Archive for December, 2010
Traditional Japanese Music Posted by Ginny on Dec 6, 2010
Traditional Japanese music is still being played today in theaters and plays. For example Nagauta (長唄) is a form of traditional Japanese music using the shamisen (Japanese stringed instrument). Gagaku (雅楽) is formal music played for the imperial court. Gagaku is the oldest type of traditional music in Japan. Jōruri (浄瑠璃) is a type of…
Japanese Ceramics and Pottery Posted by Ginny on Dec 3, 2010
The subject of Japanese ceramics and pottery is interesting and complex. There are so many Japanese styles of with unique works by specific Japanese masters. Let’s take a look at some of them : Kakiemon (柿右衛門) Porcelain was first circulated in the 17th century. Not only was Kakiemon Porcelain valued in Japan, it was treasured…
Japanese Boxed Lunches Posted by Ginny on Dec 1, 2010
I will never forget my first Japanese Bentō (弁当). A bentō is a packed meal in a container, and depending on the bentō, different items are placed in the container. kyarakutā bentō (キャラクター弁当), which is shortened to Kyaraben (キャラ弁) is a type of “character bento”. The bentōs in this category are cute, and made to…