Night Sky - Japan Advent Calendar [10] Quiz

Osaka is the capital of the prefecture named after it and is one of Japan's largest cities. Known for its friendly locals, lively atmosphere, and rich culinary scene, Osaka is often referred to as the "Kitchen of Japan" due to its historical role as a hub for food distribution. It is also a city of immense historical and economic importance, with a legacy that stretches back nearly two millennia.

While archaeological evidence can find remains of settlements dating back over ten thousand years, the city gained prominence by the Kofun period and was a center for culture and politics even back then. Known then as Naniwa, the city served as an important port and was chosen as Japan's first capital. Its location on the sea and proximity to China and Korea allowed it to become a key gateway for trade and cultural exchange.

Rice trading furthered Osaka's development in the Muromachi Period. However, it was Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of the people responsible for the unification of Japan as a country, who consolidated power in the city. He built the Osaka Castle in 1583 and it was both a stronghold against attacks and a symbol of Hideyoshi's power. Although the political center of Japan moved to Edo (Tokyo) in the 17th century, Osaka maintained its status as a trading powerhouse. Food trade was centralized out of the city and it became known as "Tenka no Daidokoro", the nation's kitchen.

After recovering from World War II and the Allied bombings, Osaka added finance and manufacturing to its wheelhouse. It also hosted the first World's Fair held in Japan, Expo '70. Today, Osaka is still a commercial center in the country and home to numerous multinational corporations, including Panasonic, Sharp, and Daikin.

Nagoya, the capital of Aichi Prefecture, is Japan's fourth-largest city and a bustling metropolis. Strategically (or perhaps fortuitously) located between Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya is often referred to as the industrial heart of Japan, thanks to its significant role in manufacturing and innovation. However, it also boasts a rich historical and cultural legacy.

The area around Nagoya has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological finds indicating human activity during the Jōmon Period of about ten thousand years ago. By the Kofun Period (250-538 CE), the region was home to significant political and cultural activity. However, Nagoya's rise to prominence began in earnest during the early Edo Period. In 1610, Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, ordered the construction of Nagoya Castle to strengthen his clan's control over the area and to secure the vital Tōkaidō Road, which connected Edo (which is modern-day Tokyo) with Kyoto.

Like many Japanese cities, Nagoya suffered extensive damage during World War II due to Allied bombing. Much of its historical architecture, including Nagoya Castle, was destroyed. However, the city quickly rebuilt itself in the post-war era, becoming a leader in Japan's rapid economic growth. Nagoya Castle was reconstructed in 1959, and it remains one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Nagoya is synonymous with Japan's manufacturing prowess. It is home to major companies like Toyota, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and Brother Industries, and many more which have their roots in the region. However, Nagoya is also known for its cuisine - referred to as Nagoya-meshi. Delights like hitsumabushi, tebasaki, miso katsu, uiro, and kishimen all trace their origins back to Nagoya.

Located on the shores of the Sea of Japan, Niigata is the largest city in the Hokuriku region. Its geography is defined by its abundant water resources. The city is crisscrossed by several rivers, including the Shinano River, Japan's longest waterway, and the Agano River. Its coastal location and river networks have long made Niigata a center for transportation and trade. Even its name contains the reference to water - the meaning is 'new lagoon'.

Niigata has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological evidence indicating human settlement as far back as the Jōmon Period, more than ten thousand years ago. However, its prominence grew during the Edo Period, when it became a key port under the control of the Tokugawa shogunate. Its importance only increased in the Meiji Era, when Niigata was designated as one of the five ports to open to international trade under the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1858.

Niigata has faced several natural disasters throughout its history, including the Great Fire of Niigata in 1955, which destroyed much of the city. Additionally, the city experienced a powerful earthquake in 1964 which caused widespread liquefaction, further highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity. These events led to significant advancements in local urban planning and its application even in other Japanese cities.

Today, Niigata is synonymous with high-quality rice, often considered the best in Japan, thanks to its fertile soil and agreeable climate. The region is famous for its Koshihikari rice variety, which is also the foundation for its world-renowned sake.

Hiroshima, a major city located in the western part of Japan's Honshu island, is a city known worldwide for its tragic past and its remarkable transformation into a symbol of peace and resilience. Though its history stretches back centuries, Hiroshima is most often associated with the events of August 6, 1945, when it became the first city in history to suffer an atomic bombing. Since then, the city has recovered remarkably and actively promotes peace and an end to nuclear weapons.

