A sweet, non-alcoholic Japanese drink made from fermented rice, often consumed during festive occasions or as a warming winter beverage

Japanese animated films

A sweet red bean paste often used as a filling or topping in Japanese confectionery, made from cooked and mashed adzuki beans, sugar, and sometimes additional flavorings

A district in Tokyo known for its historical sites, including Senso-ji temple and Nakamise shopping street

A traditional Japanese dance festival held in August, originating from Tokushima Prefecture, featuring lively music, colorful costumes, and energetic dance performances

A Japanese lunchbox often consisting of rice, fish or meat, and vegetables arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner

A traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon festival to honor the spirits of ancestors

A Japanese subculture associated with motorcycle gangs and modified vehicles, often engaging in illegal activities and public disturbances

A form of traditional Japanese puppet theater, often featuring complex narratives and live musical accompaniment

The samurai code of honor, emphasizing loyalty, martial arts, and self-discipline

Traditional Japanese folding screens used to divide rooms or as decorative elements

Also known as the Way of Tea, Chadō is the traditional Japanese tea ceremony that emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility

A Japanese hot pot dish traditionally associated with sumo wrestlers, featuring a variety of ingredients such as meat, tofu, and vegetables cooked in a rich broth and served over rice

A small, simple room designed for tea ceremonies and the practice of Zen Buddhism

A Japanese tea bowl used in tea ceremonies, often handmade from ceramic materials and featuring a variety of shapes, colors, and glazes

A type of sushi featuring a bowl of sushi rice topped with a variety of ingredients such as fish, vegetables, and egg, often served as a colorful, casual meal or during celebrations

The practice of dressing up as characters from anime, manga, or other forms of pop culture

Feudal lords in Japan who controlled large territories and maintained their own samurai armies

A Japanese dumpling made from rice flour, often served on a skewer and accompanied by a variety of sweet or savory sauces, popular as a snack or dessert

A round, hollow Japanese traditional doll modeled after the founder of Zen Buddhism, often used as a symbol of perseverance and good luck

A Japanese children's game similar to Red Light, Green Light, involving one player acting as the daruma (a traditional doll) and others trying to approach without being caught

A fundamental Japanese soup stock made from ingredients such as kombu (kelp), bonito flakes, and dried fish, forming the base for many traditional dishes and sauces

A historical city in southern Japan known for its shrines, temples, and government offices during the Heian period

Japan has numerous regional dialects, which differ in vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar, reflecting the country's linguistic diversity

A Japanese term for extended family or lineage, often used in the context of family-based social groups or organizations

A period of Japanese history (1603-1868) marked by relative peace, strict social hierarchy, and the flourishing of urban culture and the arts

A traditional Japanese glass cutting technique characterized by its intricate patterns and vibrant colors

A period of Japanese history (1603-1868) characterized by economic growth, strict social order, and isolation from the rest of the world

A narrative handscroll painting in Japanese art, often depicting historical events, folk tales, or religious stories

Wooden plaques on which Shinto worshippers write their prayers or wishes and hang at a shrine

A genre of Japanese popular music characterized by its sentimental lyrics, slow tempo, and elements of traditional Japanese music, often associated with older generations

A Japanese drinking party, often held to celebrate work events, holidays, or other special occasions

A traditional Japanese fermented sushi made from crucian carp and rice

A style of long-sleeved kimono often worn by young, unmarried women, featuring bright colors, intricate patterns, and flowing silk fabric

A traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used for wrapping gifts, carrying items, or as a decorative piece

A famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto known for its thousands of red torii gates that create a network of paths up Mount Inari

A traditional Japanese bedding consisting of a thin mattress that can be easily folded and stored away during the day

A form of Japanese classical music performed at the imperial court and other ceremonial occasions, featuring a variety of instruments, vocal styles, and dance elements

A Japanese fashion trend from the 1990s characterized by dark tans, bleached hair, and colorful makeup

Highly skilled Japanese entertainers trained in traditional arts, including music, dance, and conversation

