Japan's history unfolds through diverse epochs, from the ancient Jomon culture to the Yayoi and Kofun periods. The Heian period's cultural flourishing gave way to the feudal era under the Kamakura shogunate, leading to unification by figures like Oda Nobunaga. The Edo period brought peace, and the Meiji Restoration marked a shift to modernization in 1868. Japan's imperial ambitions in the early 20th century led to World War II. Postwar reconstruction propelled Japan into economic prominence. The Heisei era (1989–2019) saw technological advances, and Emperor Naruhito ushered in the Reiwa era in 2019. Today, Japan seamlessly integrates tradition and progress on the global stage.
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5 Fun Facts about Japan
5 Fun Facts about Japan
- Land of the Rising Sun
Japan is often referred to as the "Land of the Rising Sun," a translation of its name in Japanese, Nihon or Nippon. This name comes from the country's location to the east of China, where the sun rises.
Japan is often referred to as the "Land of the Rising Sun," a translation of its name in Japanese, Nihon or Nippon. This name comes from the country's location to the east of China, where the sun rises.
2. Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)
2. Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)
Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, known as sakura. The blooming of cherry blossoms is a significant event in Japan, marking the arrival of spring. Hanami, the tradition of enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms, often involves picnics under the blooming trees.
3. Shinto and Buddhism
3. Shinto and Buddhism
Shinto and Buddhism are the two major religions in Japan, and they coexist harmoniously. Shinto is deeply rooted in the indigenous spirituality of Japan, emphasizing the worship of kami (spirits), while Buddhism was introduced to Japan from China and Korea.
4. Technology and Innovation
4. Technology and Innovation
Japan is renowned for its technological advancements and innovation. The country has been a global leader in the automotive and electronics industries. Companies like Toyota, Honda, Sony, and Panasonic have made significant contributions to these sectors. Amidst this, the iconic Shinkansen, or Bullet Train, became emblematic of Japan's progress, revolutionizing high-speed rail travel and symbolizing its blend of tradition and innovation on the global stage.
5. Mount Fuji
5. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan's highest peak, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). It is an iconic symbol of the country and is considered a sacred mountain in Japanese culture. Mount Fuji is a popular destination for climbers and tourists alike, offering breathtaking views and picturesque landscapes.
How To Make Tonkatsu
How To Make Tonkatsu
Ingredients:
For the Broth:
2–3 pounds pork bones (such as pork neck bones, trotters, or knuckles)
1 onion, halved
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 piece of ginger, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
8 cups water
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
Salt, to taste
For the sous vide Chashu Pork Belly:
2 lb pork belly – rolled and tied
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup sake
1/2 cup mirin – sweet Japanese wine
1/4 cup sugar
2-3 cloves garlic – left whole
2 green onions – coarsely chopped
Other Toppings:
Ramen noodles
Fresh spinach, blanched
Menma (fermented bamboo shoots)
Nori (seaweed), sliced
Green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds
Ajitsuke Tamago (soft-boiled marinated eggs)
Tonkatsu Ramen is a popular Japanese dish known for its rich pork broth and flavorful toppings. Here's a basic recipe for Tonkatsu Ramen.
Instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Broth:
In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Saute until fragrant.
Add pork bones to the pot and brown them.
Pour in water and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Add soy sauce, mirin, and salt to taste. Simmer for at least 4-6 hours, occasionally skimming off any impurities.
- Prepare the Chashu pork belly:
Combine the soy, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic and green onions in a ziploc bag large enough to hold the pork belly. Stick a straw in the bag and seal the ziploc bag up against it (so the straw is the only opening). Suck as much of the air out as you can and seal.
Sous vide the pork for 10-11 hours at 170F.
Remove pork from the ziploc bag. Discard the bag and marinade.
Let the chashu pork belly cool completely.
Slice across the chashu pork (so you get bacon like slices) – into 8-12 slices about 1/8 to 3/16 inches thick. Reserve. You won’t need all the pork for 4 servings.
- Prepare Toppings:
Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
Blanch fresh spinach in hot water and slice.
Slice nori into thin strips.
Prepare Ajitsuke Tamago (soft-boiled marinated eggs).
- Assemble the Ramen:
Strain the pork broth, discarding solids. Adjust seasoning if needed.
In serving bowls, place cooked ramen noodles.
Pour hot broth over the noodles.
Top with Tonkatsu, spinach, menma, nori, green onions, sesame seeds, and Ajitsuke Tamago.
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