write an essay on japanese art

Presentations made painless

• Get Premium

106 Japanese Art Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Japanese art is a rich and diverse tradition that spans thousands of years, encompassing a wide range of styles, techniques, and subjects. From traditional forms like calligraphy and tea ceremony to contemporary movements like manga and anime, Japanese art has had a profound influence on the global art world.

If you're looking for inspiration for your next art essay, here are 106 Japanese art essay topic ideas and examples to get you started:

The history and development of ukiyo-e woodblock prints in Japan

The influence of Zen Buddhism on Japanese art

The symbolism of cherry blossoms in Japanese art

The role of the geisha in Japanese art and culture

The evolution of kimono design in Japanese art

The impact of Western art on Japanese artists in the Meiji period

The significance of gold leaf in Japanese decorative arts

The use of nature motifs in Japanese ceramics

The cultural significance of the tea ceremony in Japanese art

The portrayal of women in Japanese art throughout history

The influence of samurai culture on Japanese sword-making

The tradition of bonsai cultivation in Japanese art

The development of sumi-e ink painting in Japan

The symbolism of dragons in Japanese art

The role of the shinto religion in Japanese art

The depiction of animals in Japanese netsuke carvings

The use of wabi-sabi aesthetics in Japanese pottery

The influence of kabuki theater on Japanese visual arts

The representation of the four seasons in Japanese art

The significance of Mt. Fuji in Japanese landscape painting

The art of ikebana flower arranging in Japanese culture

The use of kintsugi repair techniques in Japanese ceramics

The portrayal of yokai monsters in Japanese folklore art

The influence of anime and manga on contemporary Japanese art

The role of kawaii culture in Japanese visual arts

The depiction of war and peace in Japanese art

The symbolism of cranes in Japanese art

The representation of the afterlife in Japanese art

The impact of natural disasters on Japanese art

The use of calligraphy in Japanese poetry and painting

The cultural significance of the torii gate in Japanese art

The depiction of gods and goddesses in Japanese mythology

The portrayal of court life in Heian period art

The influence of Chinese art on Japanese painting

The role of the tea house in Japanese art and architecture

The symbolism of the lotus flower in Japanese art

The use of gold and silver foil in Japanese screen painting

The depiction of food and drink in Japanese art

The representation of demons and spirits in Japanese art

The influence of modern technology on Japanese art

The portrayal of the atomic bombings in Japanese art

The use of paper folding techniques in Japanese origami

The symbolism of the koi fish in Japanese art

The role of the kimono in contemporary Japanese fashion

The depiction of urban life in Japanese art

The tradition of hanami cherry blossom viewing in Japanese art

The influence of pop culture on Japanese art

The representation of the floating world in Japanese prints

The symbolism of the moon in Japanese art

The impact of globalization on Japanese artistic practices

The portrayal of the supernatural in Japanese art

The use of woodblock printing techniques in Japanese manga

The symbolism of masks in Japanese theater

The role of the samurai in Japanese visual arts

The depiction of nature in Japanese haiku poetry

The tradition of hot springs bathing in Japanese art

The influence of folk art on contemporary Japanese artists

The representation of the seasons in Japanese poetry and painting

The symbolism of the phoenix in Japanese art

The impact of World War II on Japanese art and culture

The portrayal of the Ainu indigenous people in Japanese art

The use of traditional crafts in modern Japanese design

The symbolism of the lotus flower in Japanese Buddhism

The role of the geisha in contemporary Japanese society

The depiction of the tsunami in Japanese art

The influence of Western art movements on Japanese artists

The representation of the natural world in Japanese woodblock prints

The symbolism of the dragon in Japanese mythology

The impact of the internet on Japanese art and design

The portrayal of the supernatural in Japanese manga and anime

The use of natural materials in Japanese craft traditions

The symbolism of the crane in Japanese folklore

The role of the tea ceremony in modern Japanese art

The depiction of the atomic bombings in Japanese film

The influence of street art on contemporary Japanese artists

The representation of the changing seasons in Japanese poetry and painting

The symbolism of the cherry blossom in Japanese art

The impact of social media on Japanese art

The portrayal of the afterlife in Japanese mythology

The use of traditional techniques in contemporary Japanese ceramics

The symbolism of the tiger in Japanese art

The role of the onsen hot spring in Japanese visual arts

The depiction of the earthquake in Japanese art

The influence of graffiti art on Japanese street culture

The representation of the natural world in Japanese embroidery

The symbolism of the phoenix in Japanese folklore

The impact of climate change on Japanese art

The portrayal of the supernatural in Japanese video games

The use of recycled materials in Japanese contemporary art

The symbolism of the peony in Japanese art

The role of the kimono in Japanese pop culture

The depiction of the tsunami in Japanese literature

The influence of digital media on contemporary Japanese artists

The representation of the changing seasons in Japanese ceramics

The symbolism of the dragonfly in Japanese art

The impact of consumer culture on Japanese art

The portrayal of the afterlife in Japanese film

The use of traditional techniques in modern Japanese textiles

The symbolism of the turtle in Japanese art

The role of the ryokan inn in Japanese visual arts

The depiction of the earthquake in Japanese poetry

Japanese art is a vast and diverse field that offers endless possibilities for exploration and analysis. Whether you're interested in traditional forms like calligraphy and tea ceremony or contemporary movements like manga and anime, there is sure to be a topic that piques your interest. So pick a topic from this list, do some research, and start writing your next Japanese art essay today!

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2023 Pitchgrade

147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Looking for interesting topics on Japan? Find them here! This list contains plenty of Japanese culture topics relating to the country’s traditions, art, and social phenomena. Check them out!

🔝 Top 10 Japanese Culture Topics to Write About

🔎 culture-related japan research topics, ✅ japanese topics for presentations, 🏆 best japanese culture topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good japanese culture essay topics, 💡 interesting japanese culture topics to write about, 📌 simple & easy japanese culture essay titles, ❓ research questions about japanese culture.

