|
|
|
ASIJ Elementary School Home Page - How would you feel about attending a Japanese tea ceremony for the first time? Would you know what to do? If someone gave you a chance to try playing a large stringed instrument--a koto --what would it be like? The kids at The American School in Japan have done all that and more! They've written about their experiences, and you'll learn all sorts of things from their Web page. For example, the tea used in a tea ceremony is bitter, so make sure you get a piece of candy in your mouth first! Be sure to read about Japanese holidays, too, especially the New Year's celebrations.
Japan Information - This is the best general-interest site we could find. You can hear "Kimigayo," Japan's national anthem, plus try some links to Japanese sites on travel, culture, history, and more. You might try the Japanese art of origami or bonsai, the art of growing small trees in miniature potted landscapes. This site even has a map of the subway system! You'll find it under Japan Maps.
Japan Travel Updates - This official site is for those who need travel information and suggested places to visit in Japan. You will learn a lot about various Japanese cities at this site, but you can also find out about theme parks! Try Nikko Edo Mura if you want to experience historic Japan with ninjas and shogun generals. Or maybe you'd prefer the Fuji-Q amusement park. Besides the thrilling rides, a tamer Thomas the Tank Engine attractiond in 1998.
Japan: Images of a People - These examples of Japanese painting will help you better understand and appreciate the culture of Japan. This site includes lessons that have been adapted from materials developed by the education department of the Smithsonian Institution's Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery--the two national museums of Asian art.
Kids Web Japan - This site provides a look into the life and culture of Japanese children. Many Japanese kids eat miso soup, pickled vegetables, and rice for breakfast. A school lunch might consist of fish, meat, sea vegetables, and fruit. But what do they like to eat in a fast-food restaurant? Hamburgers, fried chicken, and other delights! You can find out the answers to many questions about Japanese daily life at this entertaining and informative site.
The Imperial Family of Japan - Meet His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Japan, Her Imperial Majesty the Empress, and their immediate family. This is not an official site, but the information appears to be accurate. There is also a very useful selection of links about other royalty on the Internet.
The Japanese Tutor - This extensive guide to Japanese culture and language will let you hear everyday words and phrases, spoken by a native speaker. You'll also learn the polite way to count on your fingers and how to use chopsticks.
The Virtual Museum of Traditional Japanese Arts - What do you think of when you hear the word "art"? Paintings, sculptures, drawings. This site is sure to expand your understanding of that simple three-letter word. Would you have thought of landscape art, or dance, or sumo wrestling? Or maybe ceramics, bonsai, or archery? Read about these Japanese art forms and many more at this site.
Virtual Japanese Restaurant - Start with the menu and finish with dessert. It might seem simple enough. Look close, though, and discover the many subtleties that accompany a meal. Test your Japanese to see if you know the correct expression to say out loud before eating. Did you know the color of the chopsticks can be significant to the total dining experience? Before you leave, be sure to check out the recipes. Sayonara .
|
