Tag Archives: Japan

Okinawa Has Highest Concentration of Centenarians in the World

The Japanese Prefecture and its inhabitants have been studied for over 40 years

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, the Chief Medical Correspondent for CNN, has traveled the world to learn the ways different people live meaningful and healthy lives. One of his expeditions took him to the Okinawa Prefecture in Japan. The string of islands … Continue reading

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Servers with Dementia Will Surprise You at This Tokyo Restaurant

The Restaurant of Mistaken Orders is wonderfully unique

Are you an adventurous diner? Would you eat at a place called Cheesy Does it? How about Lord of the Fries? Poopsies Food and Drink? Would you consider dining at Baguetteaboutit? If your answer is “yes,” then you probably have … Continue reading

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Exploring Themes of Life and Death in Hasegawa Tōhaku’s Landscapes

The Japanese artist uses simple designs to express complex ideas

Known as one of the greatest painters in Japanese history, Hasegawa Tōhaku has influenced countless artists over the centuries. He is famous for his simple, almost reserved painting style; Hasegawa Tōhaku’s landscapes are all deeply serene and minimalist in nature. … Continue reading

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Song About Loss: “Ue o Muite Arukō (Sukiyaki)” by Kyu Sakamoto

An emotional Japanese tune contains hidden layers of meaning

“Ue o Muite Arukō,” also known as “Sukiyaki,” by Kyu Sakamoto is a moving song about loss that translates across languages and cultures. It’s at once sorrowful and hopeful. The light melody bubbles at the surface and sparks joy in … Continue reading

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Do All Zen Buddhists Believe in Rebirth?

A look into two theories behind Dogen teachings

One of the primary concepts behind most schools of Zen Buddhism is the idea that there is no real “self” who is born or dies. If one believes in this concept, it seems that the idea of “rebirth” doesn’t fit into … Continue reading

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“Departures” by Yōjirō Takita

This Japanese film explores the taboo of working intimately with death

In “Departures,” Yōjirō Takita points out the absurdity of a culture that holds onto rich death rituals while condemning those who perform them. The emotional, sometimes downright hilarious, movie explores why we need death traditions and shines light on a practice that … Continue reading

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