• The Cultural Impact of Anime
• The Mystique and Roles of Geisha
• Traditional Japanese Arts and Crafts
• Tea Ceremony in Japanese Culture
• The Beauty of Japanese Gardens
• The Art of Japanese Floral Arrangement
• Festivals and Matsuri in Japanese Culture
• The Code of Bushido and Its Influence on Society
• Pop Culture Phenomena of J-Pop and Kawaii
• Sushi, Ramen, and Other Culinary Delights of Japan
• Environmental Sustainability in Japan
• Shintoism and Its Influence on Japanese Society
• Modernization and Transformation of Japan
• Challenges Related to Japan’s Aging Population
• Japanese Video Games and Their Global Appeal
• The Aftermath of the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster
• The Role of Women in Modern Japanese Society
• Ways of Preserving and Revitalizing Traditional Japanese Arts
• The “Japanese Miracle” of Economic Growth and Technological Advancements
• Achievements, Critiques, and Reforms in the Japanese Education System
• Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
• Symbolism of the Iconic Mount Fuji
• The Legacy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• Japan’s Ancient Temples and Urban Landscapes
• How Zen Buddhism Impacts Japanese Aesthetics
• The Beauty and Significance of Origami and Calligraphy
• Japanese Bullet Train and Other Transportation Advancements
• Traditional Japanese Performing Arts: Noh, Kabuki, and Gagaku
• Modern Japanese Literature: Haruki Murakami and Yukio Mishima
• Japanese Business Etiquette, Work Ethics, and Corporate Practices
• Ramen Culture as a Vital Part of the Traditions in Japan Studying the history of the transformation of ramen culture and the role it plays in modern Japanese popular culture helps to explore the uniqueness of the phenomenon and understand the origins of its immense popularity.
• Japanese Animations’ Effects on the Japanese Economy and Their Cultural Influence on Foreign Countries These artists incorporate the characteristic anime stylizations, gags and methodology in their piece of work to produce animations that are a bit similar to Japanese anime. The growing interest among foreign artists in anime is […]
• Culture Comparison Between China and Japan In Japan, it can be proved by the fact that the name Japan is written in the Chinese Kanji and not the Japanese Katakana or Hiragana.
• Disneyland in American, Japanese, European Cultures Due to the popularity of the American culture, Disneyland’s representation of American culture that spreading a positive attitude about life has a significant impact on Disneyland in Asian countries, especially in Japan.
• Japanese Anime and Doujin Culture In the 1980’s the anime spread to other parts of the world including the western world where it has continued to grow in popularity.
• The Influence of Heavy Metal on Japanese Culture In Japan, the association involving the realm of heavy metal music and personal distinctions has been surveyed in a number of studies.
• Process of Modernization and How It Affected the Cultures of China and Japan Among such countries, China and Japan were voted as the most affected nations by modernization process because of the emergent of simple and advanced technologies. This changed gradually with the spread of industrial revolution in […]
• Hip-Hop and the Japanese Culture The prevalence of soul dancing in Japan in the earlier years also formed the basis for the wide acceptance of the hip-hop culture into the Japanese culture because soul dancing was common in the streets […]
• Japan After Globalization: Culture and Ethnocentrism The isolated territorial position of the country, geographical and climatic features, frequent earthquakes, and typhoons had a significant influence on the culture and mentality of the Japanese people.
• Language and Culture: The Honorifics (Speech or System) of Japanese and Korean In Japan, honorific use is determined by the category of the addressee, that is, he/ she might be superior to the addresser, and this corresponds directly to the verb in use.
• Conflict Management in Japanese Culture Japan and its culture truly represent the cultural compromise that determines the development of the entire Japanese spiritual tradition.
• Comparing the USA, China, Japan and the United Kingdom Cultures This diversity is evident in their music, fashion, cuisine, visual arts, cinema and literature and due to the propagation of the same through the media; the American culture has today become the pedestal through which […]
• Japanese Culture and Identity in the Modern Era I strongly believe that Japanese popular culture might lose its identity due to influence from other cultures, which may lead to a slight modification of the culture.
• Globalization and Japanese Cultures This map is in that book and this course because of demonstrating the movement of goods and people across the world from Afrique to Patagonia and Nouvelle-Guinee.
• Researching of the Culture of Japan As for me, I thought that the Arabic language is complicated but after I heard Japanese, I understood it was really hard to learn and speak it.
• Relationships in Japanese History and Culture The preparation of the obento is not easy, it demands some special skills, and, of course, deep knowledge of the traditions.
• Western Pop Culture and Street Fashion of Japanese Youth The research of the topic needs to be preceded by the explanation of the key subjects and notions used in the current paper.
• Chinese Han Dynasty: Comparing to the Japanese Culture Changing the focus to that one of the daily lives of ordinary citizens, the art of the Chinese culture during the Han Dynasty era allowed introducing a significant amount of diversity into the artistic realm.
• The Japanese Culture and Ecological Interests Many Japanese practices have been adopted in the western world due to the popularity of the culture. Among the many cultural practices of Japan, karate is the most practiced one outside the state.
• Violence and War in Japanese Popular Culture 50 years after the end of the war, the effects of the war have continued to influence the Japanese culture and have also affected its relations with other countries.
• Culture and Customs of Japan After WWII It must be admitted, however, in the interests of truth, that the traditional mode of living and ways of thinking, both good and bad, are deeply rooted in the life of the Japanese people of […]
• Comparing Japanese and Chinese Cultures The main difference between the Chinese and Japanese concept of loyalty is that the Chinese people emphasize their loyalty to their family as a top priority.
• Japanese Popular Culture: Anime, Video Games, and the Film Industry This report will investigate the growth and influence of Japanese pop culture through anime, video games, and the film industry. The game was created by a Japanese studio and is built on the concept of […]
• The Growth of Japanese Culture in the Tokugawa Period The principal factor that benefited the growth and progress of the nation after the ascension of Tokugawa Ieyasu to power is the conclusion of the Sengoku period.
• Japan’s History and Culture on a Global Scale 1868 marked a period of the modernization of Japan, with the Meiji restoration leading to the centralization of everything about the emperor.
• Japanese and Southeast Asia Cultures The activities of the warrior were based on the principle of bushido. Human civilization is the main characteristic of the culture in the continent of Asia.
• Japanese Colonialism Impact on the Korean Culture For instance, Faker and Ryang consider the effects that the Japanese culture has had on the Korean one, while Schmidt and Lim deal with the ways in which Korea accepted colonialism and how the country […]
• Age in the American and the Japanese Cultures In the Japanese environment, elderly people are respected and appreciated, whereas in the environment of American society, old people are viewed as dead weight.
• American vs. Japanese Cultures as Adaptive Systems Since the analysis of these cultures will be done from the perspective of the cultural theory, the paper will also examine how each culture influences the development of people, identity, and personality within it.
• Japanese National and Organizational Cultures So it is mandatory for the organization to work out modalities of avoiding the feeling of one culture domineering the organization while making the other cultures seem inferior by promoting intercultural bonding and communicating the […]
• Zen Buddhism Religion in Japanese Culture The uniqueness of Zen is in rejecting the importance of doctrines and emphasizing the role of the spiritual growth of the person through the practice of meditation.
• Daoism Philosophy in the Cultures of the Koreans, Japanese and Chinese Besides, the treatise explores the orientations of the Daoist tradition and the concepts of sages, deities, hell and heaven, and Confucian discourse.
• General Aspects of Japanese Corporate Culture Analysing the corporate culture in Japan, the essay will classify the companies into two: the large and small companies The Japanese culture of management stands out clearly in large corporations.
• Japanese Culture Analysis: Values and Traditions For a manager working with a person from the Japanese culture, understanding how the cultural dimensions apply to the culture will help the manager to work well with the other individuals.
• Diversity Management and Japanese Culture This is because it requires a comprehensive understanding of the cultural values of both the native country and also that of the foreign country in which you are supposed to carry out your business activities.
• Influence of Japanese Culture in Hawaii From the census, it is clear that the culture and the cuisine Hawaii, which are known today, were created by the history of the migration of Japanese to Hawaii when they settled there to work […]
• An Aspect of Politics and Culture of Meiji in Japan In mid 1880’s there was a financial crisis in Japan due to the huge expenses on industrialization. The Sino-Japanese war between 1894and 1895 was due to divergence of interests in Korea involving China and Japan.
• Whaling in Japan: Justifiable by Culture? The gap in reasoning when it comes to utilizing the concept of “scientific research” as a means of justifying the hunting of various whale species by Japanese whalers is the obvious fact that you do […]
• Analysis of “Yuri” Manga as a Peculiarity of Japanese Popular Culture Conclusions of the analysis indicate that yuri manga is not limited to lesbian culture, moreover, it is a significant element of Japanese popular culture.
• Japanese Fascist Ideology and Culture In a fascist authority, the issue of taking control over the people is of great significance and fascist leaders know that for them to control the naivety of the people well then they have to […]
• Traditional Culture No Longer Is Prevalent in Japanese Society However with the phasing of the government policies in to the adoption of the 1870s epoch, it was aimed to enhance the exports of lacquerware to Western countries.
• Cross-Cultural Management: Japanese Culture and Its Workplace Practices This is one of the strategies that can be adopted. This is one of the pitfalls that should be avoided.
• Cultural Evaluation of Japan: Beliefs and Behavior Generally, the culture of Japan is characterized by collectiveness where individualism is not usually a key concept in various practices in different sectors of the economy such as the education system, health care, and politics.
• Influence of the Consumption Phenomenon on Japan’s Social Culture The present society in Japan is founded on the concepts of bettering the welfare of people. Another vital aspect that is worth noting is that the Japanese society is exceptional in because of the presence […]
• Political Economy and Culture in Japan A strong work ethic and management culture in the commerce and manufacturing industry has ensured the prosperity of the Japanese economy. A good example of the interaction of political economics and culture is the case […]
• Issues of Japanese Cultural Identity The other way the anime productions deal with the issues of the Japanese and their cultural identity is by presenting the aspects and ideas that define the people of Japan.
• The Japanese Culture of Ukiyo-E and Ikebana Two areas of the Japanese culture that Mori talks about is Ukiyo-e and Ikebana which are Japanese words that are common to the pre-Meiji artistic works of the Japanese people.
• Japanese Culture vs. Chinese Culture: The Loss of Patriotism
• Anime and Its Effects on Japanese Culture
• Impact of Buddhism on the Japanese Culture
• Chinese and Japanese Culture Comparison and Analysis
• Cultural Globalisation Through Japanese Culture
• Did the Samurai Have a Significant Impact on Japanese Culture?
• Differences Between Korean and Japanese Culture
• Eating Disorders and Self-Harm in Japanese Culture
• Gender Roles in the Japanese Culture
• Hip-Hop Impact on the Japanese Culture
• How Does Sushi Reflect Japanese Culture?
• Overview of Japanese Culture and Communication Features
• Japanese Culture Views on Homosexuality
• How Japanese Culture Has Become So Popular
• Japanese Culture and Its Relation to Buddhism
• How Japanese Culture Affects the Economy
• The Parallels Between Japanese Culture and Military Conflict History
• The Relationships Between Japanese Culture and Politics
• How Reliance Will Get Fit Into the Japanese Culture
• Linking Japanese and South African Culture
• Japanese Culture and the Misconceptions Associated With It
• American Culture and Japanese Culture: Comparative Analysis
• Japanese Culture and Western Influence on It
• The Role of Sexuality in the Japanese Culture
• Japanese Culture: Art, History, and Society
• Japanese Culture and Role of Women in It
• Communication Guide Between America Business Culture and Japanese Culture
• Japanese Culture Factors Influenced the Disclosure of Financial Information
• The Link Between Religions and Japanese Culture
• Japanese Culture: From Ancient to Modern Times
• Social and Geographical Aspects of the Japanese Culture
• Japanese Culture Places High Value on Privacy
• The Gender Problems in the Japanese Culture
• Japanese Culture: Producing Japan in the World
• Key Similarities and Differences Between the Japanese and the American Cultures
• Japanese Culture That Reflects Through Their Writing and Art Forms
• Motivation and Organizational Japanese Culture
• The Odd and Fascinating Japanese Culture
• Tracing Back the Japanese Culture to 10,000 BC
• Understanding the Japanese Culture Through the Warrior Codes of Bushido
• What Is the Influence of Anime on Japanese Culture?
• Are Chinese and Japanese Cultures Similar?
• How Is Cultural Globalization Through Japanese Culture?
• Did the Samurai Have a Significant Impact on Japanese Culture and Historical?
• What Are the Differences Between Korean and Japanese Cultures?
• Are Eating Disorders and Self-Harm Inherent in Japanese Culture?
• What Is the Cultural Assessment of Japanese Culture?
• What Are the Gender Roles in Japanese Culture?
• How Has Japanese Culture Become So Popular?
• How Dose Japanese Culture Affects the Economy Cultural?
• What Is the Attitude Towards Homosexuality in Japanese Culture?
• What Are the Features of Communication in Japanese Culture?
• How Reliance Will Get Fit Into the Japanese Culture?
• How Does Japanese Culture Affect Japanese Business?
• What Are Some Misconceptions About Japanese Culture?
• What Is the Place of Women in Japanese Culture?
• What Do You Need to Know About Japanese Culture Before Going to Japan?
• How Did Japanese Culture Change From Ancient Times to Modern Times?
• How Is Japan’s Culture Reflected in Their Writing and Art Forms?
• What Are the Differences Between American and Japanese Cultures?
• How Is Sexuality Interpreted in Japanese Culture?
• How Does Japanese Culture Spread Abroad?
• What Is the Place of Religion in Japanese Culture?
• What Are the Socio-Geographical Aspects of Japanese Culture?
• What Is the Place of Food in Japanese Culture?
• How Can Japanese Culture Be Understood Through the Warrior Codes of Bushido?
• What Is the Uniqueness of Japanese Culture?
• How Does the West Respond to Japanese Culture?
• What Is the Role of Buddhism in Japanese Culture?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, December 21). 147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/japanese-culture-essay-topics/

"147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 21 Dec. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/japanese-culture-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 21 December.

IvyPanda . 2023. "147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." December 21, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/japanese-culture-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." December 21, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/japanese-culture-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "147 Japanese Culture Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." December 21, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/japanese-culture-essay-topics/.

• Culture Topics
• Anime Questions
• Buddhism Topics
• Fashion Essay Titles
• History Topics
• Manufacturing Essay Topics
• Nissan Ideas
• Mitsubishi Essay Titles
• Ceramics Titles
• Hiroshima Topics
• Cultural Identity Research Topics
• Meditation Questions
• Yoga Questions
• Tea Research Topics
• Bicycle Research Topics

Japanese Art: History, Techniques & Comprehensive Guide

History of japanese art, jomon period art, yayoi period art, kofun and asuka period art, nara period art, heian period art, kamakura and muromachi period art, momoyama period art, edo period art, meiji restoration and modern japanese art.

Imagine stepping into a world where the colors of nature blend seamlessly with the strokes of a brush; a world that captures the essence of beauty, simplicity, and meticulous craftsmanship. That's the world of Japanese art for you. Rich in history and diverse in techniques, Japanese art holds a unique place in the global art landscape. This guide will take you on a journey through the different periods of Japanese art, each with its distinct flavor and style. So let's dive right in and explore this fascinating subject together!

