Glossary
Anime (アニメ)
Japanese animation, a major art form and global phenomenon known for its vivid colors, detailed characters, and immersive storytelling.
Example:
Many students discover Japanese culture through popular anime series like 'Attack on Titan' or 'My Hero Academia'.
Demon (鬼/おに)
A mythical creature or ogre in Japanese folklore, often depicted as fearsome beings with horns, central to rituals like Setsubun.
Example:
During Setsubun, someone might wear an oni mask to represent the evil spirits being driven away by the bean-throwing.
Fashion (ファッション)
The distinctive styles of dress, especially those popular in Japan, known for self-expression, innovation, and diverse subcultures.
Example:
Japanese fashion is globally recognized for its creativity, from the avant-garde designs of famous designers to the unique street styles of Harajuku.
Golden Week
A series of national holidays in late April and early May, resulting in one of Japan's busiest travel periods and widespread business closures.
Example:
Many Japanese families plan domestic or international trips during Golden Week due to the extended period of public holidays.
Gyaru
A Japanese fashion subculture known for its tanned skin, blonde or light-colored hair, and a focus on glamorous accessories and makeup.
Example:
The gyaru style often features bold makeup and trendy accessories, creating a distinctive look.
Harajuku
A district in Tokyo famous for its unique, colorful, and eclectic street fashion, blending vintage and modern styles.
Example:
Walking through Harajuku, you might see people dressed in bold layers and vibrant prints, showcasing their personal style.
Hina Dolls
Ornamental dolls, typically dressed in traditional Heian period attire, displayed during Hina Matsuri to represent the Emperor, Empress, and their court.
Example:
The intricate Hina dolls are carefully arranged on tiered platforms, passed down through generations as cherished family heirlooms.
Hina Matsuri (雛祭り/ひなまつり)
Also known as Girls' Day, this holiday is celebrated on March 3rd to pray for the health and happiness of daughters, featuring displays of ornamental dolls.
Example:
Families celebrate Hina Matsuri by displaying elaborate sets of dolls and enjoying special foods like chirashi sushi.
Lolita
A Japanese fashion subculture inspired by Victorian-era clothing, characterized by elaborate dresses, petticoats, and a doll-like aesthetic.
Example:
For a special tea party, she chose a beautiful Lolita dress adorned with lace and ribbons.
Mamemaki (豆まき)
The bean-throwing ritual performed during Setsubun, where roasted soybeans are thrown to symbolically cleanse the home of evil and invite good luck.
Example:
Children eagerly participate in mamemaki, shouting 'Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi' as they toss beans.
Manga (漫画/まんが)
Japanese comics or graphic novels, often published in magazine-style formats, that are a significant art form with widespread international appeal.
Example:
Before an anime adaptation is released, fans often read the original manga to follow the story.
Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi (鬼は外, 福は内)
A traditional chant meaning 'Demons out, happiness in,' recited during the Setsubun bean-throwing ritual to expel misfortune and welcome good fortune.
Example:
As the beans fly, the phrase 'Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi' echoes through homes, symbolizing the expulsion of misfortune.
Otaku
A passionate fan, typically of anime, manga, or video games, who often engages deeply with their interests through conventions and events.
Example:
The otaku community is known for its dedication, with many fans traveling internationally to attend major conventions.
Setsubun (節分/せつぶん)
A traditional Japanese festival celebrated on February 3rd, marking the beginning of spring and involving rituals to drive away evil spirits.
Example:
During Setsubun, families participate in a bean-throwing ritual to ensure good fortune for the coming year.