Samurai refers to the warrior class which existed during pre-industrial Japan.  This group is composed of men who serve the nobility in close attendance.  In time, it became synonymous to the upper class echelons of warrior.  There are four main things that differentiate a samurai from the other warriors.  These are skill, having a daimyo or master, membership in the elite class, and living by the warrior code known as Bushido.

Bushido is the main thing that differentiates a samurai.  It is the code of ethics by which a samurai lives and dies.  There are people who see in this code a certain contradiction as it contains principles that do not seem to agree such as “obedience to authority” and ” duty first even in violation of law”.  Even then, a samurai is expected to find his way when the situation calls for it.  Translated to the “Path of the Warrior” , the code emphasized loyalty to master and death rather than dishonor.

Being a samurai goes beyond wearing armors, wielding swords, and enjoying prestige.  In fact, it is more about mental bearing rather than physical skill. Even if the Samurai warrior existed a long time ago, there is a way that Samurai ethics can be practiced in modern times.

A samurai warrior trains hard to master his skills.  Before, it was the mastery of combat skills while present times require mastery in more current skills. This is still true to day since it would be difficult to attain expertise and mastery without proper training.  Training may take years but it is part of the true way of a warrior.  Even in the  absence of war, the Samurai way provides important lessons in hard work and patience.

A samurai warrior keeps his integrity.  Death was considered desirable than dishonor.  Integrity is probably the most difficult to maintain in the highly materialistic environment of the world today.

A samurai warrior never lets his sword rule.  The weapon was considered a means to achieve a noble cause.  Authority is not established by threats nor weapons but rather by the strength of spirit that others will see and recognize.

A samurai warrior commits to his purpose.  In the olden times, the purpose was to serve a master.  Today, the purpose can be any goal that requires full commitment to be achieved.  This commitment is required in the face of extreme challenges and obstacles.  The will to serve however, remains.

Teresa is a researcher-writer who covers a wide range of topics in search of useful information.
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It is no surprise then, that estimates point at more than 200,000 Australians traveling to Japan each year. Even government officials hold Japan in high regard, with (then) Prime Minister Howard saying in 2006 that “Australia has no greater friend in Asia than Japan”.

That being said, Japan is one of the safest places for tourist, no matter what nationality. However, nature does not always back up the intentions of humans, and we know that Japan is particularly prone to earthquakes, which can lead to some safety issues. If you are planning on paying this wonderful Asian country a visit in the near future, do take a look at some essential safety tips.

Know your earthquake safety basics

You may not be used to dealing with earthquakes on a regular basis, but you never know if one might occur while you’re on vacation. This is not to scare you, but being prepared is better than getting caught with your pants down. These tips can save your life in case of an earthquake:

• Take cover under a sturdy table or desk.
• Stay away from the windows. Instead, seek safety alongside a doorframe or inner walls.
• Expect aftershocks. Each time one happens, take cover, drop, and hold on.
• Always know the exits/emergency routes in your hotel.

To make sure that you are covered in case an earthquake occurs and something happens to you, it is best that you take out a travel insurance policy before your trip. There are many options for this, with varying coverage. It is highly recommended that you do your research and look for more information before choosing a policy. As they say, better safe than sorry!

Stay away from Deliberate Evacuation Areas

There hasn’t been a major earthquake in recent times, but the earthquake and tsunami of 2011 wreaked havoc in the country, with some issues involving nuclear power plants. The government has been quick to respond and take care of its people, and it has designated Deliberate Evacuation Areas that should be avoided due to the radiation levels. You should be totally safe as long as you stay away from these places. See here for more details.

Stay sharp in shopping areas and bars

Petty crime is practically non-existent in Japan, but it is always best to stay sharp. There have been some reports of pickpocketing and spiking of drinks, so you should just keep an eye out as you normally would at home.

BONUS: Last, but not the least, do make it a point to know the contact details of the Australian Embassy in Tokyo – just in case you need them.

About the author

Gemma is a serial traveler. Japan is one of her favorite destinations for so many reasons, and she encourages fellow travellers to give it a go.

Image via Ivan Walsh

Despite this, we cannot deny that the appeal of travel is universal. And should we wish to learn about travelling and what to keep in mind in which places, we only need to look to our TVs as there are a lot of highly informative travel shows out there that can help fuel your wanderlust – even more if you go through www.ExpertSatellite.com for your TV needs. Here are some of our favorites:

Globe Trekker

Quite possibly one of the most accomplished travel shows ever, Globe Trekker (or Lonely Planet as it is called in some countries) stars the lovably goofy Ian Wright as they showcase the world’s best travel destinations, imparting essential knowledge, and a lot of insider information.