The history of Japanese art is as vibrant as the artworks themselves. It's a powerful blend of local traditions, ideas borrowed from abroad, and a unique aesthetic sense that has evolved over centuries. Let's take a closer look at how Japanese art has unfolded over time.

Pioneering Periods: Jomon, Yayoi, Kofun, and Asuka

Japanese art didn't just come into being—it grew, evolved, and blossomed over time. The earliest forms of art date back to the Jomon period, a time when Japan was still in its prehistoric stage. Pottery, one of the earliest forms of Japanese art, was a significant artistic expression during this period. These early pots were often decorated with cord-markings—hence the name Jomon, which means 'cord-marked' in Japanese.

Following the Jomon period, the Yayoi period saw the introduction of new artistic techniques, most notably metallurgy. Bronze and iron were used to create mirrors, bells, and weapons, often adorned with intricate designs. Meanwhile, the Kofun and Asuka periods, named after the grand tomb mounds of the era, were marked by the emergence of Buddhist art in Japan.

Golden Ages: Nara, Heian, Kamakura, and Muromachi

As we move towards the Nara and Heian periods, you will notice a further refinement in Japanese art. It was during these eras that Japanese art started to establish a distinct identity, setting itself apart from its Chinese and Korean influences. For instance, the Heian period is renowned for the Yamato-e style of painting, which often depicted scenes from court life or stories from literature.

The Kamakura and Muromachi periods saw the rise of Zen Buddhism, which had a profound impact on Japanese art. The austerity and simplicity of Zen thought were reflected in the art of the era, most notably in the dry landscape (kare-sansui) gardens and ink paintings (suibokuga).

And there you have it—a brief journey through the history of Japanese art. But remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg. As you delve deeper into each period, you will discover an intriguing world of art that speaks volumes about the culture, philosophy, and way of life in Japan during different eras. So, stay curious and keep exploring!

Imagine a time when art was not just about aesthetics, but also a means of survival. That's exactly what it was like during the Jomon period. The Jomon period, which spans from around 14000 B.C. to 300 B.C., is known for its earthenware pottery, a key part of the cultural fabric of the time.

What made Jomon pottery unique? It wasn't just a vessel for storing food—it was a canvas for expressing the creativity of the Jomon people. The pottery from this era often featured intricate patterns made with cords, hence the name Jomon, or 'cord-marked'. These patterns were not merely ornamental—they also helped to strengthen the vessels.

But pottery wasn't the only form of art during the Jomon period. The Jomon people also created clay figurines, known as dogu. Though their exact purpose remains a mystery, these figurines often had exaggerated features and were likely used in rituals or as talismans.

So, the next time you come across a piece of Jomon pottery or a dogu figurine, remember that you're not just looking at a work of art—you're looking at a snapshot of life from thousands of years ago. It's these rich historical and cultural contexts that make Japanese art so fascinating, don't you think?

Ever wondered how metalwork found its place in Japanese art? Look no further than the Yayoi Period. Lasting from around 300 B.C. to 300 A.D., this period marked a significant shift in Japanese art. Unlike the Jomon era, the Yayoi period was characterized by advancements in agriculture, social structure, and most notably, the introduction of bronze and iron.

With the advent of metalwork, the Yayoi people started creating bronze bells, known as dotaku. These weren't your typical bells though—they were often decorated with intricate patterns depicting scenes from nature and everyday life. Dotaku weren't used to make music, but played vital roles in religious ceremonies. It's an excellent example of how practicality and beauty can coexist in art.

And let's not forget about the Yayoi pottery. While Jomon pottery had a wild, free-form style, Yayoi pottery was more refined and functional. These pots often had smooth surfaces and were created using a wheel, showing the Yayoi people's progression in pottery techniques.

So, the Yayoi period wasn't just about the introduction of metalwork—it was about refining skills and creating art with a purpose. It's these progressions that make the study of Japanese art so intriguing. It's like piecing together a puzzle, one period at a time, wouldn't you agree?

As we continue our journey through the timeline of Japanese art, we arrive at the Kofun and Asuka periods. Spanning from 300 to 710 A.D., this era was a time of political and cultural shifts in Japan, and the art created during these periods reflected these changes.

Let's first talk about the Kofun period. This era is known for the creation of kofun, or burial mounds. These mounds weren't just simple graves though. They were often shaped like keyholes, surrounded by moats, and filled with clay figures called haniwa. Haniwa ranged from warriors and horses to dancers and birds, showcasing the broad spectrum of life and death in Kofun society. It's like a snapshot of the past, frozen in clay.

But the art world doesn't stand still, and the transition into the Asuka period brought its own unique flavor to Japanese art. This period saw the introduction of Buddhism to Japan, leading to a significant shift in the artistic landscape. The Asuka period was marked by the construction of Buddhist temples and the creation of Buddhist statues. These statues weren't just works of art, they were symbols of faith and religious devotion. The most famous of these is the Shaka Triad, a bronze statue depicting Buddha and two bodhisattvas.

So, from the haunting haniwa to the serene Buddhist statues, the Kofun and Asuka periods show how deeply intertwined art and society are. It's like watching the pages of a history book come alive through art. Isn't that something?

Next in line on our timeline of Japanese art is the Nara period. Running from 710 to 794 A.D., this was a time when the capital of Japan was in Nara. This period is commonly recognized for the profound influence of Chinese culture on Japanese art.

During the Nara period, a new form of sculpture, known as dry-lacquer technique, was introduced. This technique involved creating a wooden core and then applying layers of lacquer-soaked cloth over it. The result was a lighter, more durable statue. Todai-ji's Great Buddha is a prime example of what artists could achieve with this technique. Standing at over 15 meters tall, it's a testament to the power and skill of Nara period artists.

But it wasn't just sculptures that flourished. The Nara period also saw the emergence of Yamato-e, a painting style which portrayed the beauty of Japan's landscape and the elegance of its courtly life. The 'Tale of Genji' scroll is a stunning example of Yamato-e. It depicts scenes from the famous novel in vibrant color and exquisite detail, offering us a window into the world of the Nara period court.

So, whether it's the towering figure of the Great Buddha or the intricate scenes of Yamato-e, Nara period art truly showcases the refinement and elegance of Japanese art. It's like stepping into a time machine, don't you think?

On we go to the Heian period, a time that stretched from 794 to 1185 A.D. This was an exciting era for Japanese art as it saw a distinct shift away from the Chinese influences of the Nara period. Instead, Japanese artists began to develop their own unique styles and techniques.

One of the most popular art forms of the Heian period was Emaki, or picture scrolls. These were long, horizontal scrolls that depicted scenes from literature, religion, and history. The scrolls were often read from right to left, with the story unfolding as you unrolled the scroll. It's like watching a movie, but in a very old-school way!

A masterpiece of Emaki art is the 'Tale of Genji' scroll. It's not just a beautiful piece of Japanese art, but it's also considered one of the world's first novels. The scroll captures the life and times of Genji, a nobleman, and his romantic escapades. Each scene is a visual treat, filled with detailed representations of Heian period architecture, clothing, and customs.

On the other hand, calligraphy also gained prominence during the Heian era. The growing popularity of waka, a form of Japanese poetry, led to the development of a fluid and graceful style of writing. This new style was called kana, and it's still used in Japan today. In fact, if you look at modern Japanese writing, you'll see the lasting legacy of Heian period art.

From Emaki scrolls to kana calligraphy, the Heian period was a time of innovation and creativity in Japanese art. It's a reminder of how art can evolve and grow, reflecting the changing world around it.

Next stop on our journey through Japanese art history is the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, stretching from 1185 to 1573 A.D. This was a time when the military class rose to power in Japan and brought about significant changes in art and culture.

The Kamakura period was known for its realistic and dynamic sculptures, especially those depicting Buddhist deities. One of the most iconic pieces from this time is the Great Buddha of Kamakura, a huge bronze statue that you can still visit today. Unlike the serene and otherworldly figures of earlier art, this statue has a powerful presence that feels very real and tangible. It's like it could come to life any minute!

Moving on to the Muromachi period, one important development was the advent of ink wash painting, also known as Sumi-e. This style of painting uses different shades of black ink to create images that are simple yet profound. The emphasis is on capturing the spirit of the subject rather than detailing its physical appearance. Sounds abstract, right? But when you see a Sumi-e painting, you'll understand its charm. It's all about finding beauty in simplicity.

The Muromachi period also saw the rise of Zen Buddhism, which greatly influenced Japanese art. Zen principles of simplicity, austerity, and naturalness were reflected in various art forms, from painting and sculpture to tea ceremony and garden design. This was an era that truly celebrated the harmony between art and spirituality.

From the powerful sculptures of Kamakura to the minimalist ink paintings of Muromachi, these periods brought about a dynamic shift in Japanese art. It's a testament to how social and religious changes can shape the direction of art.

Fasten your seatbelts, because we're taking a quick detour to the Momoyama period, a short yet impactful part of Japanese art history. This era, lasting from 1573 to 1615, was like a firework in the night sky—brief, but oh so beautiful.

One of the defining features of Momoyama period art is the flamboyant and grandiose style. Remember the austere and simple aesthetics of the Muromachi period? Well, the Momoyama period was a complete turnaround. It was all about bold and striking visuals that screamed luxury and power.

If there's one art form that embodies the spirit of the Momoyama period, it's got to be the gold leaf folding screens, also known as 'byobu'. Just imagine walking into a room with these golden screens glowing with depictions of nature and courtly life. It's like stepping into another world, one filled with opulence and grandeur.

But it wasn't just about showing off wealth. The extravagant art of the Momoyama period also reflected the political stability and cultural growth during the time. It was a period of peace after a long era of civil wars, and this newfound peace allowed the arts to flourish.

So, despite its short span, the Momoyama period left an indelible mark on Japanese art. Its bold and luxurious aesthetics continue to enchant us, serving as a reminder of a time of prosperity and cultural blossoming in Japan's history.

Let's hop on our time machine and journey forward to the Edo period. Spanning from 1603 to 1868, the Edo period was a time of relative peace and stability. It was also a golden age for Japanese art, which bloomed in the climate of political calm.

If the Momoyama period was a firework, the Edo period was more like a lantern—steady, warm, and illuminating the way. In the world of Japanese art, the Edo period is like a treasure trove overflowing with vibrant ukiyo-e prints, ornate lacquerware, and intricate netsuke carvings.

One of the most recognizable forms of Edo period art is ukiyo-e, a genre of woodblock prints. Ukiyo-e, which translates to 'pictures of the floating world,' typically depicted scenes of everyday life, famous landmarks, and popular actors. It was like the Instagram of the Edo period—you could catch a glimpse of life in Edo just by looking at a print!