The traditional Japanese entryway where shoes are removed before entering a home

Traditional Japanese wooden sandals often worn with yukata or kimono

A famous Japanese festival held annually in Kyoto, featuring elaborate floats, traditional music, and various events throughout the month of July

A Japanese concept of social obligation and duty, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's responsibilities

A strategic board game of Japanese origin played by two players who take turns placing black and white stones on a grid

A series of national holidays in Japan that occur within one week, usually at the end of April and beginning of May

A type of stamp or calligraphy often collected by visitors to Japanese shrines and temples, featuring the name of the location and other unique elements, serving as a keepsake or record of one's travels

A Japanese fashion subculture characterized by tanned skin, light-colored hair, and bold makeup, often associated with a focus on personal style and individuality

A traditional Japanese art form of making fish prints, originally used by fishermen to record their catches

Japanese pan-fried dumplings typically filled with ground meat and vegetables

A form of Japanese poetry consisting of three lines with a 5-7-5 syllable pattern, often focusing on nature and seasonal themes

A traditional Japanese garment resembling a pleated skirt or wide-legged pants, often worn over a kimono by samurai, students, and on formal occasions

A set of Japanese playing cards featuring floral motifs, often used for a variety of games and associated with gambling and leisure activities

A type of dango often served during cherry-blossom season, featuring three-colored dumplings (pink, white, and green) on a skewer symbolizing the colors of spring

The Japanese tradition of viewing and appreciating cherry blossoms during spring

A traditional Japanese game similar to badminton, played with a wooden paddle and a shuttlecock, often enjoyed during the New Year holidays

A district in Tokyo known for its unique fashion and youth culture

A period of Japanese history (794–1185) known for its flourishing of literature, art, and court culture, and the development of distinct Japanese styles

A period of Japanese history (794–1185) known for its artistic achievements, including literature, poetry, and calligraphy

A period of Japanese history (1989–2019) marked by peace, prosperity, and a focus on quality

Day-trip hot springs where visitors can enjoy bathing without staying overnight at a traditional inn

A social phenomenon in Japan involving individuals withdrawing from society and spending extended periods in isolation, often due to social pressures, mental health issues, or other factors

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Himeji Castle is a well-preserved example of Japanese castle architecture and is often called the White Heron Castle due to its elegant design

A Japanese festival, also known as Girls’ Day, celebrated on March 3rd, featuring displays of traditional dolls, special foods, and other customs aimed at promoting the happiness and well-being of young girls

A Japanese cypress tree valued for its fragrant, durable wood, often used in the construction of temples, shrines, and traditional bathtubs

A famous Japanese artist and printmaker from the Edo period, best known for his woodblock print series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji

A Japanese martial art focused on the smooth, controlled movements of drawing, cutting, and sheathing a sword

The Japanese art of flower arranging, emphasizing balance, harmony, and simplicity

A type of Japanese porcelain originating from the Arita region, known for its colorful designs and intricate patterns

A Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Inari, often featuring numerous red torii gates, stone fox statues, and offerings of fried tofu believed to bring prosperity and success in business

A type of sushi featuring seasoned rice stuffed into deep-fried tofu pockets, often served at celebrations or offered as a votive offering at Inari shrines

A casual Japanese pub where people enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere

The Japanese version of Rock-Paper-Scissors, used as a simple decision-making tool or game with the same basic rules and hand gestures as the international version

A genre of Japanese film and television set during the Edo period or earlier, often featuring samurai, ninjas, and other historical figures, and exploring themes of honor, loyalty, and conflict

A traditional Japanese steaming method using natural hot spring steam to cook food, often found in the Beppu region

A popular bodhisattva in Japanese Buddhism, often depicted as a small stone monk statue, believed to protect travelers, children, and those suffering in the afterlife

A prehistoric period in Japanese history characterized by its pottery, hunter-gatherer lifestyle, and the development of early settlements

Japanese popular music encompassing a wide variety of musical styles and genres

A Japanese martial art and Olympic sport that emphasizes throws and grappling techniques

