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Understanding Japan :
The Land of The Rising Sun

Japan is a country with a rich and unique culture that emphasizes simplicity, harmony, and respect. This knowledge can help us to build bridges between cultures and to promote understanding and cooperation between Japan and the rest of the world.

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Understanding Japan Through
The Letters of Early Jesuit Missionaries

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The Jesuits lso played an important role in the development of Japan during the 16th and 17th centuries. The Jesuits first arrived in Japan in 1549, when Francis Xavier and his companions landed on the island of Kyushu. They were initially welcomed by the Japanese, who were curious about the foreigners and their religion. Although his knowledge of Japanese was basic, he was able to spread his message using the visual arts, thanks to a chest full of paintings and other religious items brought from Europe. His method involved setting up a painting of the Madonna and Child or of the Salvator Mundi on a pole in a public place where it could be seen by a crowd. Then he would stand in front of it and preach with the assistance of a Japanese interpreter inventing simple rhymes and tunes to help his audience remember the points he was making.

The Jesuits quickly established a mission in Japan, and they worked to spread Christianity throughout the country. One of the most notable Jesuits in Japan was Alessandro Valignano, who arrived in Japan in 1579. Valignano was a skilled diplomat, and he worked to establish good relations between the Jesuits and the ruling samurai class. He also founded schools and seminaries, and he encouraged the Jesuits to study Japanese culture and language in order to better understand and communicate with the Japanese people.

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The Jesuits in Japan, also played an important role as intermediaries between Japan and Europe. They helped to establish trade relations between the two regions, and they introduced new technologies and ideas to Japan. In particular, they played a key role in introducing European art and architecture to Japan, which had a significant impact on Japanese culture. However, the Jesuits' influence in Japan was not without controversy. As their numbers grew, they began to clash with other Christian groups in Japan, including the Franciscans and the Dominicans. They also faced opposition from the ruling authorities, who saw them as a potential threat to the established order.

In 1614, the Japanese government banned Christianity and expelled all foreign missionaries and converts from the country. Despite this setback, the Jesuits had a lasting impact on Japan, helping to introduce new ideas and technologies and playing  a key role in the cultural exchange between Japan and Europe. Their legacy can still be seen in Japan today, particularly in the many Christian churches and schools that they established.

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Japanese Family Values

What's important to Japanese culture is a mix of old and new beliefs, traditions, and customs. There is an art, reason, and historical purpose to explain how things are conducted in families and society, making Japanese culture unique. Some of the core Japanese values are interdependence, harmony, politeness, respect and formality.

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Japanese Culture and Religions

While Japan is considered one country, it's actually made up of nearly 7,000 islands. Japanese beliefs, customs, and culture are all fairly complex, but a basic understanding of what's important to Japanese people can help you better understand Japanese families. Japanese culture is often associated with certain values and characteristics that have been shaped by its history, geography, and social norms. Some of the key values that are commonly associated with Japanese culture include: respect, harmony, group orientation, politeness, perseverance, humility, and appreciation of beauty.

Shinto and Buddhism are the two main religions in Japan. Although Christianity exists there, Buddhism is the religion most Japanese people align with. Religion in Japan is viewed as more of a moral code than a doctrine that is preached. It's a way of life for most Japanese people that is not separate from their social and cultural values. In Japan there is a complete separation of religion and state, which makes religious practices private, family affairs. Shintoism involves the belief that every living thing found in nature contains gods, or kami. Buddhism is more concerned with the soul and the afterlife.

Japanese Family Structure

The traditional family unit in Japan consists of a mother, father, and their children. This type of family group is called Kazoku. Traditionally, three-generation households were the norm, with adult children living with their parents and their own husband and kids. The Japanese place such a high value on familial relations that they often call people by their surnames, or last names. The Japanese don't usually give their children middle names, and only use first names within their own household.

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Learning more about Japan

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Understanding Another Country’s Values

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Indian Family Values

In Indian culture, family values are often centered around the concept of "joint families," which refers to multiple generations living together in the same household. Family relationships are highly valued, and there is a strong emphasis on duty and obligation towards one's family members. However, there can also be significant differences in family values based on regional and religious differences within India.

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Chinese Family Values

In Chinese culture, family values are highly valued, with a strong emphasis on filial piety and respect for one's elders. However, Chinese culture places a great deal of importance on the concept of "face," which refers to the social status and reputation of oneself and one's family. As a result, there can be a greater emphasis on maintaining appearances and social harmony, even if it means suppressing individual desires or needs.

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