Lacquerware was another popular art form during the Edo period. While lacquerware had been a part of Japanese art for centuries, the Edo period saw a surge in its popularity. The lacquerware of this period was often decorated with maki-e, a technique that involved sprinkling gold or silver powder onto the lacquer while it was still wet. The result? A stunning piece of art that shone with every angle of light.

Netsuke, small carved toggles used to fasten a man's sash, also became an art form in their own right during the Edo period. These tiny sculptures, often no bigger than a walnut, were intricately carved and incredibly detailed. From animals and mythical creatures to scenes from folklore, the variety of netsuke designs was as vast as the imagination of the artisans who created them.

So, what can we take away from the Edo period? It was a time of peace, prosperity, and artistic innovation. The art forms that flourished during this period continue to shape Japanese art and culture, proving that the influence of the Edo period is far from over.

Now, let's fast-forward to another pivotal time in Japanese art history—the Meiji Restoration. This period, which kicked off in 1868, marked the end of the Shogunate rule and the beginning of a new era of modernization and Western influence in Japan.

Imagine being an artist in this shifting landscape. Suddenly, you're not just influenced by the traditional Japanese art styles that have been passed down through generations but also by Western art techniques that were entirely new. It was a time of blending, experimenting, and discovering new artistic identities.

Yōga, a style of painting that adopted Western techniques and themes, became popular during this period. Japanese artists began to experiment with oil paints, perspective, and shading—things that were not traditionally part of Japanese art. It was like artists were given a brand new toolbox, and they couldn't wait to see what they could create.

On the other hand, Nihonga, a style that adhered to traditional Japanese art techniques, also flourished during the Meiji period. Nihonga artists saw value in preserving the time-honored methods of Japanese art. They stuck with mineral pigments, silk canvases, and themes from nature and mythology.

Modern Japanese art isn't just limited to paintings, though. Have you ever heard of manga or anime? Bet you have! These are forms of art too, and they're a big part of contemporary Japanese culture. Manga, with its unique storytelling and art style, and anime, with its colorful animation and diverse themes, have both gained international recognition and popularity.

So, what can you take away from the Meiji Restoration and modern Japanese art? Well, it's a testament to how art evolves, adapts, and thrives even amidst great change. It's a reminder that while traditions are important, innovations can bring about a fresh perspective and a new wave of creativity.

If you enjoyed exploring the world of Japanese art and want to learn more about how classical painting techniques can be applied in the modern day, don't miss ' Classical Painting in the Modern Day ' workshop by Eric Drummond. This workshop will provide you with a fresh perspective on traditional art forms and help you incorporate classical techniques into your contemporary art practice.

Live classes every day

Learn from industry-leading creators

Get useful feedback from experts and peers

Best deal of the year

* billed annually after the trial ends.

*Billed monthly after the trial ends.

Japonisme – The Influence Of Japanese Art On Western Artists

by David Fox

In 1853, Japanese ports reopened to trade with West. Along with many other goods, Japanese art was one of the main things which were imported into the western art world.

On the crest of that wave were woodcuts prints by masters of the ukiyo-e school printmaking, which transformed Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art by demonstrating that simple, transitory, everyday subjects from ‘’the floating world’’ could be presented in appealingly decorative ways.

Like photography, the style of these prints also contributed significantly to the ‘snapshot’ angles and unconventional compositions which would become one of the main characteristic of these movements.

Paris World’s Fair 1867

When Japan took a pavilion at the World’s Fair of 1867, Parisians saw the first formal exhibition of Japanese art. The exhibition attracted a great deal of interest and resulted in all things Japanese becoming stylish and fashionable.

Equally, shiploads of oriental bric-a-brac, including lacquers, kimonos, bronzes, fans and silks had already begun pouring into France and England. Shops selling Japanese woodcut prints, fans, kimonos and antiquities popped up in Paris like mushrooms.

The French gave this new semi-movement the name ‘’Japonisme’’. It is quite ironic that at the same time when Japanese woodblock printing came to a decline because of the threat of civil war in Japan, it had found its way to inspire many European artists.

It is said that James Whistler discovered Japanese prints in a Chinese tearoom nearby London Bridge and that Claude Monet first came upon them used as wrapping paper in a spice shop in Holland.

The influence of Japan on European art was very different from the influence of other oriental art forms from earlier periods. Previous art pieces from China and other countries were seen as a sort of ‘fancy’ or fantasy for collectors, not having any true impact on European artists of the time.

In addition, Japan was secluded for centuries and the appearance of it art caused a new wave of excitement, and also, artists tried to understand what made Japanese art so unique and were inspired by the works of great Japanese artists.

It can be found several differences between ukiyo-e and western art from the same period. For instance, woodblock printing created an illusion of depth which was practically non-existent in Europeans works of the time.

Ukiyo-e had much stronger emphasis on creating dark outlines in the works, due to the fact that the Japanese consider fine handwriting an important skill by itself and the art of writing is irrevocably connected with Japanese art.

The subject matter of the ukiyo-e in 18 th and 19 th centuries was drawn from everyday life, celebrated the non-heroic, and was based on the idea that all is transient. These prints were mass-produced as woodcuts and were cheap enough for the average Japanese person, or Parisian, to afford.

In this period, the great master printmakers were Utamaro, Hiroshige and Hokusai.

The art of Japan, in particular the ukiyo-e print, was a revelation to Western artists. A stylized, narrative Japanese art form that emphasized flowing outlines, strong sense of design and simplified forms. This distinctive style of art flourished in Japan from the mid-seventeenth to the mid-nineteenth century.

Impressionists and Post-Impressionists After Ukiyo-e

Impressionism was not only about the specific colors and art based on empirical analysis and the senses, but mainly about the freedom and rather than a specified movement, it is collection of artists who rebelled against conventional art forms and each of them had their own unique style; their ‘freedom’ being the most common factor which bound them together.

The lack of lines, one of the principles in which impressionism differed from previous styles. The impressionists preferred to use natural brushstrokes, without any lines to border their creative vision, and these strokes appeared to be ‘broken’ to the unaccustomed eye.

The movement which followed impressionism was post-impressionism. It was mainly a natural answer to impressionism with a higher focus on experimenting with colors in order to achieve very personal and sacred image.

Artists stylistically influenced by ukiyo-e prints include: Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Marry Cassatt, Henry de Toulouse-Lautrec, Camille Pissarro, George Seurat, Paul Gauguin, Pierre-August Renoire etc.

The influence of ukiyo-e can be seen even within the works of such a popular painter as Vincent van Gogh. He was introduced to ukiyo-e by his brother Theo, when he moved in Paris.

It is believed that he became a collector of Japanese woodblock prints, and also did some copies; he copies two pieces of eastern woodblock prints, adding his own personal touch to them. His famous work called ‘’ The Courtesan’’ (pictured above) is inspired by Japanese art.

The painting bears resemblance to the style of woodblock printers, yet it also has Van Gogh’s personal style characteristics and his typical brushstroke.

Hokusai Katsushika

Hokusai Katsushika was one of the most important ukiyo-e artists of Japan who created several volumes of woodblock prints called ‘Manga.

Today, the term manga refers to a type of Japanese comic books; there is no evidence pointing to a connection between Hokusai’s manga and today’s comic book art – although the first mangas are said to have surfaced in the late nineteenth century, some time after Hokusai’s manga was published posthumously.

It is more widely accepted that manga as a comic book form came from American influence which adopted into the Japanese culture.

Hokusai’s manga series had a wide influence on many French Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. It was mainly seen on the prestigious French printmaker Felix Bracquemond, a husband to one of the well-known female artists of impressionism, Marie Bracquemond.

He was intrigued by the representation of nature and encouraged many other artists to study the great art from Japan.

Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas and his friend James Tissot were among the earliest collectors of Japanese art in France. Also, their own art was affected by exotic things in very different ways; Unlike Tissot, and others who came under the spell of Japan, Edgar Degas avoided staging japoneries that featured models dressed in kimonos and the conspicuous display of oriental props.

He absorbed qualities of the Japanese aesthetics that he found most sympathetic: asymmetrical compositions, aerial perspective, elongated pictorial formats, focus on singularly decorative motifs, spaces emptied of all but abstract elements of line and color.

He was fascinated by the depiction of women in manga, as he himself focused very often on ballerinas, dancers and other women in movement. See his work below, “The Dance Class”. Degas’ work also shared similarities with Japanese woodblock prints in the theme of women in day-to-day situations.

Mary Cassatt

Mary Cassatt, an American artist who lived in Paris, and the one of Degas’ close associates, had ordered and collected many pieces of ukiyo-e, like many of her contemporary colleagues, was intrigued by them.

After visiting a large exhibition of ukiyo-e prints at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, in spring 1890, she produced a set of ten color etchings in open admiration of their subjects, technical innovations and compositions.

In Japanese prints, like those of Utamaro, she found a fresh approach to the description of common events in women’s lives.

Among the things that fascinated Cassatt were the non-complex compositions from unusual standpoints, the blank spaces between the colors and the simple lines that were able to speak to the observer. She created several print series using the woodblock printing technique common in Japan; she even undertook to adding color to these prints by using several different block of wood with different colors spread onto them.

She used these prints to make her own experiments with the effects color combinations could have. Her prints after ukiyo-e, show mainly women in everyday tasks; one of the most prominent works from her series being ‘’Woman Bathing’’ (below).

Claude Monet

Claude Monet’s painting ‘’ Madame Monet en costume Japonais’’ depicts a European woman in traditional Japanese clothing surrounded by fans. Whether this painting could be considered his celebration of Asian art or, on the contrary, a mocking image of Paris, obsession with Japanese art at that time, remains a question of debate.

Monet was an avid admirer of Hokusai and had many of his prints in his possession. There is even a speculation that Hokusai’s focus on flowers may have inspired Monet to use water lilies as a model for painting.

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gauguin, a notable artist whose works are also placed within impressionism and post-impressionism, was known for his vast travels and for his admiration for native and tribal arts of many cultures. Influence of ukiyo-e on his work is most notable in the absence of shadows, which is a trait that the Japanese woodblocks also share.

Only Paul Gauguin sidestepped the then-current practice of lithography and adopted Japanese woodcut technique to the abstract expression of his forward-looking art.

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is also considered to be inspired by ukiyo-e to some degree. He was known to create commercial form of art, such as posters, just as frequently as finer works. The influence of ukiyo-e is mainly notable in these commercial works; he borrowed the style of the prominent Japanese artists, such as Utamaro, Hokusai and Harunobu, successfully recreating the ‘’flatness’’, yet dynamism of their woodblock prints.

