I’ve always been curious about my attraction to Japan in all its elements. From architecture to culture, there exists a “Japan aesthetic.”
1. Architecture
Traditional Japanese architecture is one of the most attractive displays of structural craftsmanship with designs that have stood the test of time. Kirizuma-style Japanese roofing has been used since ancient times and to this day still brings a sense of awe and wonder for its beautiful appearance and creative aesthetic. Particularly in Kyoto, this design is not only seen in famous temple and shrine sites but also in shops, houses, cafes, and more.
2. Nature
When it comes to nature, I can’t help but feel that Japan was truly blessed by the heavens in this department. Cherry blossoms, colorful autumn leaves, and magnificent mountain ranges are all native elements of the land of the rising sun. Sure, there are the French Alps in Europe and the Alaska Range of North America, but somehow the way Mt. Fuji stands alone at 3,776 meters tall and its perfect proportions of snow and rock make it unbelievably iconic and a one-of-a-kind!
3. People
Japan is more than its visual appearances, but also its atmosphere and vibe that is projected by the philosophies, attitudes, and ethics of its people. When it comes to social harmony, mindfulness, and consideration, they have certainly raised the bar a notch. Indeed, the way in which Japanese people communicate with one another and the mannerisms in which they do so is a big contributing factor to what I would coin the “Japan aesthetic.”
4. Food
Food in Japan is so much more than a means of consumption, rather it is treated as an art form in many ways. The presentation, variety, and nutritional value of food have a potent effect on the human mind, delighting all of our senses from the delicious taste to the appreciation of its visual aesthetic. Whether it’s a common bento box lunch from the convenience store or an upper-class ryokan set dinner course, the visual aesthetic of Japanese cuisine is prevalent.
5. Language
Lastly, I want to mention the Japanese language and its impact on the Japan aesthetic, both in its spoken and written forms. They Japanese language is designed in such a way that the majority of words end in vowels as though to create a harmonious “continuation effect” in every day speech. The use of the body’s diaphragm is also emphasized which offsets the strain on the lips and tongue and makes the decibels of verbal communication easy on the ears.
In terms of written Japanese, there’s no doubt it can be a truly aesthetic form of writing with its three systems of hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Again, Japanese is quite easy to identify due to its iconic written letters, albeit also borrows symbolic characters from the Chinese. It’s no surprise that Japanese calligraphy has become a popular art form steeped in cultural tradition as the human mind cannot deny the visual beauty of Japan’s written language.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!