using symbols that reflect the tone and values of the company.
✔ Avoid excesses, so that the message remains clear and effective.
✔ Stay up to date on new emojis and emerging trends for communication that is always current.
A Universal Language in Continuous Evolution
Emojis are not simple decorative elements, but real tools of expression that enrich digital communication. Understanding their origins and their meaning allows you to use them more consciously, transforming them into a bridge between different cultures and a key element for more effective and engaging marketing strategies.
Sake: Three Fun Facts About Japan's Iconic Drink
Sake is more than just an alcoholic beverage; it is a true piece of Japanese culture, closely tied to the history, traditions, and even spirituality of the Land of the Rising Sun. Although it is often referred to as “rice wine,” its production is unique and its significance goes far beyond simple taste. When talking about rice-based beverages, the ideogram sake [酒] generally refers to alcohol, but is pronounced shu. When the Japanese talk about beverages made with rice, they use the term nihonshu [日本酒], which means “drink of Japan.”
Now, get ready to discover three fascinating facts that will make you see sake in a whole new light!
1. Sake is not a distilled beverage
Many people believe that sake is similar to liquor or spirits, but in reality, its production process is closer to that of beer. The rice used is first polished to remove impurities, then steamed and fermented using a special fungus called koji. This turns starches into sugars, allowing the yeast to start the alcoholic fermentation.
The result? A drink with a complex and delicate flavor, with an alcohol content of between 13% and 16%. And if you thought there was only one type of sake, think again: there are lighter, unfiltered, sparkling and even aged varieties!
2. A connection to the sacred
Sake is not only a pleasure for the palate, but also a deeply rooted element in Japanese religious traditions. Ancient legends say that even the gods appreciated it: the storm god Susanoo-no-Mikoto is said to have defeated a dragon by offering it eight barrels of sake.
To this day, the drink is still used in Shinto rituals, especially at weddings and in offerings to the kami (Japanese deities). During some festivals, such as the Doburoku Matsuri, unfiltered sake is distributed to participants, creating a link between the sacred and conviviality.
3. Sake etiquette
It is not enough to fill a glass and drink, sake has a real code of conduct. Traditionally, it is drunk in small ceramic cups (choko) or in elegant wooden boxes (masu). But there is one golden rule: never pour it yourself! It is an impolite gesture, while pouring it for others is a sign of respect and sharing.
Temperature also matters: in the winter it can be enjoyed hot, while in the summer months it is more appreciated fresh or even cold. Each serving method brings out different aromas, making each sip a unique experience.
A toast to tradition!
Sake is not just a drink, it is a journey into Japanese culture. Next time you have the opportunity to taste it, remember to raise the cup and toast with a traditional "Kanpai!" – and maybe surprise your friends with these curiosities!
Our relationship with Sake
Japan Italy Bridge has often dedicated itself to the promotion of sake, carrying out numerous initiatives, including the Bunka Academy. The goal was to raise awareness in Italy of how to appreciate sake, emphasizing that it is not a grappa, but a real wine. It is not a drink to be consumed only at the end of a meal, but to be enjoyed throughout the dinner. Unlike wine, sake does not cover the flavors of dishes, but enhances them. For this reason, Japan Italy Bridge has organized events in collaboration with Japanese experts, who have shared with the public the history, the production process and the secrets of consuming and preserving sake.
If you are curious, we invite you to take a look at our portfolio and discover all the collaborations we have carried out.
The Forgotten Artist of Osaka: The Magic of Nakamura Hōchū
When we talk about the Rinpa school of art, we often think of the great names of Kyoto, but there was one artist who managed to make this style shine in Osaka too: Nakamura Hōchū. His life remains shrouded in mystery, but what is certain is that he was an innovator capable of reinterpreting tradition with his own touch.
Hōchū began his career immersed in the cultural environment of Osaka, a lively city full of artistic stimuli. Initially influenced by the Nanga style, he loved to hang out with poets and scholars, including Kimura Kenkadō, with whom he shared a passion for beauty and nature. But the real turning point came when he discovered the works of Ogata Kōrin, one of the great masters of the Rinpa school. It was love at first sight: the vibrant colors, elegant shapes and refined composition won over Hōchū, who decided to dedicate himself to this style, reinterpreting it in an original way.
