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Vacation Preparation – Why Not?

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 10:47:20 +0000

When you can be arranging your journey you will find some issues you are able to fail to remember. In general they’re quite helpful issues and their absence can trigger some inconveniences. Depending on the duration of your trip and the place you’re going to the list of the essential items will differ.

In any event, if your going abroad you ought to have all the necessary documents.

1) your foreign passport with visa (if required)
2) your tickets (plane, train, bus – just any)
3) your hotel voucher (in case you stay in a hotel)
4) your insurance (if you have one)

If you are traveling with a travel agency, you’d much better have their telephone numbers together with other contacts both within your country and in a country of your destination.

So, when you plan to invest far from home only a couple of days you should usually your documents and a sufficient amount of cash. You will see hardly such things you cannot live with out for several days. Of course, if you do prefer not waste your funds, you need to not forget your toothbrush ad other item of the personal hygiene. Although in the occasion you stay in a important hotel these issues will not be a problem.

Some folks live their city with a powerful desire to forget about all that they’ve left in their motherland, but if you still wish to be in contact with your relatives and buddies you’d better to take your mobile. Obviously, you’ll be in a position to call from the reception in the hotel, but mobile is a lot much more convenient and less expensive.

In any foreign country if you do not speak its language, the term-book can be practically indispensable thing.

Regardless of for how lengthy your holiday will last – you’ll be safer should you take your medicines with you. In case you route lays far from the massive urban centers you just couldn’t manage to find what you require. Even if you’re going to New York or Paris, are you certain you would like to waste your time and cash looking for your salvation? It’s excellent if the foreign pharmacists know the name of your medicine – and if they do not?

Continuing about healthcare – it’s highly recommended to make all the vaccinations it is possible to need in the country you may well be going to. It’s specifically urgent should you go to the tropical countries of within the country where the epidemic could mar your plans. The list of the vaccinations you may require maybe quickly found within your travel agency, within the embassy of this country and even in Net.
Don’t forget also to take the clothes for you rest. Swimsuit, T-shirts and shorts on resort and a couple of the warm sweaters and blazers in mountains. Anyway, do not forget your running shoes – barely you’ll like to make lengthy walks on stiletto heel shoes or in uncomfortable shoes.

Should you anticipate long trip in bus or train, or lengthy flight – take some books, magazines or something else to entertain yourself. Some folks always take their talismans in their journeys. So, if you feel uncomfortable without your old toy – don’t forget to take it too, specifically if you plan a long stay abroad.
Anyway, when you have money or charge card you won’t be in trouble – now you are in a position to purchase virtually every thing, practically everywhere.

About the Author:
Where do you want to travel in the world? For an idea of where to go on your next vacation, visit famouswonders.com. While you are on the site, also take a look at tbilisi georgia.

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Vacation Preparation – Why Not?

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Amulet Market – The Paradise Of Charms

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 09:48:29 +0000

Bangkok, the major tourist magnet is the primary city and capital of Thailand. This cosmopolitan and dazzling city is a gem in Asia as it possesses a pure cultural heritage and act as a shopping paradise to tourists. This busy, yet glowing metropolis is rich with incredible temples, various types of hotels, astounding palaces, glamorous shopping malls, a prominent nightlife and miscellaneous markets. Such one is the traditional Amulet Market.
The Amulet Market which is situated along Thanon Maharat next to Wat Mahanat, provides the vendors the opportunity to sell amulets. Observing the average Thai people will make it evident that most of them are superstitious as they are either wearing or carrying one amulet at least. Even though there is a large number of an amulet market throughout Thailand, especially surrounding Buddhist temples, the leading one in Thailand is this.
This Amulet market opened nearly 20 years ago contains about 20 outlets. In Thailand, Buddhism is the primary religion. So in order to provide Buddhas followers a constant reminder of the Buddhas teachings and values, amulets were made as a first in temples. Amulets which are blessed by highly regarded Buddhist monks are still well sold. These are believed to bring true love, cold cash, good luck and relief from complicated personal issues.
A variety of materials are used for making amulets, such as gypsum, various metals, clay and sometimes Silver and Gold as well and they come in all shapes and sizes. When it comes to the prices, there isnt a standard; it depends on the buyer and sellers negotiation. After considering the amulets age and the reputation of the monk who made it, the certain negotiation can be made. Recently popular amulets in Thailand are Jatukam Ramatep amulets which represent two legendary princes.
The older the amulet, the higher the price, and the prices usually range from about 200 Baht to almost 100,000 baht. Customers from all walks of life and every corner of the world arrive in here. Some amulets created with the inclusion of pulverized substances: a monks hairs, dirt from a special temple or distinct herbs are also available.
The tourists to Phuket have the lodging option of a Phuket resort. The five star resort, Millennium Resort Patong Phuket, ideally located within a lush tropical landscape, facing the Patong Beach provides all the imaginable facilities expected from an extraordinary Patong beach resort.