Private after-school tutoring institutions in Japan offering supplementary education to help students prepare for entrance exams

A Japanese variety of winter squash often used in soups, tempura, and other dishes for its sweet, nutty flavor and smooth, firm texture

A traditional Japanese theater form known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and exaggerated acting

A traditional Japanese New Year decoration consisting of two stacked rice cakes topped with a citrus fruit, symbolizing the continuity of the family and the presence of deities

A sacred Shinto dance performed at shrines and festivals, accompanied by traditional music and costumes

A traditional Japanese multi-course meal showcasing the chef’s skills and the season’s finest ingredients, often served at ryokan (Japanese inns) or high-end restaurants

A type of sushi restaurant where dishes are served on a conveyor belt, allowing customers to choose their own selections

A Japanese business philosophy emphasizing continuous improvement through small, incremental changes

A traditional Japanese cookstove often made from ceramic materials and fueled by charcoal, used for cooking rice and other dishes

A historic city in Japan known for its ancient temples, shrines, the Great Buddha statue, and as the former capital of the Kamakura shogunate

A period of Japanese history (1185–1333) marked by the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate and the rise of samurai culture

A small household Shinto altar where offerings are made to the family’s ancestral spirits and the gods of the home

A form of Japanese street theater and storytelling using illustrated paper scrolls to narrate the story

The divine spirits or gods in Shintoism, which can be found in elements of nature, animals, and even people

Traditional Japanese hair ornaments often worn with kimono or other formal attire, made from a variety of materials such as wood, metal, or fabric

A type of conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Japan featuring a rotating display of sushi plates, allowing customers to choose their preferred dishes as they pass by

A form of traditional Japanese mechanical puppetry often used in religious festivals, tea-serving ceremonies, or other performances, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and creative engineering

A popular form of entertainment in Japan involving singing along to recorded music with lyrics displayed on a screen, often enjoyed in bars, clubs, or private rooms

A Japanese martial art that focuses on striking techniques using the hands, feet, knees, and elbows

A dry landscape garden often found in Zen temples, consisting of carefully arranged rocks, sand, and gravel

Death from overwork, a phenomenon affecting Japanese workers due to excessive work demands and stress

A traditional Japanese card game often played with picture and poetry cards testing the players’ memory, reflexes, and knowledge of classical literature

A traditional Japanese sword characterized by its single-edged curved blade and often associated with samurai warriors and martial arts

A Japanese rice bowl dish featuring breaded and fried pork cutlet, egg, and a savory sauce served over steamed rice

Dried, fermented, and smoked skipjack tuna used as a key ingredient in Japanese cuisine, often shaved into thin flakes for topping dishes or making dashi soup stock

A traditional Japanese hairstyle often worn by women in the past, characterized by elaborate arrangements of long hair, ornaments, and decorative combs

A Japanese term meaning “cute” or “adorable,” often used to describe a wide range of cultural phenomena from fashion and art to food and consumer goods

A system of honorific language in Japanese used to show respect, humility, or politeness depending on the social context and the relationship between speakers

Post–World War II Japanese corporate groups characterized by cross-shareholding and close business relationships

A traditional Japanese skill toy consisting of a wooden handle with a ball connected by a string, used to perform various tricks and maneuvers

A modern Japanese martial art that focuses on sword fighting using bamboo swords and protective armor

Traditional Japanese clothing characterized by its T-shaped, straight-lined robes

The Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or platinum, highlighting the beauty of imperfection

The Japanese art of repairing broken pottery using lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or platinum, similar to kintsugi but with a focus on functional repair

A historical region in Japan now part of Wakayama Prefecture known for its production of high-quality tea and traditional crafts

A paradoxical anecdote or question used in Zen Buddhism to provoke doubt and test a practitioner’s progress in meditation

The Japanese art of appreciating incense, involving the careful selection, burning, and enjoyment of fragrant woods, often practiced in a ceremonial context

A period of Japanese history (300–538 CE) characterized by large burial mounds and the emergence of a centralized state