Photos: Wikipedia
His most famous work, the "Kōrin Gafu", is a true celebration of Rinpa. It is an illustrated book that collects paintings of flowers, landscapes and scenes of daily life, created with extraordinary elegance and lightness. But unlike his predecessors, Hōchū added a playful and spontaneous touch to his creations, making them more accessible and dynamic. His style, while respecting the canons of Rinpa, had a freshness that still distinguishes him today.
Photos: Wikipedia
What makes Hōchū fascinating is precisely his ability to be faithful to tradition without being repetitive. His works almost seem to dialogue with the viewer, telling stories through fluid lines and bright colors. It is no coincidence that his works have ended up in the collections of important international museums, where they continue to enchant art lovers and scholars.
Today, the name of Nakamura Hōchū may not be among the most well-known when it comes to Japanese art, but his contribution to the spread of the Rinpa style was fundamental. His ability to innovate without distorting, to make an ancient artistic language modern, makes him an artist to be rediscovered and admired. If you happen to see one of his works, stop and observe it carefully: you could discover an unexpected side of Japanese art.
Hosokawa Tadaoki: A Warrior and Strategist of Feudal Japan
Hosokawa Tadaoki (1534-1596) was one of the most famous samurai of the Sengoku period, an era of intense conflict and power struggles in Japan. Son of Hosokawa Ujitsuna, a powerful daimyo, Tadaoki distinguished himself for his military talent and strategic role, earning respect and influence during the transition from the Sengoku period to the Edo period.
Photo: Wikipedia
Tadaoki began his military career as a young samurai in the service of the Hosokawa clan. Although he is best known for his connection to the famous military leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi, his loyalty to the latter was crucial to his success. In 1582, after the death of Oda Nobunaga, Tadaoki joined Hideyoshi's forces, participating in the campaign that led to the subjugation of much of Japan.
One of Hosokawa Tadaoki’s most famous actions was his participation in the Battle of Shizugatake (1583), where, despite being pitted against Nobunaga’s ally, General Mori Terumoto, he managed to prevail thanks to an impeccable strategic maneuver. This success allowed him to obtain greater lands and power.
Tadaoki was not only a warrior, but also a skilled strategist. His ability to quickly adapt to changes on the battlefield made him an indispensable ally for Hideyoshi. However, he also distinguished himself for his interest in culture, especially the tea ceremony, where he became a patron of the arts and an important influencer at court.
After Hideyoshi’s death, Tadaoki continued to exert his influence, maintaining control of his lands and trying to navigate the political tensions that would lead to the birth of the Tokugawa shogunate. His death in 1596 marked the end of an era, but his name has remained at the center of Japanese history as a symbol of loyalty, courage and strategic wisdom.
Tokyo and the crossroads: Not just Shibuya Scramble
Imagine being immersed in vibrant and dynamic Tokyo, a place where every corner holds a surprise and every street tells a story. Shibuya Crossing is perhaps the epicenter of this overwhelming energy, an iconic symbol immortalized in countless shots. Here, the imposing commercial buildings, the glittering advertising signs and the incessant stream of pedestrians create a unique, almost magical atmosphere. But if your desire is to explore lesser-known, equally fascinating corners, here are five intersections of Tokyo that will make you fall in love with this city even more.
Credits: Savvytokyo
Sukiyabashi Crossing
The first is the Sukiyabashi Crossing in Ginza, a true hidden gem that offers a similar visual and sensory experience to Shibuya. The white and orderly pedestrian lines, together with the vitality of Ginza Sony Park and Sukiyabashi Park, create a futuristic and vibrant atmosphere. But what really makes this intersection special is the majestic Tokyu Plaza Ginza, with its façade inspired by Edo Kiriko glass. Known as the "Gateway to Ginza", this place defines the elegance and luxury of Tokyo's shopping district.
Credits: A. Wee
Nissan Crossing
Continuing into the heart of Ginza, you will find yourself at the intersection of Seiko House Ginza. This spot evokes the glamour of New York's Fifth Avenue, with its glittering shop windows and refined architecture. Here, Japanese luxury is palpable: on the one hand, the sophisticated Seiko watches; on the other, Nissan's cutting-edge cars and the innovative Sony showroom. Every corner exudes elegance and craftsmanship of the highest standard.
Credits japantravel.navitime.com
Roppongi Crossing
Moving to Roppongi, we find an intersection that shines especially at night. The lights of the skyscrapers illuminate the sky, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Roppongi Crossing is crossed by the Metropolitan Expressway, an imposing structure that adds a touch of urban grandeur. The "Roppongi" signs on the freeway are an unmistakable landmark, a symbol of this lively and cosmopolitan neighbourhood. When in the area, don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the many trendy bars in Roppongi.