He also adopted the exaggerated colors, contours and facial expressions found in Kabuki theater prints in order to create his eye-catching posters. Lautrec died at the same age as Van Gogh, as a result of his decadent lifestyle, but he changed the way people viewed poster printing and is considered a pioneer and revolutionist of this craft.

The End Of Isolation

Japan has been a subject of fascination ever since its harbors opened to the rest of the world. It could be argued that the end of Japan’s isolation was violent and almost plummeted the country into civil war, it also showed the world the wonders of Japanese art.

In addition, many of the most impressive pieces of European and American art were created only because the artists were inspired by what their Japanese counterparts had to offer. Even today, we are still perplexed by what Japan has to offer.

People enjoy the exotic feel of Japanese art, even their modern artists are often sought out by western consumers. In these modern times, many people enjoy Japanese cinematography, music, and their unique form of animated films called Anime.

Japanese culture and art have integrated themselves into today’s cultural consciousness, but they still retain such a degree of exoticism that they fascinate even today’s youth who are, very often mistakenly, considered by their elders to be ignorant in the ways of art.

It is left to wonder how many people who enjoy the works of impressionist and post-impressionist artist have no idea how their favorite artists were inspired by the art of a secluded and uncommon country.

About David Fox

David Fox is an artist who created davidcharlesfox.com to talk about art and creativity. He loves to write, paint, and take pictures. David is also a big fan of spending time with his family and friends.

Leave a Reply

Just Art and Fun

Now get FREE Gifts . Or latest Free phones here.

Disable Ad block to reveal all the secrets. Once done, hit a button below

The Society for Japanese Art (SJA) provides an inspiring platform for sharing knowledge and experience regarding every aspect of the visual and applied arts of Japan.

The Demon queller Zhong Kui/Shôki

The collection of Clémence d'Ennery

Émile Guimet, Tomii Masaakira and Kawanabe Kyôsai

News on Japanese Art

Looking back: Sketch to Woodblock Print

Looking back at the exciting workshop inside the Wereldmuseum depot, where curator Daan Kok showed us the process behind the production of a single ukiyo-e print.

Save the date: Fake or Genuine

We hope to see you on the 21st of January 2024 during the Fake or Genuine workshop and the New Year's reception!

Andon Magazine

Andon  (Japanese for ‘lantern’) sheds light on Japanese Art.  Andon  is published twice a year by the Society for Japanese Art and packed with lavishly illustrated research papers and essays.

Inside of Andon

Become a SJA member

Individual or institute*.

2 x Andon per year

Access to the online Andon Collection

Access to SJA activities and news

Access to a world wide network

€75 / €85 per year

Partner membership*

€25 per year

Student membership*

€40 per year

HKF Thesis Award & Exhibition tour

Sponsors of the society.

Home Essay Examples Art World Arts

Essays on Japanese Art

Impressionism and traditional japanese art – ukiyo-e, japanese art: historical context and analysis, the influence of japanese art on western art, the influence of japanese culture on western art, top similar topics.

• African Art

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

Essay on Japanese Culture

Students are often asked to write an essay on Japanese Culture in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Traditional clothing.

Japanese culture is famous for its traditional clothing. The kimono is the most well-known dress. People wear it on special occasions like festivals and weddings. It’s made of silk and comes in many colors and patterns. The obi is a wide belt tied around the kimono. It’s not just clothing; it’s a symbol of Japanese beauty.

Japanese food is more than just sushi. Rice is a staple in their meals. They also love noodles like ramen and udon. Meals often include fish, pickled vegetables, and miso soup. Eating in Japan is an art. They value presentation and flavor.

Festivals are big in Japan. They celebrate the seasons, like cherry blossoms in spring. There’s music, dancing, and food stalls. Children and adults dress up and enjoy games. Lanterns light up the night. These events show Japan’s love for nature and community.

Japanese arts include delicate crafts and performances. Origami, paper folding, and calligraphy, beautiful writing, are popular. In theaters, you can see kabuki, a dramatic play style with colorful costumes. Their art is about detail and expressing feelings.

Respect is key in Japan. People bow to greet each other. They are polite and considerate. Children learn to respect elders and each other early on. This respect makes their society peaceful and orderly. It’s a core part of being Japanese.

250 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Japanese traditions.

Japan is known for its unique traditions. Tea ceremonies show the beauty of calm and respect. People sit on tatami mats and enjoy green tea. The host carefully prepares the tea, showing the importance of every step. This tradition helps people find peace and enjoy simple moments.

Festivals and Celebrations

Japanese festivals are colorful and exciting. They celebrate the seasons, like cherry blossoms in spring or leaf colors in autumn. People wear traditional clothes called yukata and enjoy street food. Fireworks light up the sky in summer, and everyone feels joy together.

Arts in Japan

Japanese art includes beautiful paintings, calligraphy, and pottery. Manga and anime are popular among kids. These are comic books and cartoons that tell all kinds of stories. Origami, the art of paper folding, is also famous. With just a paper, you can make animals, flowers, and more.

Japanese Food

Food in Japan is not just about taste but also how it looks. Sushi is a well-known dish made with rice and fish. It’s healthy and delicious. Japanese people also enjoy noodles like ramen and soba. Meals are often served with green tea, which is good for your health.

Respect and Manners

In Japan, people greet each other by bowing. This shows respect. Kids learn to be polite and listen carefully when others speak. Saying “thank you” and “please” is very important. In schools, students clean their classrooms to learn responsibility and respect for their environment.

Japanese culture is rich with traditions, celebrations, art, food, and respect. It’s a beautiful blend of old and new, where each part is important and adds to the whole picture.

500 Words Essay on Japanese Culture

Introduction to japanese culture.

Japanese culture is like a beautiful tapestry, woven with history, traditions, and modern life. It’s a unique blend that forms the way of life in Japan, a country in East Asia. The culture is known for its traditional arts, distinct foods, and strong sense of community. Let’s explore some key parts of this fascinating culture.

Traditional Arts

When you think of Japan, you might imagine delicate paper cranes or beautiful paintings of cherry blossoms. These are part of the traditional arts that have been passed down for generations. Origami, the art of paper folding, is not just a craft but a way for people to express creativity. Calligraphy, which is the art of writing with a brush and ink, is another important traditional art. It’s not just about writing words; it’s about making the writing look like a piece of art.

Food in Japan

Japanese food is famous all over the world. Sushi, which is rice with fish or vegetables, is probably the most well-known dish. But there’s so much more! Try a bowl of ramen, which is a type of noodle soup, or tempura, which is seafood or vegetables that have been battered and fried. Japanese people take great care in preparing and presenting their food, making it not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Festivals, or ‘matsuri’, are a big part of Japanese culture. They are often lively events with music, dance, and colorful costumes. One famous festival is the Cherry Blossom Festival, or ‘Hanami’, where people gather under blooming cherry trees to enjoy the beauty and welcome spring. Another important celebration is ‘Obon’, which is a time to remember and honor ancestors. During this time, people might visit their hometowns, clean family graves, and enjoy traditional dances.

Family and Community

Family is at the heart of Japanese society. Respect for elders and ancestors is very important. Many homes have a small altar called a ‘butsudan’, where they place pictures and offer food to remember family members who have passed away. Community is also key in Japan. People often work together to keep their neighborhoods clean and safe, and there’s a strong sense of helping each other out.

Modern Pop Culture

Japan is not just about tradition; it has a vibrant modern culture too. Japanese anime (animated movies and TV shows) and manga (comic books) are popular all over the world. Characters like Pikachu from Pokémon have fans of all ages. Japanese technology is also cutting-edge, with inventions like high-speed trains and advanced robots.

Japanese culture is a rich mix of old and new. From the quiet beauty of a tea ceremony to the excitement of a high-tech video game, there’s something for everyone. It’s a culture that values both respect for the past and innovation for the future. Learning about Japanese culture can be a fun adventure, full of surprises and new experiences.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Japanese Family
• Essay on Japanese Friend
• Essay on Japanese Holiday

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Home — Essay Samples — Arts & Culture — Japanese Art — Japanese Manga As An Art Form

Japanese Manga as an Art Form

• Categories: Japanese Art

About this sample

Words: 2738 |

14 min read

Published: Nov 8, 2021

Words: 2738 | Pages: 6 | 14 min read

Table of contents

Introduction, what is an art form, critical analysis, works cited, manga as an art form, manga as literature.

• “Art Form.” Merriam-Webster, Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/art%20form.
• Jarnes, Mark. “'The 70th Anniversary of Sazae-San: The Best of Machiko Hasegawa'.” The Japan Times, The Japan Times, 16 Aug. 2016, www.japantimes.co.jp/culture/2016/08/16/arts/openings-in-tokyo/70th-anniversary-sazae-san-best-machiko-hasegawa/#.XWRB6ZMzYWo.
• Kirkup, James. “Obituary: Hasegawa Machiko.” The Independent, Independent Digital News and Media, 22 Oct. 2011, www.independent.co.uk/news/people/obituary-hasegawa-machiko-1533204.html.
• Montales, Timothy. “Machiko Hasegawa, the Godmother of Japanese Anime.” Hobby Issue, 18 June 2018, hobbyissue.com/news/view/17898.
• Sieg, Linda. “Japan's Peaceful Heisei Era Leaves Legacy of Change, Growth and Tragedy.” The Japan Times, 29 Apr. 2019, www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/04/29/national/japans-peaceful-heisei-era-leaves-legacy-change-growth-tragedy/#.XWw5_JMzYWo.
• Solomon, Charles. “Interview: The Man behind 'Naruto'.” Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 17 Dec. 2008, www.latimes.com/entertainment/arts/la-etw-naruto17-2008dec17-story.html.
• SouthFloridaReporter.com. “The First Comic Book, ‘Famous Funnies,' Was Published In 1933.” South Florida Reporter, 25 Sept. 2017, southfloridareporter.com/first-comic-book-famous-funnies-published-1933/.
• “Tezuka's Life (1958 – 1964).” Tezuka In English, 30 Apr. 2017, tezukainenglish.com/wp/?page_id=342.
• “Uzumaki Naruto!” Naruto, Vol. 1 The Tests Of The Ninja, by Masashi Kishimoto, vol. 1, VIZ Media, 1999, pp. 15–15.

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Dr. Karlyna PhD

Verified writer

• Expert in: Arts & Culture

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

7 pages / 3062 words

1 pages / 451 words

3 pages / 1764 words

7 pages / 3314 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Japanese Art

Art has existed for a long time and has influenced us in many ways. It helps us understand who we are, it tells us stories from centuries and give us the details of the life of the past. Back in the ancient times, art was used [...]