However, Hiroshima's origins date back to 1589, when Mōri Terumoto, a feudal lord, established Hiroshima Castle and laid the foundation for the city. During the Edo Period, Hiroshima flourished as a castle town under the control of the Asano clan, becoming an important center for trade, culture, and governance. In the late 19th century, during the Meiji Restoration, Hiroshima grew into a significant industrial and military hub. It served as a key base for Japan's military operations during various conflicts, including the Sino-Japanese War and Russo-Japanese War.

After the Second World War, Hiroshima undertook a remarkable journey to rebuild. It was with the help of worldwide aid that the recovery efforts were possible; they slowly transformed the ruins into a symbol of hope and renewal. In 1949, Hiroshima was designated as a City of Peace and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was established on the site of the bombing's epicenter. This park includes several poignant landmarks, such as the Peace Memorial Museum, which educates visitors about the horrors of nuclear warfare, and the Children's Peace Monument, inspired by the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who died from radiation-induced leukemia. The monument is adorned with thousands of colourful paper cranes, symbolizing peace and hope.

On the western coast of Kyushu is the port of Nagasaki. Its prominence as a port city dates back to the 16th century when it became one of the first places in Japan to welcome European traders and missionaries. Portuguese merchants arrived in 1571, bringing not only trade goods but also Christianity. The city soon became a centre for missionary activity, with many locals converting to the new faith. During the Edo Period, Japan's rulers adopted a policy of isolation, but Nagasaki remained the exception. The small artificial island of Dejima served as the sole trading post for Dutch merchants, making Nagasaki a vital conduit for Western knowledge and goods.

Of course, one cannot talk about Nagasaki without remembering the second atomic bomb dropped in wartime. On August 9, 1945, the city became the target of the second atomic bombing, just three days after Hiroshima. It caused immense destruction and killed about 70,000 people directly by the end of the year, and affected even many more thousands indirectly. Despite this devastating event, Nagasaki has become a global symbol of peace and resilience. The Nagasaki Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum commemorate the victims and promote the message of nuclear disarmament. The Urakami Cathedral, destroyed in the bombing, has since been rebuilt and is a symbol of the resilience of the city's inhabitants.

Located on the southern tip of the island of Hokkaido, Hakodate is an important port city and one that played an important role in Japan opening up to Western culture. Its development began in earnest during the Edo Period (1603-1868) as a small fishing village. The city's significance grew in 1854, when it was one of the first Japanese ports to open to foreign trade under the Treaty of Kanagawa, marking the end of Japan's isolationist policy.

During the late Edo and early Meiji Periods, Hakodate became a melting pot of cultures. The city saw an influx of foreign merchants, diplomats, and missionaries. These foreign influences lead to the construction of Western-style buildings in the Motomachi District, a revolutionary idea at the time. In 1868, Hakodate was a key battleground in the Boshin War, with the Battle of Hakodate marking the fall of the last Tokugawa shogunate forces.

This battle can be commemorated at the Goryokaku, a star-shaped fortress built in the mid-19th century. Today, it is a national park and monument and is a great place to view the cherry blossoms that Japan is famous for. The city is also known for its fish market, especially the squid catch. This fish features heavily in the city's restaurants.

Fukuoka is the largest city on Japan's southern island of Kyushu. With its strategic coastal location, Fukuoka has long been a hub of cultural exchange, blending traditional Japanese elements with international influences. It has thousands of years of history, with archaeological evidence unearthing settlements dating back over ten thousand years. Fukuoka is particularly significant for its Yayoi Period discoveries. During this time, between 300 BCE to 300 CE, the area became a hub for early agriculture and metallurgy. Excavations in the city's Itazuke site have unearthed rice paddies, bronze tools, and pottery, highlighting Fukuoka's role in the early development of Japanese civilization.

Fukuoka also holds historical significance for its role in repelling the Mongol invasions in 1274 and 1281. Archaeological findings, including defensive walls and remains of Mongol ships off the coast, provide evidence of these pivotal battles, which were aided by the legendary "kamikaze" (divine wind) typhoons that helped drive back the invaders. These victories helped shape the Japanese identity and preserved their independence.

