Japan

• Respect for hierarchy, authority and tradition are core elements of Japanese culture.
• Honshu has four seasons - spring (March to May), summer (June to August), autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February).
• Harmony is valued over direct confrontational expression of opinions in Japanese culture.
• The main island of Japan is called Honshu.
• Polite honne expresses subtle interest and affection in Japan.
• Japan is an archipelago, meaning it consists of many islands.
• August 6th, 1945, Hiroshima is bombed with an atomic bomb
• Shintoism is the state religion of Japan
• December 7th, 1941, Pearl Harbour is attacked by the Japanese navy
• The concept of "face" is important in Japanese society, where saving face means avoiding embarrassment or loss of reputation.
• Japanese people tend to be reserved and avoid confrontation or direct criticism.
• In Japan, it's common to use honorific language when addressing someone older or higher up the social ladder.
• The cherry blossom season is celebrated with picnics under the trees.
• Summer festivals involve dancing around a pole called a yagura.
• Kyoto was the capital city until 1869 when it moved to Tokyo.
• The Japanese language uses honorific forms when addressing people with higher status or age.
• Autumn leaves turn red or yellow and fall from the trees.
• Tokyo is located on the eastern coast of Honshu.
• In the past, samurai were warriors who served feudal lords as part of their duty.
• Samurais had strict codes of conduct known as bushido, which included loyalty, discipline, courage, and self-control.
• In Japan, the concept of "face" or tatemae refers to public behavior that conforms with social norms and expectations.
• In Japan, the emperor represents the state and symbolizes the unity of the people.
• Tatemae can be seen as an outward display of politeness and respect towards others, while honne represents one's true feelings and thoughts.
• Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish made from vinegared rice combined with various ingredients such as raw fish, vegetables, or egg.
• Buddhist temples can often be found near Shinto shrines as they coexist peacefully together.
• Bowing is a traditional form of greeting in Japan that shows respect and politeness.
• Kimono is traditional clothing worn by both men and women in Japan.
• March 1st, 1945, Tokyo is firebombed by American planes
• In Japan, there are two main religions - Shintoism (the indigenous religion) and Buddhism (introduced from China).
• In Japan, there are two types of time - official time (keito) and personal time (koji).
• Kyoto served as the capital city of Japan until 1868 when Tokyo became the new capital
• After World War II, Japan adopted a new constitution that emphasizes democracy and human rights
• The Emperor's role is largely ceremonial but he still holds significant power as head of state.
• Winter brings snow and cold temperatures.
• There are different levels of honorifics based on the relationship between the speaker and listener.
• Festivals often have parades with floats decorated with flowers and music played on taiko drums.
• Honorifics are used to show respect and politeness towards others.
• Tokyo has been destroyed by earthquakes and fires but rebuilt itself into one of the world's most modern cities.
• Anime refers to animated TV shows and movies produced in Japan.
• Japan is known for its advanced technology and innovative products like Sony Walkman, Nintendo Wii, and Toyota Prius.