'One fine day' in 1854 an ominous black ship sailed into Nagasaki harbor, prying open the wall that stood between the East and the West. On another 'fine day' in 1904 European audiences saw the premiere of what was to become one [...]

African art is known to be different by any Western art tradition, simply because African art is created on the basis that the form and the aesthetic of the work come second behind the actual function of the work. A prime [...]

Judo had its origin in the ancient Japanese art of jujutsu, a system of hand-to-hand combat. The bushi of feudal Japan (samurai) are usually credited for developing jujutsu (at their time the art was known as Yoroi kumi-uchi, a [...]

The Roman Empire is looked back upon as one of the most influential civilizations of human history. Their philosophical, technological, and artistic developments would remain outmatched by the rest of the Western world for over [...]

In this essay, I would like to discuss how African art has changed and inspire European art. African art is a beautiful and deeply interesting kind of art, full of traditions and spirituality. During the time this art has [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History Essays

Japanese writing boxes.

Illustrated Legends of the Kitano Tenjin Shrine (Kitano Tenjin engi emaki)

Illustrated Biography of Hōnen (Shūikotokūden-e)

Portable Writing Cabinet with Tokugawa Family Crests, Chrysanthemums, and Foliage Scrolls

• Kōami School

Plate from the Erotic Book Mounds of Dyed Colors: A Pattern Book for the Boudoir (Someiro no yama neya no hinagata), First Month

• Okumura Masanobu

Writing Box with Portrait of Fujiwara no Ietaka and His Poem about the Tatsuta River

Writing Box with Warbler in Plum Tree

Writing Box (suzuribako) with Waterfall and Auspicious Characters

Box for Square Calligraphy Paper (shikishi-bako) with an Auspicious Landscape of Young Pines and Nandina Shrubs

Set of Five Writing Boxes with Japanese Globeflowers, Plum Blossoms, and Interlaced Roundels

Table and Writing Set

• Kubo Shunman

Letter Box with Pine, Bamboo, Plum Blossom, and Family Crests

Document Box with a Scene from the “Butterflies” Chapter of The Tale of Genji

Monika Bincsik Department of Asian Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art

January 2014

The high esteem accorded calligraphy in premodern Japanese culture is demonstrated not only by the admiration for scrolls of religious texts and poetry as works of art, but also by the way the accoutrements of brush writing were often created using the finest materials and craftsmanship.

While writing boxes ( suzuri bako , “inkstone box”) are designed for the practical function of housing writing implements such as the inkstone ( suzuri ), they are also often consummate examples of lacquer art. Inkstones were made of earthenware, porcelain, or stone that has a slightly abrasive surface to facilitate the grinding of solid inksticks ( sumi ) with water while preparing liquid ink. These solid inksticks are fashioned from soot (usually that of pine trees) and animal glue, and often scented with cloves or sandalwood. The dissolved ink accumulates in the well of the inkstone, and the calligrapher can control the density of the ink by adjusting the amount of water used and how long the inkstick is ground.

The inkstone is the most precious and permanent object of the writing set, since brushes ( fude ) wear out and inksticks eventually are ground down. The writing box also typically contains a water-dropper ( suiteki ), a small knife ( kogatana or tōsu ), and an inkstick holder ( sumi-basami ). Partially ground inksticks are placed into the holder, so even the smallest piece can be easily gripped. Many writing boxes are constructed of lacquered wood and often lavishly decorated with maki-e (“sprinkled picture”) and mother-of-pearl inlay. In many instances, the handles of the implements are also embellished with maki-e , and the decoration of the whole set is carefully coordinated. Writing boxes were developed and perfected in Japan, whereas in China the “Four Treasures of the Study” (brush, inkstick, inkstone, and paper) were usually kept on the writing desk, without a box. Writing boxes in Japan had a decorative function as well, and examples of special beauty or distinguished provenance could be displayed as prized possessions.

For both calligraphers and painters, the inkstone’s quality is as important as that of the inkstick, as it affects the texture of the ink prepared with it. In China, earthenware inkstones were produced from the Tang dynasty (618–907) onward. Natural stones such as volcanic tuff and a variety of slate were also used and these can be categorized by the locales of the quarries from which the raw stone was excavated. Rare and precious stones, crystal, or jade were also sometimes used to prepare exquisite inkstones. During the Song period , numerous famous, “named” inkstones were prepared and a refined connoisseurship developed. In Japan, the use of earthenware inkstones started during the seventh century and stone ones from around the tenth or eleventh century. The inkstones can be divided into two groups: imported from China and domestic Japanese-style stones that can be further grouped according to material or production technique. Inkstones were made in various shapes, most commonly rectangular, but round, oval, figurative, or richly decorated carved variations were also favored. Sometimes the shape of the writing box was adjusted to that of the inkstone. In Japan, during the Festival of the Weaver Maiden, on the seventh day of the seventh month a ritual is performed: “washing the inkstone” ( suzuri arai ), as the cleaning of the inkstone is said to encourage scholarly diligence.

Wooden writing boxes were prepared in Japan at least as early as the ninth or tenth century, and some of them were lacquered red, perhaps as an indication of an official position or rank. Paintings of the Heian period (794–1185) occasionally feature images of lacquer writing boxes. One of the earliest surviving examples is a Heian-period portrait of the Buddhist monk Jion Daishi (Kuiji; 632–682) in the Yakushiji in Nara, where we can see various writing implements on a small lacquer stand next to his chair. Various types of writing boxes were used in palace settings, including two-tiered boxes, shallow writing boxes, and small-size writing boxes that were part of cosmetic boxes ( tebako ). Some of these early writing boxes were quite large and also contained paper, but later the paper or documents were kept in separate boxes ( ryōshibako ) ( 1981.243.1a–f ).

A surviving Kamakura-period (1185–1333) maki-e and mother-of-pearl writing box has two little trays placed on the two sides of the inkstone (a larger one on the right and a smaller one on the left) for the brushes, handle, and other contents. This arrangement or the combination of one tray with the inkstone compartment became the most common writing box configurations ( 25.224a–e ; 1980.221 ). In the Muromachi period (1392–1573), several famous maki-e writing boxes were made, but interestingly enough, the written and visual sources of the period mostly record writing utensils imported from China. The prominent feature of the decoration of the Muromachi writing boxes is the literary reference to Japanese classics, mainly to anthologies, such as the Kokin wakashū (A Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern, ca. 920) ( 29.100.695a–e ). The poems were represented visually, but the composition often contained hidden cursive characters that should be read together with the pictorial elements ( 81.1.173 ). The decoration is composed to continue on the inside of the lid, inside of the box as well as on the sides. We can see a variety of inner configurations: some of the boxes contain two asymmetrical trays, a few have only one large tray next to the inkstone, and others have supporting panels on both sides of the inkstone compartment to support the implements. During the Higashiyama period (later fifteenth century), the shōin -style interior decoration designated two areas for writing utensils: formal locations featured Chinese implements , informal spaces Japanese domestic utensils, including writing boxes. Many of the Muromachi-period writing boxes became famous collectibles, and now most of them are highly regarded Important Cultural Properties. From the mid-sixteenth century, writing boxes and writing tables ( bundai ) were prepared in sets. Momoyama-period (1573–1615) writing boxes are recognized for their bold designs. A new style, characterized by asymmetrical compositions, often depicting autumn grasses executed in flat maki-e ( hiramaki-e ) is associated with the Kōdaiji Temple in Kyoto (Kōdaiji maki-e ).

During the Edo period (1615–1868), several new box shapes and structures were created with a wide variety of decorative designs, including references to classical literature ( 29.100.688 ; 29.100.695a–e ) and motifs inspired by everyday life or patterns shared with other decorative art genres ( 81.1.136a–z ) and kimono. Elaborate, luxurious maki-e decorated writing boxes were prepared by the two well-known maki-e master families: the Kōami in Edo (formerly in Kyoto) ( 81.1.133a–h ) and the Igarashi in Kaga Province (present-day Ishikawa Prefecture). New, distinctive styles were developed by Hon’ami Kōetsu (1558–1637) and Ogata Kōrin (1658–1716) characterized by bold, graphic decoration and pewter inlays in addition to the maki-e and mother-of-pearl embellishment. These Rinpa-style lacquer writing boxes remained popular through the nineteenth century. Ogawa Haritsu (1663–1747), the eccentric lacquer master, created writing boxes with unconventional decorations and techniques such as the inclusion and imitation of ceramic, metal, or carved red lacquer inlays.

Various complex structures developed from the Heian-period “writing box prototypes,” including tiered writing boxes for poetry contests or incense games ( 81.1.136a–z ) and combinations of cosmetic sets with writing boxes such as the portable “comb-box” ( tabikushi-bako ) that includes a special drawer for the writing implements. From the early Edo period , writing boxes, document boxes, writing tables, and letter boxes ( fubako ) became part of wedding sets (dowry) and were prepared in standard sizes, often decorated with auspicious motifs such as cranes or pine, bamboo, and plum patterns ( 10.7.22 ). The appreciation of calligraphy and painting was also reflected in the preparation of specialized maki-e stationery, such as boxes for elongated poem slips ( tanzaku ) or square-shaped poem cards ( shikishi ) ( 81.1.152a,b ).

During the Meiji period (1868–1912), along with the emergence of innovative writing box shapes and decorations reflecting modernist sensibilities, works drawing on historical styles and decorative schemes were revived and copies of famous boxes were prepared. Elaborately crafted sets of writing boxes, document boxes, and writing tables were often featured in world expositions, as they represented indigenous Japanese calligraphy traditions ( 1981.243.1a–f ). Westerners began collecting Japanese writing boxes in earnest from the early Meiji period onward.

Bincsik, Monika. “Japanese Writing Boxes.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/jabo/hd_jabo.htm (January 2014)

Further Reading

Bincsik, Monika. "Plum Flowers and Cherry Blossoms: Auspicious Symbols of a Political Alliance: A Maki-e Daimyo Wedding Set," in Orientations 40, no. 6 (September 2009) pp. 73–79.