Discovery Atlas

Among the many different travel shows, Discovery Atlas is certainly one of the most ambitious. With its magnificent scale and gorgeous treatment, Atlas provides compelling insight into local life. Atlas also has a different celebrity narrator for every episode. Swanky.

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

Professional chef/writer Anthony Bourdain’s travel documentary about the various delicacies all over the world is every foodie’s dream come true. For those who dream of raveling and love to eat, this show is a definite must-watch.

An Idiot Abroad

If you’re looking for a travel show that isn’t just informational but entertaining as well, look no further than An Idiot Abroad. Starring sheltered little Karl Pilkington who is reluctantly thrust into a life of travel and adventure by his peers funnyman Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant An Idiot Abroad  is chockfull of interesting data about different countries and their wonderful travel destinations.

About the guest author:

Amy is a travel aficionado who does most of her traveling…through her TV.

For a highly developed country, it is quite surprising why Japan does not have its own army.  The reason points to history and events that Japan has tried to make amends for.  However, the country does have its Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Under its 1947 Constitution, particularly under Article 9,  Japan has ” forever renounced war as an instrument for settling international disputes and that it will never again maintain land, sea, or air forces or other war potential”. This decision is rooted on the deep impact of the Second World War on the Japanese people in particular and the world in general.  Up to this day, there are still countries awaiting reparation for the war atrocities that were supposed to have been committed by the Japanese military.

The Mutual Security Assistance Pact provides that  US forces stationed in Japan will take care of any external aggression against Japan while the Japanese forces will address internal threat and natural disasters.  Whatever semblance of military forces there are in Japan today are considered mere extensions of the country’s Police Force.

Being the direct recipient of the effects of nuclear weapons, Japan expressly abhors the use of it in any destructive form.  It has to be noted though that Japan has several nuclear plants existing.  Its is believed that the country is capable of developing its own nuclear weapon when the need arises.

Japanese troops have seen action in others countries mainly as peacekeeping agents.  Only time will tell if there will be changes with regards to the role of the Self-Defense Forces.

About the Author:

Teresa is a researcher-writer who covers a wide range of topics in search of useful information.

Image: hanamiweb.com

Japan is known for being a land of contrasts.
Attracted by this fact, more than 2 million tourists arrive in this country every year, using one of the many low cost airlines that offer flights to Japan. If you are planning a trip to this
fascinating country soon, it might be useful to be familiar with some of the most unusual customs you may be faced
with.

Removing your shoes as you enter a house

Most people are familiar with the Japanese custom that involves taking one’s shoes off as they enter a house.
However, there is more to this tradition than just that.

It is believed that this custom is a way of avoiding bringing dirt, mud, and dust from the streets into a home, so taking
your shoes off shows respect for your host or the owner of the house. Japanese homes have a dedicated space by the
entrance where shoes must be left and where you must change into slippers. Now, here’s what not every Westerner
knows about this tradition: if a house’s floor is raised approximately 6 inches, this means shoes must be removed and
guests should change into slippers. However, if once inside the house you notice that the floors are covered with a
tatami mat or raised 1 or 2 inches, you should also take off your slippers. Moreover, as explained in this site , you must change into a different set of slippers when
using the house’s bathroom.

Bowing when meeting someone

While in Western countries a handshake is considered a common way of greeting someone, the Japanese custom requires that you bow before
someone when you meet them. This may seem a bit awkward to Westerners, especially as there are different types of
bows that have to be performed in different situations. There are different positions for the hands depending on
whether you are male or female, but eye contact should never be maintained while bowing. Generally speaking, the
wider the angle of the bow, the more respectful or formal it is. There are greeting bows, apology bows, goodbye bows,
respect bows, and even telephone bows.

Don’t worry if you can’t get it right from the beginning, as even Japanese employees are sometimes sent to
“bowing training”!

Not using soap when taking a bath

As a Westerner, you would think that there is nothing more natural than using soap to give yourself a good scrub
while taking a bath. This is not the case in Japan, and one of the most unusual Japanese customs involves what some
have called the bathroom ritual.

