To fill the kitchen with Japanese flavours it is enough to follow some tested recipes of OYAKATA Master. But what to do to introduce Asian climate to whole home space? Find out how to arrange Japanese-style interior and enjoy the exceptional atmosphere of the Orient in your every-day life.

Red circle against a white background – the Japanese flag most likely needs no introductions. But few of us know its origin and what the characteristic pattern stands for. Both the flag and the other national symbols of Japan say a lot about the history of the Country of Cherry Blossoms and are an important element of its culture.

Sumo, karate, judo… Baseball and football lead the way as Japanese favourite sports nowadays but martial arts still represent an incredibly important element of the Japanese culture, which is reflected not only in the physical fitness of the islanders but also in their mentality.

Japanese love for festivals, holidays and colourful traditions is also reflected in the celebrations of Children’s Day – a holiday so inconspicuous in Europe. Though officially two separate days – Girls’ Day and Boys’ Day – are no longer celebrated, the festivities are still unique, full of symbols and unique customs.

The art of the Country of Cherry Blossoms is characterised by moderation, modesty and precision – attributes so typical of the Japanese. Despite appearing quite simple and schematic, the works of suibokuga – the Japanese ink painting technique – entail years of patient practice, perfection of drawing skills and deep mediation.

The kokeshi wooden dolls have been a part of Japanese traditional art for centuries. They attract the attention of collectors and tourists looking for regional handicraft. Made in Japan for the past centuries, the figurines represent a craft tradition passed down from generation to generation and are surrounded by many popular myths.

Visitors to Japanese temples are bound to notice the colourful stands full of shiny trinkets and knick-knacks. Their attention is usually drawn to the bright shades and the brocade threads of omamori – Japanese special task talismans, shimmering in the sun.

Despite being attached to tradition, the Japanese are not particularly religious. They celebrate the important events connected with the cycle of life, known as the rites of passage, but religion is not a very important element of their daily lives. Omamori, the colourful talismans to be found at the stands near almost any Japanese temple – whether it is a Buddhist tera or a Shinto chram – are the few remains of the religious association of the people of Japan.

The culture and tradition of Japan, so different from that of Europe, never ceases to enchant and intrigue people from the West. Let’s take a look at traditional rules of Bushido to understand this difference at least to a certain extent. The unwritten collection of rules for Japanese warriors shaped not only the characters of brave samurai but it also tremendously contributed to the development of the insular country’s whole culture.

Balance, harmony, beauty – Ikebana is more than simply a method of arranging flowers. It is a mystical and spiritual art where man becomes one with nature, paying their respects with the precision of flower compositions.

All around the world people believe that the arrangement of celestial bodies influences their life and determines the character, and that knowledge about planets and stars helps predict the future. Asian and European cultures differ in many aspects, such as religion and customs. This is also the case when it comes to the calendar and to zodiac signs. If you are curious about a Japanese horoscope, you must read this article.

Just one encounter with Japanese culture, so different from that of Europe, is enough to invoke our interest and curiosity. Japan has many customs and traditions that stimulate our imagination. Giving names can be a good example as it is a process much more complex and complicated than for instance in Poland. Japanese parents do not leave this to chance because names express the desired quality of character or appearance of their child.

Umi-no Hi is one of Japanese national holidays, celebrated to express gratitude for the gifts of the sea and hope for kindness from the element in the future. Every year, the Japanese gather on the sunny beaches of coastal cities to celebrate Umi-no Hi during various festivals.