About the Author:
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Juicy Couture Adornment Apparel For You

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 08:46:32 +0000

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Bar Mitzvah And Possible Gifts For The Occasion

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 08:44:10 +0000

Bar Mitzvah Gifts are important accessories to a revered tradition. Jewish religion follows an age old tradition of celebrating a childs coming of age. In case of a male child, as he reaches the age of thirteen he is supposed to be responsible for all his actions. The occasion is named Bar Mitzvah. This celebration also marks the onset of puberty in boys. The boy is called upon to read from the holy book of Torah and accept all his responsibilities as an adult. He is now to follow the laws of the Jews people.

Gifts for the occasion
The occasion is marked with celebratory meals. Bar Mitzvah Gifts are given to the adult boy. In case of boys the most common gifts are religious books that would help in keeping the young adults rooted to his culture. This is also the time when they receive their first Tallit from their parents. The other possible Bar Mitzvah Gifts that can be presented on the occasion are as follows-
1.Money- The occasion is marked with much pomp and galore. It is almost like celebrating the marriage of the boy. This stands to be very expensive. A guest to the ceremony can gift cash to the young child and to his family to meet the expenses of the occasion. Care should be taken that the cash is in multiples of eighteen as eighteen is a spiritual number in Jewish culture.
2.Certificates of cash- This is another option that can help the child meet his educational expenses in the future. Saving bonds are also given as Bar Mitzvah Gifts.
3.Religious gifts- Talismans and amulets having spiritual inscriptions are also a preferred kind of gift for the young boys. These protection amulets are believed to have mystical powers that can ward off evil spirits. The more orthodox families gift the Torah to the child.
4.Modern Bar Mitzvah Gifts – In modern times the gifts have become less religious based. Electronics goods and gadgets are more popular with the children. Computer games, watches are some of the electronic options.

There are Judaic shops where a variety of Jewish Gifts for Bar Mitzvah are available for the particular occasion. One can easily select from the list after consultation with the concerned parents. This would prevent any repetition of the gifts and make the presents purposeful for the family.

About the Author:
Article by Jenny, content writer at Inter-Dev SEO Company, on behalf of PersonalJudaica.com Judaica Store

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Exam Comptia 220-701 Practice Questions & Answers

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 07:45:37 +0000

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Why Humans Wear Jewery And How These Body Decorations May Help You Feel Beautiful

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 03:47:12 +0000

Jewery doesn’t have to be expensive in order to be valuable. Many women and men both, treasure their jewelry simply because of who gave it to them. This can be true in every part of the world, in every culture. Decorating one’s body with precious stones and sparkly things, is often done to complete the overall look of what you’ve assembled to wear for the day, or during special ceremonies.

Many women won’t leave the house unless they have all their jewels in place. Other women don’t often wear jewelry unless it’s to an important event, or other special occasion. The reasons for wearing jewelry can be as many as the years this form of money and body beautification has been around.

In the western world, it’s mainly the women who you will see dressing themselves up with all sorts of beautiful gems, but in other countries, the men are just as likely to adorn themselves with jewels. This may be to attract a mate or to ward off evil spirits. There are a number of reasons people wear these kinds of items on their bodies.

In the western culture, as well as others in the world, a diamond ring given to a lady by a man signifies deep and abiding love, with a proposal of marriage usually accompanying the ring. Friends, especially young ones, trade friendship rings with one another. There are even bracelets of different colors that are worn by young people, each color meaning something different.

Some jewelry is not meant to be pretty. There are amulets and talismans that are worn specifically to guard against certain bad things from happening, or to increase the chances of something good happening. It’s up to the individual to decide whether or not these things actually work, but many of them not only mean something sacred to the person wearing them, they can also be just as beautiful as decorative jewelry.

