Long before Athens or Rome was even founded, Crete dominated the Mediterranean Sea. The island was home to the Minoans whose art, writing system, and architectural skills are still admirable to these very days.
Continue reading Crete: The Cradle of Minoan CultureTag Archives: Culture
Subak: The Path of Water in Bali
For the Balinese, irrigation is not simply providing water for the plants. Instead, there is a sophisticated system known as subak that incorporates many water-related components. Through this path of water, a deep connection between the spiritual, the natural and the human world is created.
Continue reading Subak: The Path of Water in BaliSim Cheong: A Magical Performance
Fusing media art and traditional Korean performing arts, the troupe and production team of “Sim Cheong” has created a magical performance that highlights filial piety – a virtue that’s highly valued in Korean society.
Continue reading Sim Cheong: A Magical PerformanceRyokan and the Japanese Hospitality
To put it simply, a ryokan is a Japanese-style inn. But unlike its Western-style counterpart, the ryokan is an embodiment of the Japanese lifestyle which was treasured and passed down over generations. From the traditional and often historical architecture to a skillful level of attention and service, spending the night at a ryokan is definitely an ideal way to experience the “true Japan”.
Continue reading Ryokan and the Japanese HospitalityGoshuinchō: A Unique Souvenir from Japan
Meaning a “book of the seal”, a goshuinchō is used to collect stamps from shrines and temples throughout Japan. While the religious meaning of the goshuinchō still exists, many people view it as a very Japanese way to document their journey.
Continue reading Goshuinchō: A Unique Souvenir from JapanAdmire The Transient Beauty of Sakura
Pure and elegant, sakura (or cherry blossoms) has long been an unseparated part of Japanese culture. The flowers symbolize the arrival of spring, marking the time for renewals after a winter sleep. Yet this beauty is short-lived. After their peaks around two weeks, the blossoms start to wither, leaving a carpet of pink blush…
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