Pekarik, Andrew W. Japanese Lacquer, 1600–1900: Selections from the Charles A. Greenfield Collection . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1980. See on MetPublications

Watt, James C. Y., and Barbara Brennan Ford. East Asian Lacquer: The Florence and Herbert Irving Collection . New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1991. See on MetPublications

Additional Essays by Monika Bincsik

• Bincsik, Monika. “ Japanese Incense .” (March 2009)
• Bincsik, Monika. “ Japanese Weddings in the Edo Period (1615–1868) .” (March 2009)

Related Essays

• Japanese Illustrated Handscrolls
• Japanese Incense
• The Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Japanese Weddings in the Edo Period (1615–1868)
• Muromachi Period (1392–1573)
• Yangban : The Cultural Life of the Joseon Literati
• Buddhism and Buddhist Art
• Calligraphy in Islamic Art
• Edo-Period Japanese Porcelain
• French Furniture in the Eighteenth Century: Case Furniture
• Heian Period (794–1185)
• Kamakura and Nanbokucho Periods (1185–1392)
• The Kano School of Painting
• Lacquerware of East Asia
• Netsuke: From Fashion Fobs to Coveted Collectibles
• Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127)
• The Origins of Writing
• Rinpa Painting Style
• Seasonal Imagery in Japanese Art
• Tang Dynasty (618–907)
• Woodblock Prints in the Ukiyo-e Style

List of Rulers

• List of Rulers of Japan
• China, 500–1000 A.D.
• Japan, 1000–1400 A.D.
• Japan, 1400–1600 A.D.
• Japan, 1600–1800 A.D.
• Japan, 1800–1900 A.D.
• Japan, 500–1000 A.D.
• Aquatic Animal
• Calligraphy
• Chinese Literature / Poetry
• Floral Motif
• Heian Period
• Japanese Literature / Poetry
• Kamakura Period
• Literature / Poetry
• Meiji Period
• Muromachi Period
• Northern Song Dynasty
• Printmaking
• Southern Song Dynasty
• Tang Dynasty
• Writing Implement
• Yamato-e Style

Artist or Maker

• Hon'ami Kōetsu
• Ogata Kōrin
• Tawaraya Sōtatsu

• Entertainment
• Environment
• Information Science and Technology
• Social Issues

Home Essay Samples Art

Essay Samples on Japanese Art

The effect of japanese aesthetic on edgar degas' and other's work.

The appropriation of other cultures in European art is a curiosity that has long attracted scholars. The introduction of non-western motifs into the European design vocabulary was equally novel and became an alternative to the historically based designs associated with various revivalist styles in the...

• Edgar Degas
• Japanese Art
• Visual Arts

Sexualization in Japanese Anime as Its Most Peculiar Feature

In the world of animation, the overseas audience sometimes does not get to see the actual show that is originally created due to localization in the form of censorship. Many anime shows that first came to the United States were dubbed and heavily edited to...

Anime: History and Artistic Analysis

Abstract Anime is not just cartoons. Many people are bogged down in myths and delusions. Losing the opportunity to understand this modern art with its history and different types. After all, 'Anime' a modern elevated art form. Introduction What makes “Anime” unique and a separate...

• Japanese Culture

Japanese Anime and Its Influence on the American Culture

Japanese animation or anime is as popular as it’s ever been in the United State. Even though America televisions edits most of the shows because of kids watching anime still have a huge impact on American culture throughout the years. Japanese animators were also inspired...

Yokai as a part of Japanese Folklore and Culture

Yokai are strange and supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. In ancient times yokai, or “monster” in the west was created to embody a certain cultural moment. The world of yokai also includes subsections such as ghosts (yurei), gods (kami), transformed humans and animals (bakemono), and...

Stressed out with your paper?

Consider using writing assistance:

• 100% unique papers
• 3 hrs deadline option

Best topics on Japanese Art

1. The Effect of Japanese Aesthetic on Edgar Degas’ and Other’s Work

2. Sexualization in Japanese Anime as Its Most Peculiar Feature

3. Anime: History and Artistic Analysis

4. Japanese Anime and Its Influence on the American Culture

5. Yokai as a part of Japanese Folklore and Culture

• Jean-Michel Basquiat
• Frida Kahlo
• Ansel Adams
• Impressionism
• Salvador Dali
• Michelangelo

Need writing help?

You can always rely on us no matter what type of paper you need

*No hidden charges

100% Unique Essays

Absolutely Confidential

Money Back Guarantee

By clicking “Send Essay”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement. We will occasionally send you account related emails

You can also get a UNIQUE essay on this or any other topic

Thank you! We’ll contact you as soon as possible.

Essays About Japan: Top 5 Examples and 5 Prompts

Japan is a beautiful country famous for its lush landscape, delicious food, and well-mannered people. Here are some examples of essays about Japan.

A developed country in Asia known as the “land of the rising sun,” Japan has become a hot commodity for tourism and business. Japan is truly a sight to behold, from its beautiful cherry blossoms, efficient public transportation system, and delicious food. 

Japan’s rich history has allowed it to develop into one of the most advanced nations in the world, and its technology is renowned worldwide. Moreover, its people are known for their discipline, hard work, and resilience, even in the face of severe natural disasters. Japan is, without a doubt, a country worth visiting. 

If you want to write essays about Japan, here are our best essay examples and writing prompts to help you begin. 

1. What Japan Taught Me About Life by Beth Louise

2. japan experience: reflection on japanese culture by rayan elhafiz abdalla, 3. what i learned about design from travel in japan by teo yu siang.

• 4.  The best time to visit Japan by Pat Kay

5. A Day Trip To Kobe by David Swanson

5 prompts for essays about japan, 1. what does japan mean to you , 2. misogyny in japanese society, 3. why visit japan, 4. japan’s history, 5. living in japan: what’s it like.

“In fact, there’s so much to see and do that it feels like a lifetime of exploring would never uncover all that’s on offer. It’s also a bright, buzzing lesson in living fast; just wandering around in the crowds is a massive adrenaline rush, and Monday nights are as mental as Fridays. But despite the intensity of a city so large, people are calm and quiet. It’s the most magical juxtaposition. Everything is moving at light-speed, but with such efficiency and thoughtfulness, that it feels like a well-oiled, intuitive machine, powering a ride that you never want to get off.”

In her essay, Louise writes about her experience traveling to Tokyo, Japan. She compares it to a machine, with all the people in the city playing their part. She is amazed by the people’s focus, discipline, manners, and sense of purpose, and she can better appreciate life’s simplicity. She is mesmerized by Japan and recommends booking a trip to Tokyo as soon as possible. 

You might also like these essays about being yourself and essays about college .

“People were very friendly, they will greet you even if they don’t know you. One shocking incident that I will not forgot, is when the cashier was trying to help me put all my coin money in my wallet with me. In America I am not used to having someone put my money inside my wallet, that is really invading personal space. However, I learned that in Japan it seems normal to just drop off someone’s coins in their wallet.”

Similar to Louise, Abdalla reflects on new things he discovered about Japan and its people during his time there. These range from trivial things such as the “Pokemon Go” rollout in the country to the Japanese’ sense of honor and discipline. He recounts an experience in which the cashier was helping him put his change into his wallet, something he is not used to back home. He provides excellent, although short, insight into Japan, its culture, and its people. 

“Everything around us is designed: from the smartphones we use every day to the tactile paving on a walkway. But it’s often hard to examine the designed environment around us with eyes as fresh as a tourist’s. So if you’ve made it to the end of this post, I’ve got a challenge for you: The next time you take a walk outside, try to become aware of the thousands of design decisions around you. What works, and what can be improved?”

Siang writes about the edge that Japanese cities and society in general have because they are well-designed. He cites innovations such as fast, automated cash register machines and aid for the visually impaired and recalls lessons such as the importance of accessibility when designing something. 

4.   The best time to visit Japan by Pat Kay

“When people ask me “When is the best time to visit Japan?”, I usually reply with “anytime”. Japan is always a good idea, at any time of year. It’s truly an all-year-round destination that provides vastly varied experiences throughout its distinct 4 seasons. Whether you’re a traveller who loves snow, or one who thrives in humidity; a traveller who wants to see beautiful nature changes, or wants to be thrown into crowds; whatever your style of travel, there’s a season and a time for that.”

Kay describes the weather and activities during the different seasons in Japan, giving readers an idea of when they would prefer to visit. Japan ranges from the ethereal but chaotic cherry blossom season to the calm, frigid snow season; however, each year’s season has its own charm. Kay’s essay gives good insight into the best times to visit Japan.

“When planning a visit to Kobe, consider the fact that the city has been completely rebuilt since 1995, following the great Hanshin earthquake that leveled much of the city. Except for a few memorials, you likely won’t be aware of the destruction at all. Instead, what you will discover is a cosmopolitan port city where foreign influences intermingle, museums are dedicated to sake, and a conveniently compact and walkable quarter showcases a robust nightlife scene that has featured jazz on the menu for nearly a century. Oh, and, of course, there is the beef.”

In this short write-up, Swanson lists the best things to do in Kobe, Japan, a place best known for its top-quality beef. However, there are many things to do in the city besides eating beef, such as viewing historical buildings, going to the hot springs, and visiting the botanical gardens. However, Swanson notes that eating is an integral part of a trip to Kobe, and one should not miss out on trying the beef. 

In your essay, you can write about the country’s significance to you. For example, are you from there, or do you have Japanese ancestry? Have you visited? Write about your connection to the country and why this connection exists in the first place. If Japan has a special place in your heart, this essay topic is for you. 

When editing for grammar, we also recommend taking the time to improve the readability score of a piece of writing before publishing or submitting

With all its glory and excellence, Japan is less evolved in gender equality. So how are women treated in Japan? First, delve into research about the treatment of women in Japanese society, and show how the culture differs from modern western gender equality ideologies. Then, discuss why Japan is behind in encouraging women’s equal rights. Make sure to cite research, statistics, and interviews to support your point. 

This topic is straightforward; whether you have been or not, try to persuade others to visit the country. Include highlights that others should visit and suggestions for places others can visit. If Japan was a bad experience for you, go the other way: why should you not visit Japan?

Japan has a dark history surrounding its role in World War II. In your essay, briefly explain these events and research their effects on Japan after the war. How did the war change Japan- for better or for worse? Elaborate on the impact and, as always, include references to strengthen your arguments. This is quite a broad topic, so you can focus on one element of Japanese society: values, city planning, relationships with tourists, race, inequality, and gender equality.

Based on reading articles and sample essays as well as any experiences in Japan, list the advantages and disadvantages of living in Japan and conclude whether it would be ideal for moving to Japan or not. Use anecdotes from travel writers or people who live in Japan to show why living in japan is enjoyable or not so enjoyable. Pick a stance for a compelling argumentative essay.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

If you’re stuck picking your next essay topic, check out our guide on how to write an essay about diversity .

