Sometimes translated as “demon”, “devil” or “ogre”, an oni is a traditional Japanese monster typically depicted as wearing a tiger pelt and carrying an iron club. They usually have red or blue skin and horns. They are popular characters in Japanese fairy tales and legends. In early February the annual bean-throwing festival is practiced toContinue reading "鬼 (oni) “Demon”"

Obviously, the new year is a traditional time to start new things. Another option is to continue something old, but look at it anew. In Japanese this is known as 初心 (shoshin), or “Beginner’s Mind”. 初 = for the first time, in the beginning.  This is the same kanji as 初め (hajimé), meaning “for theContinue reading "初心 (shoshin) “beginner’s mind”"

This is the “-dō” in the Japanese martial arts of judō, kendō and aikidō, as well as shodō (calligraphy), sadō (tea ceremony) and many others.  Loosely translated, it means “way”, “route”, “path” or “doctrine”.  My calligraphy teacher said that studying a Japanese art is considered similar to taking a journey up a mountain. The summitContinue reading "道 (dō) “Way”, “Route”, “The Tao”"

Like many East Asian countries, Japan uses the 12-animal Chinese zodiac. 2025 is the year of the Snake 🐍 The kanji for "snake" is usually 蛇 (hebi). However the kanji for animals in the Chinese Zodiac are different. Snake is 巳.

Like many East Asian countries, Japan uses the 12-animal Chinese zodiac. 2025 is the year of the Snake 🐍

Like many countries, Japan uses a 12-month calendar. The names are very simple. January is literally "Month One", February is "Month Two", etc: 一月 = January 二月 = February However, before the Meiji Restoration (mid-1800s) it was common to use an older 12-month system. These months’ names referenced the weather and the seasons (similar toContinue reading "睦月 (mu-tsu-ki) “January” (archaic)"