JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK 36° 43’ 58.1” N 138° 27’ 45.7” E
JULIA MCNEILL RICHARDSON
- Journey To Japan -
let me take you on a journey to the east . A journey to Japan: a place that combines the unique combination of being deeply rooted in tradition yet continually evolving to be at the forefront of modern technological advancements, a blend of an- cient customs and contemporary creativity, a multifaceted country with a foot in both worlds. Japan has everything to fulfill all personalities and preferences. There’s a plethora of stimuli to satiate all of your senses from city conglomerates, to gaming districts, to diverse and stunning natural landscapes. From picturesque mountains, including the infamous Mount Fuji, to lush forests, hot springs called onsens, beautiful coastlines, and thousands of islands. There are historical temples and shrines that are maintained and continue to be used for traditional customs, ceremonies, and rituals. There’s a sense of measure, awareness, and synergy throughout Japan, cooperation giving rise to a whole that is greater than the simple sum of its parts, a place where deep philosophical practices meet aesthetics principles, giving rise to practices such as sim- plicity, minimalism, harmony, cleanliness, presentation, and respect. Etiquette is deeply ingrained here. The concept of ganbaru — of doing one’s best — is prevalent and is a significant part of the success of Japan. There’s a high emphasis on social harmony, hos- pitality, respect for elders, and authorities, and running throughout all of these human customs is a deeply rooted respect for nature. The two main religions of Japan, Shinto (the way of the spirits and deities) and Buddhism (enlightenment through spiritual practices such as meditation), both revere the natural world. And these religious traditions are intertwined with their rituals, cele- brations, and festivals that reflect the changing seasons, for Japan is blessed with distinc- tive seasons. The cuisine, which is divine, is prepared and presented meticulously, balancing all aspects of the senses. The minimalist way of living emphasizes the importance of cleanli- ness, as demonstrated by indoor slippers and bathroom only-slippers, for example. Such thought, precision and execution is commonplace.
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MOTHER VOLUME THREE
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