All Blog Posts, History in Japan

From Myth to Modern Marvel: The Epic Journey of Japan

From Myth to Modern Marvel: The Epic Journey of Japan

Welcome, fellow otaku! Prepare to embark on an exhilarating journey through time as we explore the birth and evolution of Japan. Get ready to uncover the fascinating legends, cultural wonders, and technological marvels that have shaped this incredible nation from its very inception until today. Buckle up and let’s dive into this captivating adventure!

  • The Mythical Origins: Tales of Gods and Heroes Step back into ancient times, where the mythical origins of Japan lie. Discover the captivating stories of gods and heroes, such as Izanagi and Izanami, who birthed the islands of Japan. Marvel at the tales of divine beings and their influence on the land, setting the stage for the unique cultural tapestry we witness today.

  • Shaping the Land: From Yamato to Heian Witness the rise of the Yamato clan, whose powerful rule laid the foundation for early Japanese society. Immerse yourself in the elegance and refinement of the Heian period, where art, literature, and courtly traditions flourished. Experience the beauty of classical Japanese poetry and immerse yourself in the splendor of court life.

  • Feudal Japan: Samurai, Shoguns, and Honor Codes Time to don your samurai armor and enter the thrilling era of feudal Japan. Explore the world of bushido, the way of the warrior, as mighty samurai warriors and powerful shoguns shape the course of history. Dive into legendary battles, political intrigue, and the enduring code of honor that defined the samurai spirit.

  • The Meiji Restoration: Japan’s Astonishing Renaissance Witness the breathtaking transformation as Japan emerges from centuries of isolation and embraces rapid modernization during the Meiji Restoration. Experience the awe-inspiring journey as traditional Japan collides with Western influences, giving birth to a nation determined to become a global powerhouse.

  • Anime, Manga, and Pop Culture Phenomena No exploration of Japan would be complete without delving into the vibrant world of anime, manga, and pop culture. Celebrate the imaginative creations that have captivated audiences worldwide, from the iconic characters of Studio Ghibli to the dynamic realms of manga. Discover the electrifying energy of anime conventions and the passion of devoted fans across the globe.

  • Technological Marvels: From High-Speed Trains to Robotics Prepare to be amazed by Japan’s technological prowess. Marvel at the bullet trains that whisk passengers across the country at unimaginable speeds. Witness the cutting-edge advancements in robotics, where human-like machines push the boundaries of innovation. Explore the futuristic landscapes of Tokyo and be inspired by Japan’s commitment to technological excellence.

  • Japan Today: Embracing Tradition in a Modern World Finally, let’s step into the present and experience Japan as it stands today. Immerse yourself in the unique blend of tradition and modernity that permeates the country. Discover the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms, the tranquility of ancient temples, and the bustling streets of vibrant cities. Experience the warm hospitality and deep-rooted cultural values that continue to shape Japan’s identity.

As our otaku adventure through the birth and evolution of Japan comes to a close, let us reflect on the incredible journey we have undertaken. From mythical beginnings to the heights of modern innovation, Japan has captured our hearts and ignited our passions. Let this journey inspire you to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, and may your love for all things Japanese continue to

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All Blog Posts, Funny, History in Japan, Japanese Culture

OK 牧場! & Guts Pose Day – April 11th

didn’t know about this until maybe a couple years ago when I was living in Japan and met my now friend/business partner at the time.

She would sometimes respond with … “OK Bokujou!” … and my wife and I were like… Wth?

She then said it became a popular phrase from a boxer named Guts back in the 70s, who then became a TV actor! … makes me think after all this that the main character in Berserk may stem from his name as well? Who knows.

Here is an interesting tid bit on it… and may you never forget… OK 牧場!

Here’s an AD with OK bokujou that my buddy from Japan found!

部長、
は?
企画書これで良いでしょうか?
OK牧場、なんちゃって
ぶちょう、きかくしょ これで いい でしょうか?
OKぼくじょう なんちゃって
Boss.
Huh?
How about this proposal?
OK, ranch.
What the heck.

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history of hemp in japan
All Blog Posts, History in Japan, Japanese Culture

Marijuana and Hemp in Ancient Japan

hemp in ancient japanese shinto religionThe History of Marijuana and Hemp in Japan.

Marijuana and hemp laws in Japan are quite stringent. You could be served with a 5-year jail term if you are found with Marijuana or if you are growing it. But what was it like before the laws in Japan changed?