If it can be pierced, someone, somewhere will be having it done. It’s become quite popular among the young people these days to have parts of their faces pierced. Earrings don’t seem to be just for ears anymore. No matter what part of the body is decorated with jewels, it can be a great way to express yourself and your individuality.

Pins, broaches, hair-clips and buttons are all forms of pretty things that also serve a purpose. Pretty hair-clips and pins allow for women to style their hair around them. It’s kind of like having a headpiece or crown, only on a much smaller scale. It’s easy for women of any age to escape to their own little world of being a princess when they get to put pretty things in their hair.

Anything you wear on your body can be considered jewery. Precious metals and gems have been around forever, and it’s not secret that these things have been valued by many for centuries. Whether it’s to let people know you’re someone special, or to show someone how special they are to you, there are few who don’t like jewelry. Even if you don’t wear any, most people still find it pleasurable to look at.

About the Author:
Get the exclusive inside skinny on reasons why Links UK are the preferred choice for basketball players and apparel now in our guide to Links Of London Rings.

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Popular Wedding Traditions

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 02:48:35 +0000

Do you ever stop and wonder where our wedding traditions and rituals come from? Why does the groom carry the bride over the threshold of their new home together? Why do we throw rice? What are the meanings behind the colors in a wedding? Ancient traditions have become ingrained enough in our society that they are practically unseen. It’s time to unearth the reasons behind our wedding rituals in the United States.

It is said that the bridal shower originated in a village long ago. A poor miller’s daughter wanted to marry, but her father disapproved of the marriage and would not pay for her dowry. Friends of the daughter were moved by her cause and “showered” her with gifts, enough to make a fine dowry. The daughter was married soon after. The tradition is carried on today in parties thrown in the bride’s honor. Even though there is no need for a dowry anymore, guests still come bearing gifts. In this way, they give the couple the necessities to start a life together.

“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Have you heard this rhyme? Have you heeded its words? Many brides still carry or wear these objects as they walk down the aisle, though the reasons behind the items may not be known to them. These items are bestowed upon the bride as talismans, attaching good qualities to the bride as she enters into marriage. “Something old” represents wisdom: a quality young brides don’t yet own. It also symbolizes the bride’s family of origin, which she is now leaving, but taking along symbolically and in her heart. “Something new” stands for the new family she is entering into with this marriage. It originally symbolized an alliance between two households. “Something borrowed” is gifted upon the bride by a happily married woman, hoping for the happy energy to rub off on the woman. “Something blue” has its origins in ancient Rome. Virgins wore blue to denote love, fidelity, and constancy: fine qualities for any marriage. It is also associated with Christianity’s Virgin Mary.

He sweeps you off your feet when you fall in love, holding you close until he carries you across the threshold after you have been married. This tradition has its roots in many old superstitious traditions warding off evil spirits. They cannot enter with the bride if she does not step foot over the threshold herself. It came to symbolize modesty in an age when a certain hesitancy about consummating the marriage was fashionable. Now it symbolizes a new start for the young couple.

Queen Victoria changed wedding fashion when she chose to wear a white dress instead of the traditional royal silver gown at her wedding, and it became a trend that has continued to this day. Before then, women simply wore their best gowns as wedding dresses. White symbolizes virginity and purity, and also has its roots in traditions used to ward off evil.

The ancient custom of breaking sweet bread over the bride’s head to imbue her with fertility led us to our custom of eating sweet cake together at a wedding. Sharing the cake is another symbol of fertility, as well as longevity. It also symbolizes the union of bride and groom and touches upon the tradition of holy communion, symbolizing consuming the body of your beloved.

A kiss has commonly been used to seal the contract of marriage. It was also seen as a way for the bridal couple to join together in spirit, as the mouth was an entrance to the soul.

A wedding is a lovely time to carry on family and cultural traditions. Celebrate the rituals you love in your wedding. You’ll honor your new family’s creation in the years to come by creating rituals and traditions only you share.

About the Author:
Alex Lemone is a family and wedding writer. For more wedding decorating ideas and wedding ideas go to Wedding Ideas Etc. Note: You may reprint this article on your website, newsletter, or blog as long as the resource box remains in tact and hyperlinks stay active and dofollow.

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Talismans Of The Ancient World

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 22:45:59 +0000

Many people have their own talisman ideas. Its a gold ring engraved with weird symbols or its that ancient-looking pendant that my grandpa never took off his neck because it protects him or its a rare gold coin we found in the old chest in the attic. But what are talismans exactly? Do they really possess magical powers?

