Unearth the Cultural Treasures of Japan

2018-02-28

The quiet, understated beauty of Japanese culture can be found around every corner when you travel through Japan. Although it may be hidden amongst the hustle of their big modern cities, it can be found everywhere. There are three things that you can find in the quiet moments in Japan, works of cultural art that have been part of this place for centuries – the stunning, quiet pageantry of the Geisha, the meditative artistry of the Japanese Tea Ceremony, and the perfected craftsmanship of the ancient architecture.

The iconic geisha is a perfect example of the artistry of Japanese culture. Geisha are the careful keepers of a centuries old form of entertainment. These performing artists are held in very high esteem in Japanese culture, and it is considered a great honor to be one. Geisha undergo very strict training in the traditional Japanese arts for many years to become the perfect entertainers and living works of art. In fact, training to become a geisha takes as long as it takes to become a doctor.

If you’re lucky enough to see one, the tea ceremony is another example of quiet, ritualistic beauty. The Japanese Tea Ceremony is a choreographic ritual of preparing and serving Japanese green tea, called Matcha. Watching and participating in the tea ceremony is like being a partner in a beautiful dance with precisely choreographed steps. The objective of the ceremony is not just to make a cup of tea; it is a deliberate exercise in being present in the moment and appreciating the simple things in life.

The traditional architecture in ancient Japan showcases the craftsmanship and beauty of the culture. A perfect symbol of this is Matsumoto’s Castle. Once the seat of the Matsumoto domain and located in the city of Matsumoto, this 400-year-old castle is known as the “Crow Castle” because of its stunning black exterior. It’s one of Japan’s oldest and most important historic castles, and as such, it is considered a National Treasure.

These are just a few examples of why traveling to Japan, and basking in this incredible culture, is a transformative and meaningful experience.

To see the beauty and elegance of Japan on our tour, The Cultural Treasures of Japan, visit collette.com