Carp-shaped windsocks traditionally flown in Japan to celebrate Children’s Day, symbolizing strength, perseverance, and the hope for a successful future

A Japanese form of gardening featuring plants grown in moss-covered soil balls, often suspended from strings or displayed on a tray, combining elements of bonsai and ikebana

Wooden dolls originating from northern Japan, characterized by their simple design and lack of arms or legs

Guardian statues often found at the entrance of Japanese shrines, usually depicted as lion-dog creatures believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the sacred grounds

Japanese convenience stores offering a wide range of products and services from prepared foods and snacks to ATMs and bill payment options, known for their ubiquity and customer-friendly atmosphere

A low heated table covered with a blanket, commonly used in Japanese homes as a source of warmth and a gathering place for family members

A traditional Japanese stringed instrument featuring 13 strings and movable bridges, often played with finger picks and used in various genres of Japanese music from classical to contemporary

A concept in Japanese spirituality emphasizing the power of words to influence reality, often reflected in rituals, prayers, and other forms of spoken or written communication

A traditional Japanese braiding technique often used to create decorative cords and tassels for kimono obi or other accessories

A regional specialty of Hakone, Japan, featuring eggs hard-boiled in hot springs, turning the shells black and imparting a unique flavor, believed to extend one’s life by seven years

A traditional Japanese paper model typically constructed from multiple folded paper units, often used as a decorative ornament or given as a gift for special occasions

A form of traditional Japanese theater characterized by its comic themes, exaggerated acting, and humorous dialogue, often performed as interludes during Nō plays

The Japanese martial art of archery emphasizing mental focus and spiritual growth

A Japanese fashion subculture inspired by Victorian and Rococo styles, characterized by frilly dresses and accessories

Apprentice geisha, typically distinguished by their elaborate hairstyles, makeup, and brightly colored kimonos

A common Japanese figurine, also known as the beckoning cat, believed to bring good luck and fortune to its owner

Japanese comics covering a broad range of subjects and appealing to diverse audiences

A form of Japanese stand-up comedy featuring a duo of comedians engaged in a rapid-fire exchange of jokes and witty banter

A finely ground bright-green tea powder used in Japanese tea ceremonies and as a flavoring in various foods

A period of Japanese history (1868–1912) characterized by rapid modernization, the restoration of imperial rule, and the opening of Japan to the West

A period of rapid modernization and westernization in Japan beginning in 1868, which transformed the country from a feudal society into a modern nation-state

A pair of sacred rocks in the ocean near Ise, Japan, connected by a shimenawa rope, symbolizing the union of the gods Izanagi and Izanami, often visited by couples seeking blessings for their relationships

A movement in Japanese arts and crafts celebrating the beauty of everyday functional objects and promoting the preservation and appreciation of traditional craftsmanship

A traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans, often used in soups, sauces, and other dishes

A Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice, often filled with sweet bean paste and enjoyed during various celebrations and festivals

The process of pounding steamed rice to make mochi, a sticky glutinous rice cake, often involving a large wooden mallet, a mortar, and teamwork during traditional celebrations

The Japanese tradition of viewing and appreciating the colorful autumn foliage, particularly maple leaves

Japanese family crests, often used to identify and represent a family lineage, and sometimes found on kimono, architecture, and other decorative items

The Japanese concept of craftsmanship focusing on continuous improvement and attention to detail in the manufacturing process

A period of Japanese history (1336–1573) marked by political upheaval, the rise of regional warlords, and the development of cultural forms such as tea ceremony, Nō theater, and ink painting

A period of Japanese history (1336–1573) characterized by political upheaval, the development of Zen Buddhism, and cultural achievements in art and architecture

A Japanese hot-pot dish often prepared at the table, featuring a variety of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and tofu simmered in a flavorful broth

A traditional Japanese New Year’s event in which performers dressed as ogre-like deities visit homes to scare away evil spirits and admonish laziness

A traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans, known for its strong smell, sticky texture, and distinctive flavor

A Japanese summer festival held in Aomori Prefecture known for its massive illuminated floats depicting mythological and historical figures

