Top Story: 30. September 2008
Spiritual Japan
By Editor in Chief, Jaakko Saari
When I first came to Japan in 2001, I expected a lot of things. But the biggest thing that struck me wasn't the volcanic bath or a temple in Kyoto, or say, world's fastest train. The thing that moved me most, was the invisible spirit, atmosphere of people.
Now this is something that I hear frequently from foreigners. Like "Japanese are so friendly towards foreigners", or that "Japan is most comfortable place to live".
Those who have visited once, seem always return as time or their finance allows. Some, like myself for instance, move here to live permanently instead.
When I've asked people "why do you think Japan is comfortable place to live" I hear basically three groups of answers. The people in the first group usually mention the low crime rate in Japan and that despite the earthquakes, Japan is pretty safe place to live. The people in the second group concentrate to the friendliness and politeness of people. I wonder though, if you want to find friendly people, how about Italy, or say, California? People smile there too and are very polite, at least what I've heard, I've never been to California, you know.
I think it has to be something else. Because you know, there is third group of people. These are the people who's eyes turn dreamy when they speak about Japan. They say things like "I like the air of Japanese" or "I like the atmosphere of Japan". Some of these people concentrate to the Japanese food in their explanation, melancholy of a five a clock school melody, Japanese sense of nature, or things like say, onsen.
The words of the people in the third group make most sense to me. Because I really think there is something unique, something spiritual about this country. Something that is just invisible air, but is present, at all times. The way how people are so genuine here. This could be a friendly chat with that woman in the neighborhood who always takes her dog for a walk. Or a smile from a supermarket cashier.
This lightweight, cheerful air is also visible in Japanese architecture and especially interior design (or the lack of design altogether). Japanese rooms are so well in balance, and there is nothing unnecessary. The walls form a fragile balance with seams in tatami floor. A simple flower placed on a cupboard by the entrance. In alcove in family dining room lies perhaps a single decorative hand made ikebana artwork, or perhaps a seasonal good. Nothing too much. Rather too little than too much. A sense of honne no tatemae, Japanese humility is everywhere. There is no need to show off.
One month ago, I was reading an article written by American male. I forgot which magazine it was, but in the article, the author was astonished by the fact that Japanese police is actually there to help people, not to suspect everyone's activities. He wrote a story of his friend who drunk too much and fell asleep on a train platform. The police warned him that it is dangerous to sleep on the platform, and helped him away from such a dangerous place. I guess in America the episode would have ended differently.
Although the modern Japanese society has it's problems we shouldn't forget the wonderful harmony which still exists, in the old tradition, and warmth of people. I only wish this natural harmony could be preserved to the future genereations.
For those who want to explore the Buddhism in Japan, I recommend warmly Zenkoji temple in Nagano city. It is one of the most unique Buddhist temples in Japan, and it possible to meet very warm hearted and special people there.