It is a custom in Japan that all members of a household use the same water to bathe. The Japanese consider that
using any soap in the bath tub will actually make the water dirty and this would be a signal of disrespect towards the
next person to use the bath. It is for this reason that Japanese bathrooms consist of three separate rooms: one where
the toilet is, another where you undress, and the actual bathroom, which has a shower (where soap can be used) and
a bath tub, which is exclusively used for soaking. Also, to some Westerners it may be shocking to find out that nudity
is accepted and even expected in Japanese public baths.

More information on Japanese
bathroom etiquette can be found here

When napkins are not napkins

Do not be tempted to use the small cloth you will find on your table at Japanese restaurants or bars as if it was a
napkin. This cloth (called oshibori) is only meant to be used to clean your hands prior to eating. Once your hands are
clean, the oshibori should be carefully folded and not used again. Westerners often find it odd that there are no actual
napkins at Japanese restaurants, so always carry your own tissues.

Like in any other country in the world, Japan observes certain standards that govern social behavior.  These are standard Japanese etiquette which are expected to be observed by locals and visitors alike.  Visitors could benefit from doing a little research before visiting since Japan has specific practices that are unique to their culture.

The Japanese consider good manners of primary importance.  This is the reason why visitors to Japan should take time to learn the basic rules of etiquette observed in the country to avoid mistakes that may prove costly to social relationships.  Mistakes when done can be very embarrassing to both the locals and the visitors.

It is considered impolite to refuse an invitation to a home in Japan.  In fact, it is considered a rare honor which visitors can try to reciprocate  by bringing a gift of food or drink while apologizing for it regardless of its monetary value.  Shoes worn outside are always left on a designated area within the entrance of the home.  As such guests should wear socks to be worn with the slippers for use inside the home.  Bathroom slippers are only used in that particular area and nowhere else.

Locals and visitors alike are  expected to present themselves in a neat manner.  Hair is dried before going out in public places.  Wearing excessive jewelry is not favored in Japan.  It is considered polite to respect other people’s private spaces by avoiding physical and eye contact which is more than necessary in a given situation.

Greeting makes use of bows and handshakes not just as a sign of respect but also to put emphasis on  thanking or apologizing.   People are addressed by their last names followed by “san”.  Shouting in public as well as using the cellphone in trains and buses are considered bad manners.

Image: japanesebusinessresource

About the Author:
Teresa likes learning about different cultures.

Image: adaaran

Japan takes pride in its observation of many ceremonial preparations.  One of this is the Japanese Tea ceremony which serves powdered green tea, confections, and a light meal.  Tea ceremonies have been part of Japanese tradition since the 8^th or 9^th century.

China holds the distinction of having observed tea ceremonies much, much earlier.  A monk who returned from a trip to China introduced the tea preparation style referred to as “tencha”. The said monk was also able to bring with him tea seeds which helped produced excellent quality of tea in Japan.

Buddhist monasteries were known to be the first place where green tea was used as part of religious rituals.  It did not take long for the same tea to become associated to a desired status symbol of the warrior class.  Eventually, tea became part of Japanese culture that emphasized spirituality, refinement, and restraint.

The traditional venue for Japanese tea ceremonies is a tatami-floored room although any other place where the host can make the tea in front of the guests will do.  The traditional room ideally has a floor area of 4.5 with a low ceiling.  There is usually an attached preparation area.  Decorations are kept simple and minimal, creating a rustic feel for the tea drinkers to enjoy.

Tea ceremonies in Japan consider seasonality where variations are made in the ritual performed and the equipment used depending on the prevailing season.  There are basic components for a tea ceremony including the chokin which is used to wipe tea bowls, the tea bowl itself, tea caddy, tea scoop, and the tea whisk.  There are specific rituals that will have to be observed by the host and the guests.  The art of calligraphy plays a role in the tea ceremony by providing the symbolism for the occasion.

Image: royaltyinthenews

Japan has the oldest continuous hereditary monarchy among the practicing monarchies in the world.  The Emperor of Japan symbolizes the state and the people’s unity.  The members of the family of the Emperor is referred to as the Imperial Family.  They are only expected to perform ceremonial and social events but do not participate in any way in running the government.

The current Japanese Emperor is Akihito who acceded to the throne in 1989.  His predecessor was Showa and his heir apparent is Crown Prince Naruhito.  The Emperor of Japan is never called by his given name and is always referred to as “His Imperial Majesty the Emperor”.