New Year’s greeting cards traditionally sent in Japan to wish friends and family a happy New Year

Small intricately carved toggles used to secure the cords of inrō (traditional Japanese cases) to a kimono sash

A style of Japanese painting using traditional materials and techniques, often depicting subjects such as landscapes, birds, and flowers in a naturalistic style

The Japanese term for what is commonly referred to as sake in English, meaning Japanese liquor

The Japanese stock market index measuring the performance of major companies listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange

A Japanese comfort food featuring simmered meat (usually beef or pork), potatoes, onions, and other vegetables in a sweet and savory broth, often served with rice

Covert agents in feudal Japan skilled in espionage, sabotage, and assassination

A traditional Japanese weaving technique from the Nishijin district in Kyoto known for its intricate patterns and high-quality textiles

A classical Japanese theatrical form characterized by its use of masks, stylized movement, and poetic language

Fabric dividers hung at the entrance of shops, restaurants, or homes in Japan, often displaying the establishment’s name or logo

A Japanese boxed lunch prepared for special occasions such as picnics, parties, or school events

A wide sash used to secure a kimono, typically tied in elaborate knots and styles

A Japanese Buddhist festival held in mid-summer honoring the spirits of deceased ancestors, featuring rituals, offerings, and traditional dances

A Japanese comfort food featuring various ingredients such as fish cakes, tofu, and vegetables simmered in a savory broth, often enjoyed during cold weather or as a late-night snack

A deep wooden soaking tub used in Japanese bathing rituals

A historical parade featuring oiran (high-ranking courtesans) dressed in elaborate costumes and accompanied by their attendants

High-ranking courtesans in the pleasure quarters of Edo-period Japan, known for their beauty, artistic skills, and elaborate dress

Small stone statues often found near Japanese temples and roadsides representing Jizō Bosatsu, a Buddhist deity who protects travelers and children

A savory Japanese pancake made with a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, and seafood cooked on a griddle

Japanese amulets often purchased at shrines or temples, believed to provide protection, good luck, or other blessings, and commonly hung on bags, car mirrors, or other personal items

Fortunes written on strips of paper, often found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan

The Japanese custom of buying souvenirs or gifts for friends and family when traveling

The Japanese term for toys, including traditional toys and games as well as modern playthings

The Japanese concept of hospitality characterized by attention to detail, anticipation of guests’ needs, and a genuine desire to make visitors feel welcome and comfortable

A decorative roof tile often found on traditional Japanese buildings, featuring the face of an ogre or other mythical creature believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the structure

A Japanese rice ball often filled with ingredients such as pickled plum, salmon, or tuna and wrapped in seaweed, popular as a portable snack or light meal

Natural hot springs in Japan, often developed into public bathhouses or ryokan (traditional inns)

A variety of traditional Japanese foods often served in multi-tiered boxes during the New Year’s holiday, each dish symbolizing a specific wish or blessing for the coming year

A variety of traditional Japanese dishes prepared for the New Year’s celebration, each with its own symbolic meaning

The Japanese New Year celebration observed from January 1st to 3rd, featuring various customs, rituals, and festive foods

Enthusiasts of Japanese pop culture, often with a particular focus on anime, manga, or video games

A Japanese dish consisting of chicken and egg simmered in a sweet and savory sauce and served over rice

A traditional Japanese pottery technique characterized by hand-formed tea bowls and a unique firing process

A traditional Japanese form of storytelling featuring a lone performer sitting on stage using minimal props and voice changes to narrate humorous, dramatic, or sentimental tales

A popular Japanese noodle dish typically served with a rich broth and various toppings

The current period of Japanese history (2019–present), characterized by a new imperial era, technological advancements, and a focus on cultural exchange and global cooperation

A type of hexagonal kite popular in Japan for its stability and ease of flight, often used for kite fighting or other recreational activities

A samurai without a master or employment during Japan’s feudal era, often depicted as wandering swords-for-hire or bandits