History Speaks

The oldest known talismans were just symbols scratched on small pieces of stones that were carried around close to the body. The symbols represented whatever powers the wearer wished to possess.

The Ankh for the ancient Egyptians symbolized eternal life. They engraved it on gold or copper and put them in tombstones, signifying the gift of eternal life for the dead.

In ancient Africa, people carried with them the severed foot of an animal known for its speed, believing that if they ever face danger, the speed of that animal will help them get away.

The pentagram is the most widely-used symbol for talismans. Dating as far back as the time of the Sumerians, it is used by all cultures and has endured over time.

Human history all throughout the world is rife with accounts of talismans being used to provide extraordinary powers, induce fertility, make the rains come, attract the opposite sex, win wars, amass wealth or whatever it is the wearer desires. What they have in common is that they all revolve around the symbols that represent the peoples beliefs. They represent the sun, the moon, the earth. They represent life, love, money, family. They represent anything and everything.

Look Inside Your Heart

Talismans are commonly made from metals like gold, silver, platinum, copper and bronze. Some are fashioned from stone and wood. That being said, you can probably take an antique pendant from the family heirloom and make it the symbol of your clans strength. If you believe in your heart that it will guide you in facing the challenges of your life, then by all intents and purposes, you have yourself a talisman pendant.

If however you prefer a talisman bearing an authentic ancient symbol you believe in, you need to find a piece that not only bears that symbol but also incorporates it with the true ancient inscriptions that go with it. You want a piece created not by any craftsman copying from a magazine, but by a true artist and believer who has a deep understanding of the symbols and what they stand for.

David Weitzman Ancient Talismans

David Weitzman is a devoted truth-seeker who just happens to be gifted at translating the truths that he has learned into intricate pieces of jewelry. He has gained extensive knowledge into the fields of Buddhism, Judaism, Kabbalah, eastern spirituality and ancient wisdom.

David has a single-minded approach towards the creation of his talismans . Each and every piece that he creates is the direct result of his intimate understanding of the ancient symbols that he studies. They are not just characters to him. They are strong representations of the things that keep our lives together. They are designed to empower and to inspire.

You can say that a talisman is only as strong as the belief of the person wearing it. It is a point we will not argue. In fact it is precisely what David Weitzman seeks to achieve with his ancient talismans, to strengthen ones belief in their own abilities, enough to achieve the deepest desires of their hearts. That is the kind of power we can all use, dont you agree?

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Japanese Festivals

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 20:44:11 +0000

Events within festivals

Festivals are often based around one or two main events, with food stalls, entertainment, and carnival games to keep people entertained. Some are based around temples or shrines, others hanabi (Fireworks), and still others around contests where the participants sport loin cloths (see: Hadaka Matsuri).

Local festivals (matsuri)

Stalls selling food or toys are a familiar sight at festivals throughout Japan

Gold and platinum plated mikoshi in Kichijji

Big Mikoshi “Yatai” Parade In Miki, Hyogo, Japan

Mikoshi Parade In Kamakura Japan 2007

This mikoshi enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu at the Tsh-g in Nikk. Participants carry the mikoshi during the spring and autumn matsuri of the shrine

The procession of a thousand warriors is the highlight of the autumn festival at Toshogu in Nikko

Matsuri (?) is the Japanese word for a festival or holiday. In Japan, festivals are usually sponsored by a local shrine or temple, though they can be secular.

There is no specific matsuri days for all of Japan; dates vary from area to area, and even within a specific area, but festival days do tend to cluster around traditional holidays such as Setsubun or Obon. Almost every locale has at least one matsuri in late summer/early autumn, usually related to the rice harvest.

Notable matsuri often feature processions which may include elaborate floats. Preparation for these processions is usually organized at the level of neighborhoods, or machi. Prior to these, the local kami may be ritually installed in mikoshi and paraded through the streets.

One can always find in the vicinity of a matsuri booths selling souvenirs and food such as takoyaki, and games, such as Goldfish scooping. Karaoke contests, sumo matches, and other forms of entertainment are often organized in conjunction with matsuri. If the festival is next to a lake, renting a boat is also an attraction.

Favorite elements of the most popular matsuri, such as the Nada Kenka Matsuri of Himeji or the Neputa Matsuri of Hirosaki, are often broadcast on television for the entire nation to enjoy.