Marijuana in ancient Japan was considered a subculture. Marijuana and hemp have been at the heart of every culture in ancient Japan. The traces of marijuana including woven fibers and seeds were quite common during the 10,000 and 300 BC. Marijuana and hemp were also used to make fishing lines, bow stings and prehistoric paintings in the country. Marijuana was grown in ancient Japan up to the twentieth century. Growing of the crop was a round year cycle with the planting of the seeds happening in spring and harvesting in summer/fall. The stalks were then dried carefully, soaked and turned into the quality and strong fiber.

In ancient Japan, wearing clothing made of hemp fiber was something to be proud of. Historic hemp was the most valuable and abundant crop in the country. This is not only for its low cost of growing and caring for the plant but also for the benefits it offered. The ability to turn hemp into fabric made it highly valuable. This includes fabric for making hemp skirts, shirts, pants, ropes, ship sails and hundreds of other types of uses.

hemp scroll japanHemp was also largely cultivated in ancient Japan especially in the districts of Shimane, Tochigi, Iwate, and Hiroshima among others in fact there is still a hemp culture in Japan, despite it now being highly regulated. Generally, the plant grows well in mountain valleys and on the interior plains and other cool places. It was cultivated as a food source and its course fiber. You will find marijuana and hemp (Cannabis Museum) in Tochigi, known as Taima Hakubutsukan that was established in 2001, by Junichi Takayasu (Facebook) (Wikipedia), a cannabis historian.

Taima Hakubutsukan
Japan, 〒325-0303 Tochigi, Nasu District, Nasu, 高久1-5
+81 287-62-8093
http://taimahak.jp/
*website is in Japanese, to learn more visit here.

Scrolls were also some of the common hemp products in Ancient Japan. The plants were equally a great feature for the Japanese culture and it played a significant role in the country’s agriculture and culture. Many people also used marijuana before undertaking their daily chores in the country, this was seen as normal and created a feeling of balance and focus depending on the strain type smoked. This included Japan’s oldest poet, Manisha who had poetry collections and other artistic features such as acrobatics. Since the history of Japan, acrobats would use marijuana to hone their skills.

Similarly, smoking marijuana or eating hemp food products was closely associated with healthy growth in ancient Japan. It was deemed an excellent crop that helps you to grow tall. It became quite common that marijuana songs were introduced in schools especially in the 18th century because of the importance of this plant and what it had done for the Japanese throughout history.

Also, marijuana in Japan was highly celebrated because of its cleansing features in the country. It was considered a religious herb and played a major spiritual role in Shintoism, an ancient Japanese religion. Hemp and marijuana were therefore used to help venerate perfect harmony and for cleansing or purification purposes. Spiritual leaders used the herb to exorcise bad and evil spirits. There is a very interesting past of the ancient Japanese using cannabis in their history.

Click here to learn Japanese with JapanesePod101.com

The plant also signifies purity even in weddings in ancient Japan. Brides who wore vines made from the marijuana plant were seen as pure and holy. Today, it is with no doubt that there are still taima (marijuana) ceremonies in Japan, held at the Isa Jingo in Mie Prefecture, Japan’s most sacred temple. Five annual ceremonies are held at the temple as a dedication to the country’s goddess despite the current demonetization of hemp and marijuana.

General Douglas MacArthur Signing Japanese Constitution

Undoubtedly, hemp and marijuana was quite a valuable and legal plant in ancient Japan. This was until General Douglas MacArthur removed its rightful usage after WWII when US troops occupied Japan. General McArthur guided the American troops who occupied most parts of the country and ruled its supreme court after atomic bombs wiped out Nagasaki and Hiroshima. McArthur was surprised that the plant that was banned years ago in the USA but Japan allowed it to be grown in such abundance. He imagined what would happen if the troops smoked marijuana and worked on a control act that is still in force to date. At least that’s what we are told he was worried about, the truth is mostly like not as black and white.

McArthur Cannabis Control Act demonized marijuana and hemp, a prohibition law, saw the enacted of harsh penalties for anyone found with marijuana in the country. Marijuana was banned because of McArthur argued that it had harmful amphetamines, and it is a drug stimulant. With Japan’s conservative culture, it was easy for the law to be enforced because many citizens believed that marijuana is a drug and hence, it is illegal to grow it or to distribute it in any way.

Even though Japan regained its independence many years ago, the McArthur Cannabis Control Act is still active. You can read more about General McArthur and the Japanese constitution here.

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