Category: Cited Sources

Akira Kurosawa on set.

Akira Kurosawa, the Legendary Film Director from Japan

For film lovers worldwide, Akira Kurosawa (1910-1998)  is a name that will forever be held in honor and the utmost respect. Arguably the greatest Japanese filmmaker to have lived, Kurosawa was more than just a popular director; he was the driving force that helped open the Western world to Japanese filmmaking. 

A low table in front of a scroll of Japanese poetry.

Japanese Poetry: A Look at the Art of Words

Japanese poetry has enchanted readers for centuries with its elegance, emotional depth, and vivid imagery. Whether carved into wooden tablets or passed down through song, poetry has always played an important role in Japan’s cultural history.

A bowl of rafute (braised pork) soba, a major dish in the Okinawa diet.

Okinawa Diet and Lifestyle: Why Is It So Effective?

Okinawa Island is a group of tropical islands in the south of Japan. It’s known for its beaches, culture, and how long people live there. Many people in Okinawa live to be over 100 years old! That’s why it’s called one of the world’s Blue Zones, where people live much longer and healthier lives than most.

A Showa era town in Japan.

Showa Era: Why Do People in Japan Still Love It?

The Showa era in Japan lasted from 1926 to 1989—more than six decades of history packed with change, resilience, and growth. Although it ended over thirty years ago, the Showa era is still everywhere in Japan today.

A geigi (geisha) in full makeup in Niigata City.

Niigata City Geigi: The Geisha You May Not Know About!

Kyoto and Tokyo are famous for their geisha. But did you know that geisha also exist outside of these two areas? They cultivated their regional customs and styles far from the imperial capital. One such type of performer was the geigi of Niigata City.