As an Asian Studies
major, I have chosen Japan as my specialty. Because of that it was difficult
to decide what to put down on this section. The first thing I decided
to put down was the "Hanami" or flower viewing. This isn't just a time
to go out and look at flowers. This is a national event when people go
out to view the cherry blossoms. The Japanese feel very strongly about
the cherry blossoms as a symbol of their nation. In fact, the Samurai
were the one's who had the biggest connection with the blossom. The reason
is because of it's explosive and short-lived beauty which, hit very close to
the violent and all too brief life of a Samurai.
While in Japan you can
get into the Samurai spirit by attending a Kendo class. You can learn
more about Kendo if you "click" on the picture. Be careful if you do go
to a class. Even though you have on pads those swords hurt like crazy.
If getting smacked
around with a sword for a day isn't your idea of fun then you might want
to visit a pachinko parlor. Since most people don't know how to play
(it is played for money) you might want to take a look at an online casino
where you can play pachinko for fun or for money. This site also
has music that automatically plays when you log on. The site is called
World Casino and it is way too much fun. Just "click" on the picture
and you're on your way.
If pachinko turns out to be too hectic for you. Then perhaps you might want to try achieving "Satori" or enlightenment through the practice of Zen Buddhism. Zen is a very Japanese version of Buddhism which involves many different aspects including rock gardens, archery, swordsman ship, calligraphy, and of course Koans. A Koan is a Zen poem/riddle meant to bring about enlightenment or to express a particular Zen fundamental. You can get your daily dose of Zen wisdom here. Or you can go to a Zen monastery. Many monasteries have workshops where you can participate for a day or two. Here is a site that contains the locations for quite a few Zen centers in the world where you might become enlightened.
One of my favorite
Japanese traditions is the Taiko drum troops. These are the "bands"
which number usually around fifty performers who dance, chant, play drums,
flutes, and cymbals. Used often times in conjunction with Kabuki
theater, Taiko performances are usually used to bring about good fortune
or to keep away evil Kami (spirits). The above picture will take
you to a site where you can purchase music, equipment, and find out about
upcoming performances. I can't stress it enough that you have to
see a Taiko performance, there really isn't anything else like it.