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

View all posts

• Environment
• Information Science
• Social Issues
• Argumentative
• Cause and Effect
• Classification
• Compare and Contrast
• Descriptive
• Exemplification
• Informative
• Controversial
• Exploratory
• What Is an Essay
• Length of an Essay
• Generate Ideas
• Types of Essays
• Structuring an Essay
• Outline For Essay
• Essay Introduction
• Thesis Statement
• Body of an Essay
• Writing a Conclusion
• Essay Writing Tips
• Drafting an Essay
• Revision Process
• Fix a Broken Essay
• Format of an Essay
• Essay Examples
• Essay Checklist
• Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Research Paper
• Write My Research Paper
• Write My Essay
• Custom Essay Writing Service
• Admission Essay Writing Service
• Pay for Essay
• Academic Ghostwriting
• Write My Book Report
• Case Study Writing Service
• Dissertation Writing Service
• Coursework Writing Service
• Lab Report Writing Service
• Do My Assignment
• Buy College Papers
• Capstone Project Writing Service
• Buy Research Paper
• Custom Essays for Sale

Can’t find a perfect paper?

• Free Essay Samples

Analysis of Japanese and Chinese Art

Updated 04 August 2023

Downloads 59

Category Art ,  Culture

Topic Japanese Culture

Art as a Cultural Identity

Art is a fundamental aspect of the Japanese and Chinese culture, and in most cases, it is attributed as a form of identity for the two cultures. Analysis of the two types of art provides the understanding that Japanese art can trace its origin to Chinese art but over the years Japanese art has transformed to adopt its unique identity. Japanese and Chinese art are unique and distinct but there share some similarities based on the themes used.

Similarity in Themes

One of the similarities identified in the two forms of art is the depiction of the subject matter. An analysis of the Japanese and Chinese art shows a continuous use of traditional forms such as figures and landscapes in their paintings (Metropolitan Museum of Art). The two cultures used this aspect where they incorporated depictions of different features associated with the community such as the Bento 513 and Shapiro 2791 (Metropolitan Museum of Art).

Use of Color and Design

In the analysis of the art themes used by the Japanese and the Chinese, we can identify similarity in the use of color and design. The Japanese and Chinese painters opted for the use of linear perspective, which entailed the incorporation of relative positions of size and distance used in line with actual presentations, in their paintings (Metropolitan Museum of Art). In this case, both the Japanese and Chinese painters favored the theme associated with oil paintings which can be seen in the Fiero 92 and Utamaro 1753-1806 (Metropolitan Museum of Art).

Architecture in Art

Japanese and Chinese art are seen to adopt a similar theme in the application of architecture in their paintings and drawings. Based on the use of architecture in the art as a crucial theme, the two cultures managed to maintain a constant representation of harmony with nature (Metropolitan Museum of Art). The theme was brought about by the use of ferns and bamboos, and rocks to depict the serenity of the gardens as a place of meditation with examples of such art include Rutherford 114-119 and Fiero 89-93 (Metropolitan Museum of Art).

Metropolitan Museum of Art. “Great Waves: Chinese Themes in the Arts of Korea and Japan | The Metropolitan Museum of Art.” Metropolitan Museum of Art, https://www.metmuseum.org/press/exhibitions/2003/great-waves-chinese-themes-in-the-arts-of-korea-and-japan. Accessed 5 Oct. 2018.

Deadline is approaching?

Wait no more. Let us write you an essay from scratch

Related Essays

Related topics.

Find Out the Cost of Your Paper

Type your email

By clicking “Submit”, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy policy. Sometimes you will receive account related emails.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

The Saturday Profile

Documentary Filmmaker Explores Japan’s Rigorous Education Rituals

Her movies try to explain why Japan is the way it is, showing both the upsides and downsides of the country’s commonplace practices. Her latest film focuses on an elementary school.

By Motoko Rich

Reporting from Tokyo

The defining experience of Ema Ryan Yamazaki’s childhood left her with badly scraped knees and her classmates with broken bones.

During sixth grade in Osaka, Japan, Ms. Yamazaki — now a 34-year-old documentary filmmaker — practiced for weeks with classmates to form a human pyramid seven levels high for an annual school sports day. Despite the blood and tears the children shed as they struggled to make the pyramid work, the accomplishment she felt when the group kept it from toppling became “a beacon of why I feel like I am resilient and hard-working.”

Now, Ms. Yamazaki, who is half-British, half-Japanese, is using her documentary eye to chronicle such moments that she believes form the essence of Japanese character, for better or worse.

To outsiders, Japan is often seen as an orderly society where the trains run on time, the streets are impeccably clean, and the people are generally polite and work cooperatively. Ms. Yamazaki has trained her camera on the educational practices and rigorous discipline instilled from an early age that she believes create such a society.

Her films present nonjudgmental, nuanced portraits that try to explain why Japan is the way it is, while also showing the potential costs of those practices. By showing both the upsides and downsides of Japan’s commonplace rituals, particularly in education, she also invites insiders to interrogate their longstanding customs.

Her latest film, “ The Making of a Japanese ,” which premiered last fall at the Tokyo International Film Festival, documents one year at an elementary school in western Tokyo, where students align their shoes ramrod straight in storage cubbies, clean their classrooms and serve lunch to their classmates.

In an earlier documentary, “ Koshien: Japan’s Field of Dreams ,” Ms. Yamazaki showed high school baseball players pushed to physical extremes and often reduced to tears as they vied to compete in Japan’s annual summer tournament .

In the schools highlighted by Ms. Yamazaki, both films show what can at times seem like an almost militaristic devotion to order, teamwork and self-sacrifice. But the documentaries also portray teachers and coaches trying to preserve the best of Japanese culture while acknowledging that certain traditions might damage the participants.

“If we can figure out what good things to keep and what should be changed — of course, that’s the million dollar question,” Ms. Yamazaki said.

“If we don’t have those what seem ‘extreme’ parts of society — or more realistically as we have less of it, as I see happening,” wrote Ms. Yamazaki in a follow-up email, “we might see trains in Japan be late in the future.”

Some extreme scenes show up in her films. In “The Making of a Japanese,” for instance, one first-grade teacher strongly chastises a first grader and makes her cry in front of her classmates. But the film also shows the young student conquering her deficiencies to proudly perform in front of the school.

Ms. Yamazaki “showed the reality as it is,” said Hiroshi Sugita, a professor of education at Kokugakuin University who appears briefly in the film lecturing the school’s faculty.

Having grown up in Japan and then trained as a filmmaker at New York University, Ms. Yamazaki has a one-foot-in, one-foot-out perspective.

In contrast to a complete “outsider who is exoticizing things, I think she is able to bring a perspective that has more respect and authenticity,” said Basil Tsiokos, senior programmer of nonfiction features at the Sundance Film Festival who selected two of Ms. Yamazaki’s films for documentary showcases in Nantucket and New York.

Ms. Yamazaki grew up near Osaka, the daughter of a British college professor and Japanese schoolteacher, and spent summers in England. When she transferred from a Japanese school to an international academy in Kobe for her middle and high school years, she was surprised that janitors, not the students, cleaned the classrooms. Relishing the freedom to choose electives, she enrolled in a video film class.

She decided to leave Japan for college partly because, as someone of multiracial heritage, she was tired of being treated as a foreigner.

When she arrived at N.Y.U., most of her classmates wanted to direct feature films. Ms. Yamazaki enrolled in a documentary class taught by Sam Pollard , a filmmaker who also worked as an editor for Spike Lee and others, and embraced the medium.

Mr. Pollard spotted her talent right away. “You have to apply yourself to figure out what the story is,” he said. “She had that.”

While she was still an undergraduate, Mr. Pollard offered Ms. Yamazaki some editing work. After graduation, she said, “a lot of my friends were smoking pot and were these artist dreamer people with grand ideas.” But she took on multiple editing gigs to support her passion projects. Even now, editing helps support her documentary work.

She attributed her work ethic to her years in Japanese elementary school. “People would be like, ‘you’re so responsible, you’re such a good team player, you’re working so hard,’” she recalled. She regarded her efforts as “below average in terms of a Japanese standard.”

She met her future husband, Eric Nyari, while interviewing for a job to edit a documentary about the Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto that Mr. Nyari was producing. She didn’t land the job, but the pair became friends. Mr. Nyari, who describes her as “a dictator — in a good way,” is now the primary producer of all her documentaries.

Ms. Yamazaki made the leap from editing to professional directing with a short film for Al Jazeera, “ Monk by Blood ,” that examined the complicated family and gender dynamics at a Buddhist temple in Kyoto.

Next she chose a subject that had nothing to do with Japan. “ Monkey Business: The Adventures of Curious George’s Creators ” brought her more attention as it screened at film festivals in Los Angeles and Nantucket.

Ms. Yamazaki and Mr. Nyari rented an apartment in Tokyo seven years ago and Ms. Yamazaki began work on “Koshien.”

One of the high schools she wanted to use in the film is where the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani had trained, but his former coach, Hiroshi Sasaki, was wary after years of media requests.

Mr. Sasaki softened when he saw how Ms. Yamazaki showed up with her crew in the morning, often before the players arrived, and stayed late at night to film the team cleaning the field.

One afternoon, after he had barred her from a particularly dramatic practice and then ribbed her for not filming it, she burst into what she said were tears of frustration because her cameras had missed such a great scene.

“I thought this person really is serious about this and I was so moved,” said Coach Sasaki in a video interview with The New York Times. The morning after the practice, he invited her to turn on the camera while he watered his collection of bonsai plants and answered questions about his coaching philosophy. That episode became a pivotal scene in the documentary.

Ms. Yamazaki, who films her subjects for hundreds of hours, captures vulnerable moments that reveal as much to her subjects as to audiences.

In one scene in “Koshien,” the wife of another high school baseball coach says she resented her husband’s career because it often took him away from their three children.

“Seeing the movie, it was my first time knowing these feelings,” said Tetsuya Mizutani, the coach, whose old-fashioned, hard-driving style is highlighted in the film.

Such discomfiting moments distinguish Ms. Yamazaki’s storytelling from most Japanese documentary filmmakers, said Asako Fujioka, former artistic director of the Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival. Filmmakers in Japan try to treat subjects “kindly, like a caring mother or friend,” whereas Ms. Yamazaki “is very bold in the way she creates drama.”

Seita Enomoto, the teacher who chastises a student in “The Making of a Japanese,” said that although some viewers have criticized him, he appreciated that the film also showed the child learning that “she should work hard, and how she changed and succeeded.” Ms. Yamazaki and Mr. Nyari hope next to make a documentary about new recruits at a large Japanese employer, where young staff start with training that can lead to lifelong work at the same company.

For now, they are raising their young son in Tokyo and have enrolled him in a Japanese nursery school. Although human pyramids have been banned by schools because of parental complaints, Ms. Yamazaki hopes her son will absorb some of the values that exercise taught her.

“It was a weird personal experience,” she said, “that I look back on fondly.”

Kiuko Notoya contributed reporting.

Motoko Rich is a reporter in Tokyo, leading coverage of Japan for The Times. More about Motoko Rich