Japan’s artistic traditions draw from its deep cultural roots. Calligraphy is one of its most popular forms; it is taught in schools both as a subject and as an art, and is used every day. At higher levels of study, it requires balance, flow, and inner discipline.

Nara, Japan, is home to some of the country’s oldest and most treasured Buddhist artifacts from the Nara Period.

More senior citizens in Japan are going back to university. Many are in their 50s, 60s, or older and want to learn new skills. Some hope to prepare for a second career after retirement.

Cherry blossoms brighten Japan’s spring landscape with their delicate pink hues, and they also find their way into kitchens across the country, where cooks transform these fleeting petals into flavorful ingredients for both sweet and savory dishes. 

Cherry blossom petals and hanami feel timeless, but this spring tradition has a clear story. The first hanami “pictures” were not phone photos. They were written records, poems, and paintings made over 1,200 years ago at the imperial courts in Japan.

If you are interested in history, you may already know that the Jomon Period stands out as a time when people carefully learned to live in close harmony with nature.