Tokyo Cultural Guide

As the cultural center of Japan, Tokyo reflects the best of the Japanese culture. The city’s unique culture originated from the ethnic Jomon culture before it was combined with influences from the Chinese, Korean, Greek, and Indian. It was subsequently mixed with later influences from Europe and the United States. Tokyo’s culture is reflected in its arts, rituals, festivals, and architecture.

Traditional arts such as ikebana (flower arrangement), origami, crafts, kabuki performances, and banraku (puppet theater). In addition, large number of festivals, celebrations, and observances are all part of the Japanese culture. Some of the most important practices being observed in the city include New Year visits to shrines, religious festivals, and the cherry blossom viewing in April.

To an outsider, the Japanese may seem shy and aloof. But once you understand the Japanese culture, you’ll discover that this isn’t actually the case. The Japanese were brought up to think as a separate group. Things that are non-Japanese are not easily accepted. This makes the Japanese culture one-of-a-kind in many ways.

Visiting Tokyo will help you know traditions that had been ingrained in the city. Bows replaces the handshake, counting the change after a purchase is impolite, and shoes should not be worn in temples and other people’s homes. It is a place where ancient temples co-exist with modern skyscrapers and bullet trains.

To know more about Japan, its people, and its culture, visit the following links:

Insider’s Guide to Tokyo

Planet Tokyo

Japan 101

Tokyo Travel Guide

Tokyo Calendar of Events

Taito Culture

Tokyo Attractions

List of Attractions

Tokyo Attraction Guide

Theme Parks in Tokyo

Yahoo Travel: Things to do in Tokyo