Credits B.Lucava
Kabukicho Crossing
Another unmissable intersection is Kabukicho in Shinjuku. Here, Godzilla's head poking out of the Toho Cinema provides a surreal and iconic scene. Kabukicho is the beating heart of Tokyo's nightlife, with its neon signs, restaurants and bars crowded with students and salarymen. This red-light district, with its mix of pop culture and lively energy, offers endless photo opportunities and a unique experience.
Credits J. Jenkin
Asakusa Crossing
Finally, we cannot forget Asakusa Crossing, which marks the entrance to Nakamise-dori and leads to the majestic Sensoji Temple. This is one of the most recognizable views of Tokyo, dominated by the Kaminarimon Gate with its imposing lantern. The atmosphere here is steeped in history and tradition, enriched by the rickshaws that await tourists at the entrance. Crossing the street, you will find the Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, designed by Kengo Kuma, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
These crossings represent the essence of Tokyo, a city that knows how to surprise and fascinate every corner. Get ready to discover the magic that lies in these urban wonders and be inspired by their unique beauty.
Anime: a timeless form of art
How many of us grew up watching the "cartoons" (as we ignorantly used to define them) of "Dragon Ball", "Captain Tsubasa", "Sailor Moon", "The Rose of Versailles" and how many more!? Now that we are a few (many!) years older we can delve deeper into the concept and understand what they really represent for the Land of the Rising Sun.
These animated series feature a wide range of genres, styles and themes and it is a true art form that has deep roots in Japanese culture and has evolved over time, becoming a mainstay of entertainment both at home and abroad. They are not just a means of entertainment, but often deal with complex and universal themes, offering reflections on society, politics and human relationships. Their importance lies in their ability to convey emotions, tell engaging stories and explore complex concepts through an accessible and visually stimulating medium.
Credits anime.everyeye.it
Global heritage
Internationalization is a significant phenomenon that has made anime an integral part of global popular culture. In recent decades, they have gained large audiences outside of Japan, with an increasingly large fanbase around the world. This was facilitated by several factors:
- platforms like Netflix, Crunchyroll and Funimation have made it easily accessible in many parts of the world, allowing viewers to watch the latest series with subtitles or dubbing in different languages.
- social media and online communities have played a vital role in expanding the anime fanbase. Reddit, X and Discord have given fans a space to discuss, share fan art, theories and news, helping to create a sense of global community.
- Dedicated conventions are held around the world, offering fans the opportunity to meet in person, participate in panels, cosplay competitions and purchase exclusive merchandise.
Merchandise per tutti i gusti
The international success has also generated a vast market for products such as toys and action figures that reproduce iconic characters; clothing and accessories such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, caps and home gadgets: mugs, posters, cushions and many other objects.
We must also not forget the thriving videogames market: many anime have inspired videogames for consoles and mobile devices, which allow fans to further immerse themselves in the worlds of their favorite series.
Credits: voyapon.com
Support from the national government
The Japanese government has played a significant role in supporting the anime industry through policies and financial incentives, recognising the economic and cultural importance of the industry by providing direct funding and tax breaks to anime companies in order to promote the production and distribution of high quality content, and the government itself works with entities such as the Japan Foundation and the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) to promote anime abroad. No less important is the strong commitment to the protection of intellectual property through which the government works to protect copyright and combat piracy by ensuring that anime companies and artists receive fair compensation for their work.
Credits: gurneyjourney.blogspot.com
Growth without borders
Unique style and rich storytelling make anime a global treasure that must not, however, lose its roots: this is a constant challenge, especially culturally. In our country, anime that is normally broadcast on television is censored; violent expressions or satire are included in the original version, which can raise open debates. Despite this, however, anime production companies must find a balance between artistic freedom and cultural sensitivity and continue in their unique and inimitable style.
What do you think about this special topic?
Travel with us
Japan Italy Bridge has just launched its exclusive “Your Japan”, a trip to Japan tailor-made for Italian tourists. This autumn, you will have the chance to go with us to Tokyo. An All Inclusive experience that will allow you to discover the beauties of the capital of Japan. Japan Italy Bridge will take care of everything, from booking flights and hotels to planning your travel plan. Furthermore, our guides will leave with you from Italy and will accompany you along the entire Japanese route.
