5 Traditional Japanese Art Styles, And Where To Find Them

The beauty of traditional Japanese culture and why we are in love with their art styles.

Japan has experienced several changes through the opening and closing of centuries. The adopted ideas from countries like Indian and China have led to the transformation of concepts during the isolationist period. The practice allowed the creation of cultures that the present culture is familiar with.

Japanese culture allows visitors to enjoy the aspects that visitors love exploring. Traditional art has fascinated the world for centuries as it is elegant yet uncomplicated. With heavy influences from religions like Shintoism and Buddhism, here are a few of the art styles we owe origin to Japan.

  1. Shodo- Japanese Calligraphy-
The 5th century Japan adopted the Chinese kanji as a writing system to decorate their crafts. The distinctive style of calligraphy was named Shodo and uses some katakana and hiragana. Although it may look a tad bit sloppy, sometimes the traditional art follows strict techniques. The main styles of writing are kaisho, Kyosho and sosho. The elementary school students are taught kaisho, and some adults pursue it as a hobby.
  1. Ikebana- The Art Of Flower Arrangement
Shintoists and Buddhists have used evergreen plants for worship through centuries that have led to ikebana's evolution. There are thousands of schools in Japan now teaching art to the new generation. Some of the techniques are followed in sculptures; others mimic flowers natural condition and try to slow the process of weltering. Many arrangements are used for seasonal flowers to elaborate uncomplicated compositions. The artists' skills have a powerful impact on standing bouquet.
  1. Taiko- Playing The Japanese Drum
Archaeological records suggest that the Japanese culture used some form of percussion instrument since the Neolithic period. Taking inspiration from Korea, China and India, Japan created taiko drums during the 6th century that accompanies religious rituals and theatrical performances.
  1. Green Tea Ceremony- 
Buddhist monks introduced green tea in the 8th century for a cure. During the Muromachi period, it became fashionable for noble classes to keep the beverage in Zen rituals. The use of beautiful ceramic crockery and tea set has become an integral part of the culture.
  1. Bonsai- Nursery Visiting-
Potting of miniature trees came from China, but Bonsai is a brainchild of Japan. Practitioners used different methods to keep the trees small and trimmed to look like giant trees planted in a contained space.