1. Write a Haiku
Nowadays, the most famous type of Japanese poetry in the West is the haiku, a poetic form that developed in the 1600s. However, we can trace the haiku’s roots to early Japanese poetry, specifically waka poetry by Heian‐era courtiers.
For this activity, try writing your own haiku. However, before you begin, you must know some of a haiku’s crucial elements.
Syllable structure: Haikus consist of 3 lines with a syllable pattern 5–7‑5, totaling 17 syllables. Modern haiku, especially English ones, can have a more flexible format. However, composing within the traditional framework can be a fun challenge.
Kigo: This is a seasonal word or phrase included to anchor the poem in nature, the passing of time, or a season. Try to include at least 1 reference to natural phenomena or a particular time of year.
Kireji: A “cutting word” (kireji) is sometimes used to create a pause or provide emphasis, giving the haiku a subtle shift in tone or perspective.
A haiku is usually about a brief experience and the poet’s accompanying feeling or reflection. Think of haiku as verbal snapshots of time. Because of their brevity, haiku are open to interpretation. For example, here’s a famous haiku about Kyoto by master poet Matsuo Basho:
Even in Kyoto,
hearing the cuckoo’s cry,
I long for Kyoto.
Although we cannot be sure, many people believe that Basho was trying to convey nostalgia for a special place we know we must leave; we anticipate our future memories and the longing and desire to relive our time there.
Now you try. The experience you write about does not have to be profound. Also, do not get too hung up on counting syllables. Remember something you observed, describe it briefly, and then state your feelings. Here are several more haiku examples:
I write, and I listen
to the purring of the cat
by the window sill.
The rain is falling—
and I forgot my umbrella,
but I do have a hat.
The squirrel in my yard
keeps raiding the bird feeder—
it’s not a bird, you know.
2. Life Expectancy in Japan
Follett quotes a Japanese historian, “According to books on the history of epidemic disease and medical treatment, aristocratic women, on average, died at age 27 or 28, while men died at age 32 or 33. In addition to the infant mortality rate being extremely high, the rate of women dying at childbirth was also high.… Looking at the specific causes of death at the time, tuberculosis (possibly including pneumonia cases) accounted for 54 percent, beriberi for 20 percent, and diseases of the skin (including smallpox) for 10 percent.”
Today, Japanese people enjoy one of the longest average life expectancies in the world: 81.6 years. What combination of factors do you think accounts for their longevity?
First, read the material on Our World in Data that explains the various reasons for the worldwide trend toward longer lifespans. Then, read these articles specific to Japan: Okinawa Blue Zone, Longevity Secrets, and 7 Reasons. A simple web search will provide you with even more information.
Finally, write a 250‐word report on the causes of Japanese longevity in the 21st century. Include specific evidence to back up each of your claims. For example, if you say that Japanese life expectancy has increased along with per capita gross domestic product, you must include the data to support that assertion.
Be sure to address the following in your report:
Finally, include a works cited section at the end of your report.
3. Analyze Traditional Japanese Architecture
One of the joys of visiting Kyoto is experiencing its exquisite architecture and landscaped gardens, which reflect the city’s cultural heritage and historical significance.
Make a Google Slides presentation that describes each of the following types of Japanese structures, using 1 notable example of each kind in Kyoto.
Your presentation should note essential architectural features, materials, and room or garden layouts. Also, discuss how religious beliefs influence site selection and design and how architectural elements reflect cultural values. For example, what Shinto belief is reflected in placing ritual handwashing basins near shrine entrances?
A picture is worth a thousand words. Include high‐quality images and possibly videos to illustrate your points.
To conclude, answer this question: Why is Kyoto’s architecture a vital way to understand Japanese culture and history?