Japan is fascinated by the extent and diversity of its culture. From warrior dynasties to entrenched social practices, to everyday objects still used today, each aspect tells a unique part of Japanese identity. This article invites you to discover the outstanding historical figures, the ever-living customs in society, and the symbolic clothing or accessories that bear witness to Japanese elegance and ingenuity.
Japanese history: warrior figures and heritage
From the tumulus of the Kofun period to the feudal castles, to the great figures of samurai, Japan’s history is rich in epic narratives and architectural heritage.
History of Japan
Kofun period
The Kofun period, the first major chapter in Japanese history, is marked by gigantic tumulus and the establishment of a centralized political structure.
Historical Personalities of Japan
War figures
Feudal Japan has developed a complex military hierarchy: samurai, ashigarus, sohei (monks-soldiers), ninjas and onna musha (combatant women).
Japanese castles
Today, twelve authentic castles remain, guardians of the tumultuous period of feudal Japan.
Historical architecture
Japanese customs and society: rituals, symbols and popular culture
Marriage in Japan follows specific rules: administrative, but also often religious according to shinto rites. Certain ancient practices such as ohaguro — the black tincture of teeth in women — bear witness to different aesthetic concepts.
Marriage and Okuizome
Furoshiki and gashapons
Yuruchara and cosplay festivals
Baths in Japan
Randoseru and school party
Sewer plates and lottery
Japanese motor vehicle and pachinko
Konbinis and sounds of Japan
Traditional clothing and accessories: utility, aesthetics and comfort
Japanese elegance is expressed through simple and refined accessories. The kanzashi adorn the hairstyles during the big ceremonies. The maekake, a robust traditional apron, is worn in shops and breweries. The tabi, toe-separated socks, wear with geta or zori sandals.
Kimono and silk
Japanese uniforms
The school uniform (seifuku) occupies a central place in Japanese culture, between tradition, codification and popular representations.
Futons and tatamis
Traditional accessories
Politics, crime and reading
Politics and crime in Japan
Japanese society is built around a balance between political stability and public security. On the one hand, the functioning of institutions and the place of parties shape the country’s orientations. On the other hand, the management of crime and the perception of security influence the daily lives of citizens.
Books on Japan
Immersing yourself in Japanese culture means observing how every gesture, object, garment or custom tells a story deeply rooted in everyday life.
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Frequently asked questions about the history and customs of Japan
What are the major periods in Japan’s history?
Japanese history is organized in great periods:Jōmon(prehistory),Yayoi,Kofun(tumulus),Asuka,Nara,Heian(classical era),Kamakura(first shogunate),Muromachi,Azuchi-Momoyama(unification),Edo(Shogunate Tokugawa, 1603-1868),Meiji(modernization),Taishō,ShōwaandHeisei/Reiwa(contemporary era).
What is the difference between samurai, ranin and ashigaru?
Thesamuraiis a noble warrior at the service of a lord (daimyo). Theraninis a samurai without master, often after the death or disgrace of his lord. Theashigaruis a infantryman, often from the peasantry, who fights with simple weapons (yari, arquebuse). Thesoheiare war monks, and theonna-mushawomen fighters.
What are the main rites of passage in Japan?
The main rites of passage are:Omiyamari(first visit to the sanctuary, ~1 month),Okuizome(first meal, ~100 days),Shichi-Go-San(3, 5 and 7 years),Seijin No Hi(20 years of age, transition to adulthood), andmarriage(Shinto or civilian). Everyone marks a stage in social and spiritual life.
Why are the Japanese wearing the kimono again?
The kimono remains worn duringofficial ceremonies(marriage, graduation),traditional holidays(matsuri, New Year), and by some artisans or geishas. There are several types:Furisode(young unmarried women),tomesode(married women),yukata(summer, casual). The wearing of the kimono has become a cultural and aesthetic act more than a daily garment.
What everyday objects are typical of Japan?
Among the emblematic objects:furoshiki(packaging fabric), thetenugui(Fine serviette), thenoren(shop)tatami(straw floor),futon(traditional linen),gashapons(surprise caps),illustrated sewage platesand theKonbinis(superettes) that are part of the daily landscape.
How to discover Japanese culture before a trip?
Read moreReference works(history, society, anthropology), look atDocumentaries, explore thehistorical districts(Kyoto, Kanazawa, Takayama), visit themuseums(history, crafts), and taste theregional cuisine. On site, focus onImmersive experiences(ryokan, tea ceremony, craft workshops) and respect thelocal customs(policies, silence in transport).
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