The Japanese Culture

As early as 6000 to 7000 years ago, the Japanese islands may have been inhabited just as discoveries in recent years indicate. However, the earliest major culture dates from about the third millennium B.C. Known as the Jomon culture, it is classified as Mesolithic, meaning that the people did not yet practice agriculture, but made pottery. The Jomon people lived in sunken-pit dwellings and survived by hunting and gathering shellfish, roots, and nuts. Their pottery, which was not made on a potter’s wheel, shows great artistic skill and richness of design.

Jomon Vessel via Wikipedia

In Japanese music. literature, and art are found classic influences of ancient China. The Japanese culture derives from the early contacts of the islands with the early civilizations of China and Korea. In the cultural life of Japan, religion has played an important role, especially Buddhism. During the 19th century, which began in earnest Western influences, and often intermingle with the traditions and stylized forms of Japanese culture.

Geisha in Kimono via Wikipedia

In the number of its important libraries Tokyo outranks all other Japanese cities. Of the nearly 100 leading libraries in the nation, more than 40 are located in the capital city. Among the most important are the National Diet Library, an international book exchange and information center of Japan. Important university libraries are located throughout the country.

National Diet Library via Wikipedia

With the exception of several modern galleries in the large cities, the museums of Japan represent treasure halls and are usually found in temples and shrines. The Myohoin Temple in Kyoto is the most famous of these. Tokyo contains important museums and art galleries.

National Museum of Western Art via Wikipedia

Tokyo National Museum via Wikipedia

The largest art museum in Japan is the Tokyo National Museum. Major specialized collections in Tokyo are contained in the National Museum of Western art, the Japanese Folkcraft Art Museum, the Meiji Shrine Treasure Museum, and the Calligraphy Museum. In conclusion important museum collections, temples and libraries are found in virtually every major city of Japan.