So what are you waiting for? The time has come to pack your suitcase and travel with us!
The power of social media: TikTok and the Japanese pop star
We continue with our Business Focus column and today we are discussing the TikTok and Miki Matsubara case. Do you already know what we are talking about?
We've said many times before how social media is a powerhouse for businesses and individuals alike, and in this year's pandemic we've had confirmation of that. Even those who did not believe in the digital revolution have now had to change their minds.
How TikTok resurrected a Japanese pop star hit song
Author: Erika
In these months of quarantine and forced isolation, we have seen an increase in creativity on social media. A clear example of this is the rapid rise of TikTok, the favourite social media of young people, which has seen the number of users constantly growing to become the second most downloaded app in 2020.
From pranks to animals to the now famous dance videos, many TikTokers have launched trends that still accompany our days. But today the power of TikTok doesn't just stop with its trends. The case of Miki Matsubara and how a video shared on this social managed to revive one of his hits from 1979 has caused a stir.
In December, users of the platform resurrected the song 'Mayonaka no Door: Stay With Me', which made Matsubara a star in Japan back in 1979. More than 40 years later, the song is still catchy and joyful enough to become the perfect soundtrack to TikTok videos featuring Japanese mothers;
"I did the TikTok when my mum was doing things around the house," one user tells The Japan Times via email. This clip reached more than 1.5 million likes and views in a very short time, propelling "Mayonaka no Door" to the top of Spotify's Global Viral 50 chart for three weeks.
@kickronnie
I’m asking her to sing this next karaoke night 👸🏻 #japan #japanese #おかあさま #fyp
♬ 真夜中のドア/Stay With Me - Miki Matsubara
Unfortunately, Matsubara died in 2004 and was unable to enjoy the revival. However, the song's composer, 71-year-old Tetsuji Hayashi, tells the Japan Times that this new hit "seems very strange... it was so long ago".
Music and social media
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But is it really that strange? Let's start with the fact that when a song is good, it's still good even after forty years, but let's also think about how much power social media has gained these days. Unfortunately, much of the Japanese music industry still seems to operate as if it were 1979, thus giving little importance to the digital and social media world. The Matsubara case is a case in point.
Singer-songwriter Tetsuji Hayashi says new technologies are rewriting the rules of how a song becomes a hit, "it could be from another country or another generation". It's been a few months now, but the 'Mayonaka no Door' case shows how the interaction between Japanese artists and international listeners has changed over the last few decades. International social media also allows a new generation to fall in love with an artist who might previously have been discarded from playlists simply because of her or his nationality. With the rise of K-pop and the unstoppable BTS, social media sites such as TikTok are also increasingly trending Japanese songs.
The power of TikTok
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Based on recent statistics, TikTok users spend more than 850 minutes per month on the app, more than 14 hours per month. If we look at the data from October 2019 to March 2020, we can see a significant increase in the amount of time the average user spends on the app, also due to the lockdown.
This social media has spread like wildfire globally, particularly in Asian nations, becoming an entertainment outlet thanks in part to its search based on hashtags. In fact, as of June 2020, the most popular categories on TikTok all have over a billion views. If we go on to count lip-synching and dance videos, we arrive at a total of over 150 billion views.
2020 was marked by lockdowns, and it was during this time that people jumped on new media in search of entertainment and an outlet for their creativity. In fact, TikTok took second place on the list of most downloaded iPhone apps, surpassed only by Zoom for obvious reasons. TikTok even surpassed the downloads of Facebook, Messenger, Gmail, Netflix, YouTube and Instagram, across all app stores, making it the most popular app globally in 2020.
Moreover, in a world like the digital marketing one, we know how important the engagement rate of a social media is. Recent data show that engagement rate varies at different follower levels for Instagram, YouTube and other social media. However, at all follower levels, TikTok has a considerably higher rate than other platforms. In fact, Upfluence analysed that micro-influencers have an engagement rate of 17.96% on TikTok, compared to 3.86% on Instagram and 1.63% on YouTube. While mega-influencers have an engagement rate of 4.96% on TikTok, 1.21% on Instagram and 0.37% on YouTube.
The figures speak for themselves and in 2021 we can only expect a steady rise of this social network and who knows, maybe we can rediscover some other Japanese hits! Do you already have any idea on what the next music trend for TikTokers might be in 2021?