The shamisen is a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument, similar to a banjo, played with a large plectrum called a bachi. It originated in Okinawa and was introduced to the rest of Japan in the 16th century. The body of the shamisen used to be covered with cat or dog skin, but synthetic materials are now commonly used.
The instrument plays a central role in several Japanese musical genres, including kabuki (dance theatre) and bunraku (puppet theatre).
2. Sashimi
Answer: fish dish
Sashimi is a Japanese delicacy that displays the purity and flavour of raw fish or seafood. The word "sashimi" translates to "pierced body", referring to the preparation method of slicing the fish. It is typically served with soy sauce, wasabi and garnishes such as shredded daikon radish. Common types of sashimi include tuna, salmon, octopus and prawns. Unlike sushi, sashimi is served without rice, so the freshness and quality of the seafood take centre stage.
3. Noh
Answer: music theatre
Noh is one of Japan's oldest performing arts, dating back to the 14th century. It combines music, dance and drama, and is known for its minimalist sets and the use of masks to represent different characters. Noh plays often explore themes of supernatural beings, historical events and moral dilemmas.
The slow, deliberate movements of the actors, accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the flute and drums, create a hypnotic and contemplative atmosphere. Noh theatre has been declared a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
4. Kotoku-in
Answer: Buddhist temple
Kotoku-in is a renowned Buddhist temple in Kamakura, Japan, famous for its Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Amida Buddha. The statue stands about 43.8 feet (13.35 metres) tall and weighs about 93 tonnes. It was originally built in the mid-13th century and has survived several natural disasters.
The serene and majestic presence of the Great Buddha attracts visitors from all over the world, making Kotoku-in a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in Japan.
5. Sokutai
Answer: ceremonial robe
The sokutai is a traditional and elaborate ceremonial robe worn by Japanese emperors, aristocrats and high-ranking officials during important state and religious ceremonies. The sokutai ensemble consists of several layers of clothing, a crown and various accessories, each with a symbolic meaning.
The design and colours of the sokutai are carefully regulated and reflect the wearer's rank and status. In use since the Heian period (794-1185), it is a testament to Japan's rich heritage of courtly traditions and rituals.
6. Bunraku
Answer: puppet theatre
Bunraku is a form of traditional Japanese puppet theatre that dates back to the 17th century. It features large, intricate puppets that require three puppeteers to manipulate: one for the head and right hand, another for the left hand, and a third for the feet.
The puppeteers are usually visible on stage and dressed in black. The performances are accompanied by narrators (tayu), who provide the voices and the story, and shamisen players, who add musical accompaniment. Bunraku is recognised as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and demonstrates Japan's rich tradition of storytelling and craftsmanship.
7. Shinkansen
Answer: high-speed train
The Shinkansen, also known as the "bullet train", is Japan's high-speed rail network, which began operating in 1964. It is renowned for its speed, safety and punctuality, with trains reaching speeds of up to 200 mph (320 km/h). The Shinkansen network connects major cities across Japan, significantly reducing travel time and stimulating economic growth.
The sleek, aerodynamic design of the trains, together with their comfortable and efficient service, has made the Shinkansen a symbol of modern Japan and its technological advances.
8. Origami
Answer: paper folding
Origami is the traditional Japanese art of folding paper to create various shapes and figures, often resembling animals, flowers and other objects. The practice of origami involves transforming a flat sheet of paper into a finished sculpture through folding techniques without cutting or gluing.
The art form dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868) and has evolved over time to become popular worldwide as both a cultural art and a mathematical challenge. Origami not only represents creativity and precision, but also reflects the Japanese values of patience and attention to detail.
9. Furoshiki
Answer: wrapping cloth
Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth used to wrap and transport goods. Originating in the Edo period, furoshiki were initially used to bundle clothing while at public baths. The versatile cloth can be folded and tied in a variety of ways to create functional and decorative packaging, making it an environmentally-friendly alternative to disposable packaging. Furoshiki can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, cotton and synthetic fabrics, and often feature beautiful patterns and designs.
The practice of using furoshiki reflects the Japanese values of ingenuity and aesthetics.
10. Ikebana
Answer: flower arranging
Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, is more than just placing flowers in a container; it is a disciplined art form that brings nature and humanity together. In contrast to the decorative purposes of flower arranging in Western cultures, Ikebana emphasises minimalism, asymmetry and harmony between the arrangement and the container.
The practice of Ikebana dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and is associated with the Buddhist tradition of offering flowers to the spirits of the dead. Through its principles and techniques, Ikebana encourages mindfulness, creativity and an appreciation for the beauty of nature.
This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor trident before going online.
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