Tag Archives: Culture of Japan

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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”Death is not the opposite of life, but a part of it.”

- Haruki Murakami
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Japanese Funeral Superstitions Surrounding Death and the Number Four

Why this number sparks fear in Japan

Superstitions about numbers are nothing new. Look at Western culture’s obsession with the unlucky number thirteen to understand how pervasive number superstitions can be. Many people in Japan would think nothing of hopping into an elevator to get to the … Continue reading

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