A traditional Japanese inn characterized by its tatami-matted rooms, communal baths, and personalized service, often serving kaiseki meals to guests

The Japanese tea ceremony, a formal ritual involving the preparation and serving of matcha green tea, emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility

A traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice

A term referring to white-collar Japanese workers, often characterized by long working hours and company loyalty

The military nobility of feudal Japan known for their martial prowess and strict adherence to bushido

A major annual festival in Tokyo held in honor of the three founders of Senso-ji Temple, featuring processions, traditional music, and energetic mikoshi (portable shrine) carrying

A policy during the Edo period requiring daimyō to spend alternate years in the capital of Edo and their home domains as a means of maintaining loyalty and control over the feudal lords

A Japanese term meaning a leisurely walk or stroll, often used to describe the act of exploring neighborhoods or nature at a relaxed pace

A traditional Japanese embroidery technique characterized by its use of white thread on indigo fabric, often used for mending or reinforcing textiles

A Japanese term for spiritual enlightenment or awakening, often used in Zen Buddhism

A Japanese national holiday celebrating young people who turn 20 during the year

A formal Japanese sitting posture involving kneeling with the legs folded beneath the body and the hands resting on the thighs, often used during tea ceremonies, martial arts, and other traditional activities

A popular type of Japanese green tea characterized by its delicate flavor and aroma

A period of Japanese history marked by social upheaval, political intrigue, and constant warfare between powerful daimyō, leading to the eventual unification of Japan

Public bathhouses in Japan often featuring communal soaking tubs and washing areas

A Japanese festival held in February marking the beginning of spring and involving the ritual of bean throwing to drive away evil spirits

A traditional Japanese bamboo flute often used in Zen Buddhist meditation and traditional music

A traditional Japanese textile dyeing technique involving various methods of folding, twisting, or tying fabric to create intricate patterns

A traditional Japanese festival celebrating the growth and well-being of children aged three, five, and seven

A form of Zen meditation emphasizing the practice of just sitting without any specific focus or goal, allowing the mind to become fully present and aware of itself

A 1,200-kilometer pilgrimage route that visits 88 temples on the island of Shikoku, associated with the Buddhist monk Kōbō Daishi

A variety of edible mushrooms native to Japan, often used in soups, stir-fries, and other dishes for their firm texture and mild earthy flavor

A traditional Japanese New Year’s decoration made of rope, ferns, and other auspicious materials hung on doors to ward off evil spirits

Long-established Japanese businesses, often family-owned and passed down through generations, preserving traditional craftsmanship and techniques

The Japanese high-speed railway system, also known as the bullet train, known for its punctuality, efficiency, and comfort

A type of Japanese decorative metalwork using various techniques to create intricate designs on sword fittings, armor, and other items

The indigenous religion of Japan centered on the worship of nature spirits and ancestors

A traditional Okinawan guardian statue often found on rooftops or at the entrance of homes and businesses, resembling a cross between a lion and a dog, believed to protect against evil spirits and bring good fortune

A traditional Japanese bamboo water feature often found in gardens or near tea houses, designed to scare away deer and other animals with its rhythmic clacking sound

A traditional Japanese lion dance performed at festivals and other celebrations, featuring a large colorful lion costume and accompanied by drums, flutes, and bells

A Japanese distilled alcoholic beverage typically made from ingredients like barley, sweet potatoes, or rice, often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed with other beverages

The Japanese art of calligraphy emphasizing the beauty and expressiveness of written characters, often practiced as a form of meditation, self-discipline, or artistic expression

A traditional Japanese board game similar to chess, involving two players and a variety of pieces with different movements and abilities

A military government in feudal Japan led by a shōgun, the de facto ruler of the country

A type of vegetarian cuisine traditionally served in Buddhist temples in Japan, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and mindful eating

Traditional Japanese sliding doors made of wood and paper, used to divide rooms or provide privacy

A period of Japanese history (1926–1989) characterized by militarism, World War II, postwar reconstruction, and rapid economic growth

