Wa (harmony) in Japanese culture has many aspects, but broadly speaking, it represents a state of harmony, coordination, peace, and balance. In Japan, the emphasis is on individual people and groups living together in harmony with one another. This concept permeates Japanese society and culture as a whole, and is reflected in the behavior and values of the Japanese people, as well as in their architecture and art.
Specifically, it has the following characteristics
- Emphasis on relationships: In Japan, harmony and cooperation among people are emphasized. Group interests and community stability may take precedence over individual interests.
- Harmony with Nature: Harmony with nature is another important concept of “wa. The changing of nature from season to season is valued, and a lifestyle and culture that is in harmony with the rhythms of nature has taken root.
- Aesthetics and Balance: Wa is also evident in the Japanese aesthetic. Beautiful balance and simplicity are valued and can be seen in architecture, gardens, art, cuisine, and many other aspects.
- Courtesy and manners: In social situations, courtesy and manners are important to maintain harmony and harmony with others. They serve as a means for people to respect each other and avoid unnecessary friction.
- Japanese Food: Traditional Japanese food culture also reflects the concept of “wa” (harmony). It emphasizes the balance of seasonal ingredients and seasonings, as well as the beauty of the presentation.
These elements combine to form the “wa” of Japanese culture.
Since Japan is an island nation, it is thought that the continental culture that came from the west reached a dead end in Japan, and the ancient Japanese culture and the continental culture combined to form the culture of “Wa” (harmony).
Wa” also means “solution to addition” in Japanese. It can be said to be a culture formed by adding the good points of each culture.
A typical characteristic is found in the Japanese language. The Japanese language has three types of characters alone: hiragana, katakana, and kanji.
If you walk down the street, for example, you will see that these characters are all over the place. There is no other country in the world like Japan.
わびさび
Wabi-sabi” is a term used to describe the Japanese aesthetic and spirituality, a concept that expresses a unique aesthetic sense and way of life. It is considered an important concept in culture, mainly in the tea ceremony, Japanese art, and literature.
Wabi” means simplicity, simplicity, and sophistication, while “sabi” means loneliness, desolation, or modesty and humility. Together, “wabi-sabi” is a concept that celebrates subtle, quiet beauty and simple beauty that is appropriate to one’s stature, rather than opulence and splendor.
In the world of tea ceremony, it is considered important to avoid unnecessary extravagance and flamboyance, and to pursue a simple yet heartfelt beauty. Wabi-sabi” is also interpreted as a philosophy of life and a way of living, and is widely accepted as a way of thinking that values spirituality and richness of heart over material things.
Typical symbols of “wabi sabi” culture are often associated with the tea ceremony and chanoyu. Specific symbols include the following
- Chashitsu: In the tea ceremony, emphasis is placed on the simple and plain teahouse. Chashitsu value the simplicity and natural beauty of the teahouse while paying close attention to materials, structure, and décor.
- Tea utensils: Tea bowls, tea kettles, tea scoops, and other tea utensils are often simple, yet delicate and beautiful. They are characterized by their simple materials and textures, and each one is steeped in history and tradition.
- Chakai: At a tea ceremony, where the tea ceremony is enjoyed, the emphasis is on a harmonious atmosphere in a simple space. Through simple tea rooms and tea utensils, tea masters express harmony with nature and chic beauty.
- Chanoyu no Gishiki: Chanoyu rituals are occasions in traditional Japanese culture where the spirit of “wabi and sabi” is especially evident. In the rituals of the tea ceremony, through simple sweets and humble tea bowls, one can feel the spirit of a lifetime and the transience of things.
These elements combine in the tea ceremony to symbolize the spirit of “wabi and sabi.
In terms of the emotional aspect, Japanese people find the sight of cherry blossoms falling more attractive than the sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom. In other words, they find the incomplete form of cherry blossoms more attractive than the perfect form.
Looking at old buildings, for example, Horyu-ji Temple, each individual building is well-balanced, but the buildings are arranged asymmetrically.
It is a culture that appreciates uneven shapes more than symmetrical ones.
By learning about the underlying culture of Japan in this way, you will be able to experience sightseeing from a new perspective.