Japan music is known for being very diverse and distinct. Japanese music will generally range from classical and folk music to modern karaoke, j-pop, rock, and even hip hop. While styles such as rock and hip hop were borrowed from the rest, the Japanese have added their own distinct flavor to each style which makes them distinct from their Western counterparts.
While there are numerous types of traditional music in Japan, two of the most well known are gagaku and shomyo. The shomyo can be described as a type of Buddhist chanting, while gagaku can be described as an orchestral form of music. It should be noted that these are also the oldest styles of Japanese music, and date back hundreds of years.
Gagaku is Japan music that was often performed for the Imperial court during the Heian period. The samurai were know for performing in a number of musical related tasks, and it is said that this music helped enhance their skills. Musical theater has also played an important role in the musical history of Japan. Perhaps one of the best examples of musical theater is Noh, which became quite popular during the 14th century.
An additional form of traditional music theater which was popular in Japan is bunraku, which was a type of puppet theater. Another popular Japanese musical instrument is the taiko. A taiko is a type of drum that comes in numerous sizes, and it can play numerous styles of music.
The taiko was often played during festivals, and the origin of this instrument is not well known. The taiko is also important in Japan music because it has been used for both Shinto and Buddhism. It should also be noted that the taiko was often used in battle. Japanese folk songs can also be broken down into religious songs, work songs, weddings, festivals, and funerals.
Japan Tip #1
If you are planning on traveling to the orient, one fact about japan that you should know is that you must have local currency (yen) on hand before you leave the airport. Taxi, buses and other transportation services do not accept debit or credit cards or any other currency except the yen. |
Japan Tip #2
Another fact about Japan to remember is that it is considered impolite and even rude to offer a monetary tip to a Japanese person. Some finer establishments may reqire a tip type fee, but it will be included in your bill. So remember don't tip your waiter or waitress or the bell boy, or even the taxi driver, instead save your money. |
Japan Tip #3
One of the most confusing facts about Japan is known as the consumption tax. The consumption tax is a feel that is applied to all purchases made in Japan and is currently at 5%. This means that whatever the price of the item you are buying, you need to add an additional 5% to the price. Be aware that some stores include this tax in the price of the item and some stores do not, so it is better to ask if you are in doubt. |
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