- It is a Japanese tradition to play "hanestuki" on New Year's to expel bad luck. The game is similar to badminton and is played with a decorative racket and a "hane," or ball, made from bird feathers and a small, round nut called a soapberry nut. "Kodomo no Hi," or Children's Day, is traditionally celebrated on May 5th each year to honor younger generations. Traditionally, families fly carp-shaped streamers known as "koinobori." They also eat rice cakes and display warriors to represent bravery and strength.
- In Japan, a cherry blossom is symbolic of living and reminds the Japanese to appreciate their life. Warriors especially consider the blossoms as a reminder to live life to the fullest, even if it is short. Many Japanese Americans still celebrate a Cherry Blossom Festival where they sing songs and drink "sake," or rice wine, under the the trees to welcome the beginning of spring. "Hanami" is the tradition of viewing, writing poems about and enjoying the beautiful cherry blossom trees.
- "Origami" is a Japanese tradition where paper is folded to create unique paper sculptures. The "tsuru," or crane design, has become a symbol for peace. Origami began as a pastime for the elite class in China, beginning in the late 700s. Making paper airplanes became a favorite of Western children and is one of the most popular origami techniques.
- Shinto is a religion that was brought to the United States by Japanese immigrants. Shinto is an ancient religion that worships nature, fertility and heros. Those who follow Shinto believe in the "kami," which can mean gods or forces of nature. Shinto is known as a tolerant religion that respects and accepts many other religions as well.
- Buddhism is a religion that the Japanese brought with them to the United States. The religion is a system of beliefs based on four life principles known as the the four noble truths, and "karma," or the belief that good actions lead to happiness while bad actions lead to unhappiness, as played out in a cycle of rebirth.
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