私たちは日本の価値観を知っています。

(Watashitachi wa Nihon no kachikan o shitteimasu)

おはようございます

(Ohayou gozaimasu)

We are part of a large Japanese group, but do we understand Japan and its values? It’s a fascinating and complex country, just like their writing system is complex.

About three years ago, I resumed studying the Japanese language. I had approached this language while I was studying, but for several reasons, I had abandoned it shortly after. Japanese culture and language have fascinated me for a long time. Like many others, I got into Japan through cartoons and later with modelling. How can I forget the enthusiasm for Goldrake (UFOロボグレンダイザー UFO Robo Gurendaizā) when Rai first broadcasted it? Then I bought Momoyama-era lead soldiers to assemble and paint: a series of 12 foot soldiers and a horseback commander. This gave birth to my first diorama and my curiosity about a Japanese era of renewal.

As always when I develop a new interest, I explore compulsively, but somewhat randomly.

I bought a book by Murasaki Shikibu and discovered the Genji Monogatari, then the tanka. From tanka, I moved on to haiku and Matsuo Bashō: an author considered one of the greatest exponents of Japanese poetry. It was love at first sight. A short but intense poetry capturing moments of life.

Since we know Japan mainly for sushi (Europeanised), anime, manga, technology, for the Shinkansen, and Shibuya Crossing, and perhaps for cherry blossoms, I believe that the most important Japanese values are not well-known to many. The essence, I would say, of their culture. An admirable condensation of values, particularly with the concept of ‘wa,’ in which I strongly identify. 

In my opinion, they can be briefly summarized as follows:

Respect (礼儀, Reigi): it is the foundation of Japanese culture and characterizes general behaviour through gestures of courtesy, formal language, and respect for elders, teachers, and authorities.

Harmony (和, Wa): it is important to live in harmony with others and with the environment.

Honor (名誉, Meiyo): this concept is deeply rooted. Maintaining one’s dignity, respecting reputation, both personal and familial, are crucial aspects for a Japanese.

Aesthetics (美, Bi): Beauty in Japan is associated with simplicity and elegance.

In addition to this, values such as modesty, hard work, impeccable manners, good education, gratitude, cleanliness and order, and the importance of the group over the individual are also emphasized.

This is an introductory article, as there would be much to say about each point individually.

I leave you with a haiku, taken from a book that I always keep on my bedside table:

友よ、火を灯せば

雪の玉見せよ

(Yū yo, hi o tomoseteba

yuki no tama miseyo

“Friend, light the fire

I will show you

a snowball.”