The modern city of Fukuoka was formed in 1889 by merging two towns: Fukuoka, the historic samurai district, and Hakata, a bustling merchant port. Even today, the area of Hakata retains a cultural identity within the greater city, especially associated with its lively festivals and cuisine. The city is known for the Hakata Gion Yamakasa. A festival, held every July, is one of Japan's most exhilarating events. Teams of men race through the streets carrying massive, elaborately decorated floats, drawing crowds of enthusiastic spectators.

Located in the heart of the Tōhoku region in northeastern Japan, Sendai is a city that can seamlessly blend its natural beauty with historical significance and modern urban life. Known as the City of Trees (Mori no Miyako), Sendai is famous for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. In 2011, Sendai was devastated by the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, one of the most powerful natural disasters in modern history. Hundreds of people were killed and thousands more were displaced, but the city showed it resilience and has already bounced back.

The history of the city dates back to 1600, when Date Masamune, a powerful samurai warlord, established the city as the capital of his domain. Often called the "One-Eyed Dragon" due to his losing an eye in battle, Masamune was known for his military prowess and forward-thinking governance. Under his leadership, Sendai flourished and became a cultural and economic center. Sendai Castle (also known as Aoba Castle) was built by Masamune on a hill overlooking the city. Although the original structure no longer stands, the castle ruins and nearby museum offer a glimpse into the city's feudal past. A statue of Date Masamune on horseback stands proudly at the site.

The city's streets are lined with zelkova trees, giving it a lush, green appearance year-round. One of the best places to enjoy this greenery is Jozenji-dori Avenue, a picturesque boulevard that serves as the venue for many of the city's festivals and events. In close proximity to the city is Matsushima Bay, one of Japan's top scenic spots. With islands covered in pines and ancient temples to visit, this has become a tourist magnet.

Located on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is a city with a relatively short history. It was established in 1868 as part of Japan's efforts to develop Hokkaido and protect its northern territories. Designed with a grid system inspired by American urban planning, Sapporo quickly grew into a modern city. Its most famous historical event came in 1972, when it hosted the Winter Olympics, the first ever held in Asia.

Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Sapporo is a gateway to Hokkaido's stunning natural beauty. Just a short trip from the city, you'll find the rugged peaks of Mount Moiwa and Mount Teine, perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Moerenuma Park, with its striking design by sculptor Isamu Noguchi, offers a peaceful escape within the city itself. Every February, Sapporo transforms into a winter wonderland during the Sapporo Snow Festival (Yuki Matsuri). This iconic event attracts millions of visitors who come to admire jaw-dropping and stunning ice sculptures, illuminated at night to create a magical atmosphere.

On a culinary level, Sapporo is a gem. The city is the birthplace of miso ramen, a hearty noodle soup perfect for warming up on a chilly day (though the commercialized variety has been the constant staple in many a college dormitory). Don't miss an opportunity to sample Hokkaido crab or enjoy a bottle of Sapporo Beer, one of Japan's oldest and most famous beer brands.

Oh, Tokyo, a dazzling metropolis where the past and future coexist in perfect harmony. As the capital and largest city of Japan, Tokyo is a city of contrasts, with each neighbourhood offering its own distinct charm. Shibuya dazzles with its famous crossing and non-stop energy, while Harajuku is a fashionista's paradise, brimming with quirky boutiques and pop culture. In Asakusa, step back in time at the historic Senso-ji Temple, and in Akihabara, immerse yourself in the world of anime, manga, and electronics. As I said, as you move through the city, you move through the different faces of Japan.

Tokyo is a year-round destination, but each season offers something special. Spring brings the magical cherry blossoms, while autumn paints the city in vibrant hues of red and gold. Summer is lively with festivals, and winter offers crisp, clear skies and festive illuminations. Tokyo's history is a fascinating journey from a humble fishing village to one of the world's most dynamic metropolises. Originally known as Edo, the city began as a small settlement along the Sumida River. Its transformation into a significant urban center started in the early 17th century.

In 1603, Tokugawa Ieyasu established the Tokugawa Shogunate, making Edo the seat of his government. While the emperor resided in Kyoto, Edo flourished as the political and cultural hub of Japan. Under Tokugawa rule, the city grew rapidly, becoming one of the largest cities in the world by the 18th century. In 1868, the Meiji Restoration marked a pivotal shift in Japanese history. The shogunate was dissolved, and power was restored to the emperor. Edo was renamed Tokyo, meaning "Eastern Capital", signifying its new status. That same year, Emperor Meiji moved from Kyoto to Tokyo, formally establishing it as Japan's capital.