A stamp or seal given at temples and shrines in Japan, often collected in a special book by pilgrims and visitors as a record of their spiritual journey

A genre of Japanese erotic art often found in ukiyo-e prints and paintings

A type of thin Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour, often served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a savory broth, and enjoyed for its unique texture and earthy flavor

A style of Japanese ink painting emphasizing simplicity, elegance, and the harmony of natural elements, often practiced as a form of meditation or self-expression

A traditional Japanese sport where two wrestlers attempt to force each other out of a circular ring or to touch the ground with any body part other than their feet

A traditional Japanese dish featuring seasoned rice and raw fish or other ingredients

Traditional Japanese socks with a split between the big toe and other toes, often worn with zōri or geta sandals

A fictional robotic character from the Ghost in the Shell anime and manga series, featuring a spider-like design, artificial intelligence, and various weapons and capabilities

Traditional Japanese drums used in various cultural, religious, and musical contexts

A period of Japanese history (1912–1926) marked by political liberalization, cultural experimentation, and the influence of Western ideas and fashions

A mythical treasure ship in Japanese folklore often depicted as a large ornate vessel carrying various symbols of good fortune and wealth

A popular Japanese street food consisting of fried balls of batter filled with diced octopus and topped with various sauces and condiments

A Japanese rolled omelette often made with a special rectangular frying pan and featuring layers of seasoned egg cooked to a firm, slightly sweet consistency

A Japanese festival held in July celebrating the meeting of two star-crossed lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair

A form of traditional Japanese poetry consisting of five lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5-7-7, often used to express emotions, observations, or personal experiences

A raccoon dog native to Japan, often featured in folklore and art as a mischievous shape-shifting creature and sometimes depicted as a good luck charm or humorous statue

Traditional Japanese floor mats made of woven straw, used for flooring in homes and some traditional establishments

Traditional Japanese rice straw bales often used for storing, transporting, or measuring rice, and sometimes used as a symbol of abundance and prosperity

A traditional Japanese ritual involving the preparation and presentation of matcha tea, emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility

A traditional Japanese handball made from silk or cotton thread, often used as a decorative ornament or as a toy for children

A Japanese dish consisting of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried

A versatile Japanese cotton cloth used for a variety of purposes—from wiping sweat or cleaning surfaces to wrapping items—and often featuring decorative patterns or designs

A traditional Japanese handmade doll often hung by the window to wish for good weather

A type of Japanese folding fan often made with metal ribs and reinforced materials, sometimes used as a weapon or defensive tool by samurai and other warriors, as well as a symbol of authority and prestige

A protein-rich food made from coagulated soy milk, often used in Japanese cuisine as a substitute for meat and available in a variety of textures and flavors

A recessed alcove found in traditional Japanese rooms, often displaying a scroll, flower arrangement, or other decorative items

Also known as the Edo period (1603–1868), a time of relative peace and stability in Japan under the Tokugawa shogunate

The last feudal military government in Japan (1603–1868), which maintained a strict social hierarchy, closed the country to foreign influence, and fostered a flourishing of the arts and urban culture

A traditional Japanese gate often found at the entrance of Shinto shrines, symbolizing the boundary between the sacred and the profane and sometimes painted in a distinctive vermilion color

A handguard for Japanese swords, often featuring intricate designs and craftsmanship

A Japanese noodle dish in which cold ramen noodles are dipped into a separate bowl of hot, concentrated broth before eating, often served with a variety of toppings and condiments

A Japanese festival held in September celebrating the beauty of the full moon with offerings and decorations

A stone basin found in Japanese gardens or at the entrance of tea houses, used for ritual handwashing and symbolizing purification and mindfulness

A type of yōkai from Japanese folklore believed to be objects that have come to life after 100 years of existence, often depicted with anthropomorphic features and mischievous behaviors

A series of large ocean waves typically caused by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides, which have had significant historical impact on Japan

A type of thick, chewy Japanese noodle made from wheat flour, often served in a savory broth or with a dipping sauce and accompanied by a variety of toppings such as tempura, green onions, or grated daikon

