It is a kadomatsu. It's used to invite the gods into the house.
200
What is the difference between bonsai and banzai?
Bonsai is a plant, but banzai is a word you say when you celebrate. It's similar to "hurray!"
200
What do Japanese people eat on Christmas day?
We eat....
200
What is the biggest holiday in Japan?
It’s new years day.
200
Can Japanese be Shintoist and a Buddhist?
Yes they can. Shinto allows many gods.
200
How many active nuclear power plants does Japan have now?
2
300
What do you believe in? (religion)
I believe in....
300
How do you celebrate Christmas?
We go to.... we eat....
300
What kind of materials are used to make a kimono?
Usually silk and cotton.
Sometimes linen for summer and wool for winter.
Modern kimonos use polyester.
300
Are you a Shintoist?
In a certain sense, all Japanese are Shintoists.
300
Who is the prime minister of Japan?
It's Shinzo Abe.
400
What kind of trees are used for bonsai?
Many kinds, but pine trees are very popular.
400
Why do people go to Christian schools even though they aren’t Christians?
It’s because Christian schools are well regarded.
400
How do you celebrate new years?
We go to temples or shrines. We play games and visit relatives.
400
Do you worship your ancestors?
That is part of Shinto, but it’s more of respect towards our ancestors and nature.
400
Why should Japan stop the nuclear power plants?
it's dangerous to health
they are weak against earth quakes and tsunami
the power plants are old
we don't have the technology to treat the nuclear waste
500
What is the difference between Buddhism and Shinto?
Shinto: Many gods, no bible, Shrine, Kan-nushi, Amaterasu-Omikami
Buddhism: Buddha, Bible (kyoten), Temble, Monk, God
500
How many Christians are there in Japan?
There are about one million Christians. That is about 1% of the population.
500
Name 3 things in an osechi and their meanings.
Kamaboko (蒲鉾), rising sun, festival
Kazunoko (数の子): gifted with numerous children
Konbu (昆布): joy.
Kuro-mame (黒豆):health
Tai (鯛): celebration
500
What are some cultural influences of Zen in Japan?
Tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and meditation (quiet reflection)
500
Why should Japan continue using nuclear power plants?
Japan does not have natural resources for thermal power plants
Thermal power plants are 8-9 times more expensive and it is environmentally bad
We do not have the technology to fully stop the nuclear waste that we have now