Japan has a standing male-only succession law.  It almost went into a crisis because of the considerable length of time that a male descendant was born.  There were already efforts being made to recommend amending the law but was held in abeyance with the recent birth of a son to one of Emperor Akihito’s children.  History however would reveal that there were at least 8 Empresses that reigned, all of whom were daughters of the male line of the Imperial Clan.  No empress on record ascended to the throne by being a wife or a widow of an Emperor.

Monarchies require monarchs to rule for life and pass their responsibilities and title to their children or family in the event of their death.  The advantage seen in this set-up is the continuity in leadership.  Japan is a constitutional monarchy which grants no power to the Emperor.  This lends credence to the view that a Japanese Emperor’s position is merely symbolic.

General features

• Japanese structures chiefly used natural materials, which were readily on hand: bamboo, miscanthus reed thatch, timber, plaster, tree bark, straw, clay tiles. Stones were used for foundations and podia in pagodas and temples.

• Houses have an enormous roof with gentle slopes, supported by posts, beams and braces that are precisely linked without moulding or nails, and fastened in place like a puzzle. Interestingly, structures don’t use arches or have barrel roofs. This architectural style provided both structural integrity and flexibility to weather Japan’s many natural disasters.The roof is the most conspicuous part of the traditional house, usually comprising at least half of the entire building and is usually made of shingles or straw. They’re so large that the edges extend to cover the house’s veranda. The roof is sloped to let rainwater easily fall off it.
• Its walls are very thin, and function mainly as ornamental dividers. They can be easily moved and removed–even the outer walls. As a result, houses are basically roofed structures that with almost non-existent walls. They’re great when the weather is hot, but are difficult during winter.Since the walls aren’t permanently set, a house’s inner spaces can easily be changed, depending on the occupant’s needs. For instance, if the household has guests, walls can be rooms can be joined to make room.
• Elevation within the home was used to indicate one’s social status, particularly in upper-class houses. Elevated floors also served another purpose: to avoid drafts and moisture from the ground level. But unlike chairs, which limited people to sit in just one location, raised floors allowed people to sit anywhere they wish.
• Elevated floors also improved the traditional house’s structural integrity. Here’s how it works: Each elevated floor was supported by several supporting columns, and then each of these columns are then placed on its own foundation stone. This setup allows the house to endure Japan’s earthquakes.

Examples of famous buildings

Many famous buildings employ the architecture style that is commonly used in traditional Japanese houses. These include the following:

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Aside from the Imperial Residence, the Palace Grounds have several buildings. The Shishinden (i.e. Hall for State Ceremonies) is surrounded by a long and narrow hallway called a hishashi. The Emperor’s Throne is placed on an octagonal platform five metres above the floor. Located on the west of the Shishinden is the Seiryoden (i.e. cool refreshing hall), which is made of cypress wood and comes with a gabled roof.

Ise Grand Shrine

As like other traditional structures, the Ise Grand Shrine, particularly its Naiku shrine, uses pillars that are set directly on the ground. Its roof is made of thatched reed and come with katsuogi (i.e. decorative logs), which is placed along the roof’s ridge. The structure comes with a raised floor, and is surrounded by a veranda.

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We all know for what purpose fans are used but there is a kind of fan in Japan that is primarily a signaling device.  It is actually a fan designed for warfare.  It can also be used as a weapon and it is called thew war fan.

There are three basic types of war fans consisting of the gunsen, tessen, and the gunbai.  The gunsen fan is a folding fan usually seen hanging from a warrior’s breastplate.  The tessen is often used as a throwing weapon and an effective means of fending darts and arrows.  The gunbai is quite flexible even in its stationary form of being a  large and solid fan.

It could be easy to imagine how wars can provide a semblance of art with the use of war fans.  Instead of swift confrontation, the use of the Japanese war fan requires observing rituals, practices, and protocols.  Commands can be given to soldiers through the use of war fans which in turn can be passed on to other participants.

The use of the Japanese war fan lends a degree of nobility to an otherwise dreadful activity.  The use of the tessen is even considered lethal since it is considered quite a weapon in the hands of a real fighter.  Many families preserve their war fans   to be of use to others.  To many however, they preserve theirs as  historic specimens which can be brought out time and again for study and comparison.  Japanese war fans are considered  defense weapons by the samurai which are easily concealed.