A Japanese term meaning "the floating world," originally describing the pleasure-seeking urban lifestyle of the Edo period and later associated with the ukiyo-e genre of art

A genre of Japanese woodblock prints and paintings depicting scenes from everyday life, landscapes, and historical events

Pickled, salted Japanese plums often eaten with rice or used as a flavoring in various dishes

The Japanese plum or apricot, often used in pickling, liqueurs, and traditional medicine, and celebrated for its early spring blossoms

A Japanese music and fashion subculture characterized by flamboyant clothing, elaborate makeup, and androgynous styles

A Japanese aesthetic concept that embraces the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity

A traditional Japanese umbrella made from bamboo and oiled paper or cloth, often used in tea ceremonies, weddings, and other special occasions

Traditional Japanese sweets often served during tea ceremonies or as a dessert

A term referring to several breeds of Japanese cattle known for their high-quality marbled meat, often used in dishes such as sukiyaki and shabu-shabu

The Japanese term for the ethnic majority in Japan, often used to distinguish from other ethnic groups such as the Ainu or Ryūkyūans

A traditional form of Japanese poetry which includes various forms such as tanka and haiku

A traditional Japanese sweet made from bracken starch, typically served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Straw sandals traditionally worn by Japanese farmers and travelers, featuring a simple, durable design and adjustable straps for a comfortable fit

A traditional Japanese-style room featuring tatami mat flooring, sliding paper doors, and minimal furnishings, often used for tea ceremonies, meditation, or entertaining guests

A traditional Japanese mounted archery involving shooting arrows at targets while riding a horse at full gallop, often performed as a demonstration of skill and spiritual discipline

A traditional Japanese street food featuring roasted sweet potatoes often cooked over an open flame or in a stone oven and enjoyed as a warm, nutritious snack

A popular Japanese stir-fried noodle dish often made with thin wheat noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce, and served at festivals or as a fast-casual meal

A popular Japanese dish consisting of grilled chicken skewers often served at izakayas and street food stalls

A traditional Japanese painting style characterized by its use of native Japanese subjects and techniques, often depicting scenes from literature, history, and the natural world

A Japanese term referring to the idealized image of a gentle, graceful, and demure Japanese woman, often associated with traditional feminine virtues

Mobile food stalls in Japan selling a variety of street food from yakitori and takoyaki to ramen and sweets, often appearing during festivals or in designated areas

A prehistoric period in Japanese history marked by the introduction of rice agriculture, metalworking, and the emergence of social hierarchy

A period of Japanese history (300 BCE–300 CE) marked by the introduction of rice cultivation, metalworking, and pottery

A unit of distance in ancient India and East Asia used in Japanese literature and historical documents

A class of supernatural beings from Japanese folklore including monsters, spirits, and other strange creatures often possessing unique powers, characteristics, and stories

Narrow, atmospheric alleyways in Japanese cities often lined with small bars, eateries, and shops offering a glimpse into local life and culture

Traditional Japanese armor worn by samurai, consisting of a helmet, mask, and various protective plates

A modern Japanese dance style combining traditional elements with modern music, costumes, and choreography, often performed at festivals and competitions across the country

A casual, unlined summer kimono made of cotton, often worn at festivals, hot springs, or informal occasions

Ghosts in Japanese folklore often depicted with long, flowing hair and white clothing associated with unresolved emotions or attachments to the world of the living

A fragrant citrus fruit native to Japan, often used in cooking, cocktails, and traditional medicine, valued for its tart flavor and aromatic zest

Pre–World War II Japanese conglomerates which controlled major industries and wielded significant political influence

Seated meditation practiced in Zen Buddhism focusing on posture, breathing, and mindfulness

A school of Japanese Buddhism emphasizing meditation, mindfulness, and self-discipline

A minimalist Japanese garden style characterized by carefully arranged rocks, sand, and moss intended for meditation and contemplation

Traditional Japanese sandals often worn with kimono or yukata, featuring a flat sole and fabric thong straps providing comfort and protection on various surfaces