Some examples of famous matsuri are the Jidai, Hadaka Matsuri, Aoi and Gion Matsuri held in Kyoto; Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka; and the Kanda Matsuri, Sann and Sanja Matsuri of Tokyo. Especially, Gion Matsuri, Tenjin Matsuri, and Kanda Matsuri are the three most famous matsuri in Japan.

Sapporo Snow Festival (Hokkaido)

Sapporo Yuki Matsuri, this is one of the largest festivals of the year for the city of Sapporo. This festival is held in February for one week. This festival began in 1950 when high school students built snow statues in Odori park, central Sapporo. This event is now very large and commercialized. This event attracts over two million people from around the world every year. About 1 dozen large sculptures are built for the festival along with around 100 smaller snow and ice sculptures. Several concerts and other events are held at this festival. At the Sapporo TV tower one can use their observation deck to view the beautiful sculptures at Odori park for 700 from 09:00-22:30 (starting at 08:00 on the weekend) (Japan-Guide.com).

Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival

Lake Shikotsu is the northernmost ice-free lake which is 363 meters deep. This festival features a moss-covered cave, which has evergreen draped on the inside and is covered in ice (Gianola, 2008). This festival is held from late January to mid February. This festival features ice sculptures, small and large. At night the sculptures are illuminated by different colored lights. There is a fireworks show during the festival as well. Admission is free. Amasake (hot sake) is available for purchase to enjoy (2008 Ministry of Land).

Lake Towada Snow Festival

This lake festival is held in the beginning of February. Held in the town of Yasumiya, this festival is on the south side of lake Towada (near the wooden statues). This festival is open all day, but at 5pm one can enjoy activities such as going through a snow maze, exploring a Japanese igloo, and eat foods from Aomori and Akita prefectures. There is a fireworks show and events held on an ice stage (MisawaJapan.com).bizda malumot yo’q hammasi yolog’on

Aomori Nebuta Festival

This festival is held annually and features colorful lantern floats called nebuta which are pulled through the streets of Central Aomori. This festival is held from about the 2nd-7th Augusts every year. This event attracts millions of visitors. During this festival, 20 large nebuta floats are paraded through the streets near Aormori JR rail station. These floats are constructed of wooden bases and metal frames. Japanese papers; washi, are painted onto the frames. These amazing floats are finished off with the historical figures or kabuki being painted on the paper. These floats can take up to a year to complete. There is a dance portion of this festival. There are haneto dancers and they wear special costumes for this dance. Everyone is welcome to purchase their own haneto costume that they may too join in on the fun (Mishima, Aomori Nebuta Festival).

Nango Summer Jazz Festival

Every year this wonderful event is held. Thousands of artists from all over Tohoku and even further regions come to Nango to perform. This is the largest open-air jazz concert held in Tohoku region. This festival began in 1989, in a small venue indoors. There was such a large response from the fans that is was expanded into a large annual festival. One must purchase tickets for this event (Bernard, 2007).

Cherry blossom festivals

Japan celebrates the entire season of the cherry blossoms. All over Japan festivals are held and include food and at night beautiful lanterns. An interesting fact concerning cherry blossoms:

According to a study, plants in urban areas have plants that bloom are blooming faster. From evidence at a cherry arboretum at Mt. Takao, early flowering of the cherry blossoms is happening due to the larger response to temperature variation (Primack, Higuchi, & Miller-Rushing, 2009).

Some locations of cherry blossom festivals include:

Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival in Okinawa. This festival takes place from late January mid February

Matsuyama Shiroyama Koen Cherry Blossom Festival in Matsuyama-city, Ehime. This festival takes place early April.

Matsue Jozan Koen Festival in Matsue-city, Shimane. This festival has a feature of illuminating the cherry blossom trees at night. This festival takes place late March-early April.

Tsuyama Kakuzan Koen Cherry Blossom Festival in Tsuyama-city, Okayama. Japanese tea ceremonies and music performers are held at these festivals. This festival is held early-mid April.

Takato Joshi Koen Cherry Blossom Festival in Takato-machi Ina-city, Nagano prefecture. The trees in this region have pink blossoms. This festival is held early April.

Takada Koen Cherry Blossom Festival in Joetsu-city, Niigata prefecture. This festival is held early-mid April.

Kitakami Tenshochi Cherry Blossom Festival in Kitakami-city, Iwate. This festival is held mid April-early May.

Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival held in Hirosaki Koen Hirosaki-city, Aomori prefecture. This festival is held late April-early May (Mishima, Cherry Blossom Festivals 2010).

Hadaka Matsuri

The origins of Hadaka Matsuri date back 500 years when worshippers competed to receive paper talismans called Go-o thrown by the priest. These paper talismans were tokens of the completion of New Year ascetic training by the priests. As those people receiving these paper talismans had good things happen to them, the number of people requesting them increased year by year. However, as paper was easily torn, the talismans were changed to the wooden ofuda that we know today.

Naoi-shinji, also known as “Hadaka Matsuri (naked festival)”, started in the year 767 AD, the Nara Period. This rite was founded on the fact that the governor of Owari Province (presently Aichi Pref.) visited the Owari Shosha Shrine ( Konomiya shrine ) to drive away evil spirits and calamities, because Emperor Shotoku ordered all the kokubun-ji* to offer invocations to dispel plagues.

It is said that the form of the festival, a struggle to touch the Naoinin or Shin-otoko (man of god), is reminiscent of the struggle in old times between the assemblage of lower-ranking shinto priests called shanin and contributors tried to catch and set up a man for naoinin (shin-otoko), an unlucky poor man, who was unwilling to take the role.

Nationwide festivals

Fixed days

Seijin Shiki: Coming of Age Day (second Monday of January)

Hinamatsuri: Doll Festival (March 3)

Hanami: Flower Viewing (late March to early April)

Tanabata: star festival (July 7)

Shichi-Go-San: festival day for children aged three, five and seven (November 15)

misoka: New Year’s Eve (December 31)

Multiple days

Setsubun: division of season (beginning of each of the four seasons)

Ennichi: temple fair (holy days related to Kami and/or Buddha)

Bunkasai

Japanese Cultural Festival

New Year (, Shgatsu)?)

Date: 13 of January (related celebrations take place throughout January)

Other Names: Oshgatsu (O is an honorific prefix)

Information: New Year observances are the most important and elaborate of Japan’s annual events. Before the New Year, homes are cleaned, debts are paid off, and osechi (food in lacquered trays for the New Year) is prepared or bought. Osechi foods are traditional foods which are chosen for their lucky colors, shapes, or lucky-sounding names in hopes of obtaining good luck in various areas of life during the new year. Homes are decorated and the holidays are celebrated by family gatherings, visits to temples or shrines, and formal calls on relatives and friends. The first day of the year (ganjitsu) is usually spent with members of the family.

People try to stay awake and eat toshikoshisoba, soba noodles to be eaten at midnight. People also visit Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. Traditionally three shrines or temples are visited. This is called sansha-mairi. In the Imperial Palace at dawn on the 1st of January, the emperor performs the rite of shihhai(worship of the four quarters), in which he does reverence in the direction of various shrines and imperial tombs and offers prayers for the well-being of the nation. On January 2 the public is allowed to enter the inner palace grounds; the only other day this is possible is the emperor’s birthday (December 23). On the 2nd and 3rd days acquaintances visit one another to extend greetings (nenshi) and sip otoso (a spiced rice wine). Some games played at New Year’s are karuta (a card game), hanetsuki (similar to badminton), tako age (kiteflying), and komamawashi (spinning tops). These games are played to bring more luck for the year. Exchanging New Year’s greeting cards (similar to Christmas Cards in Western countries) is another important Japanese custom. Also special allowances are given to children, which are called otoshidama. They also decorate their entrances with kagami mochi (two mochi rice balls placed one on top of the other, with a tangerine on top), and kadomatsu (pine tree decorations).

A later New Year’s celebration, Koshgatsu, literally means “Small New Year” and starts with the first full moon of the year (around January 15). The main events of Koshgatsu are rites and practices praying for a bountiful harvest.

Doll Festival (?)

Date: March 3

Other Names: Sangatsu Sekku (3rd month Festival), Momo Sekku (Peach Festival), Joshi no Sekku (Girls’ Festival)

Information: This is the day families pray for the happiness and prosperity of their girls and to help ensure that they grow up healthy and beautiful. The celebration takes place both inside the home and at the seashore. Both parts are meant to ward off evil spirits from girls. Young girls put on their best kimonos and visit their friends’ homes. Tiered platforms for hina ningy (hina dolls; a set of dolls representing the emperor, empress, attendants, and musicians in ancient court dress) are set up in the home, and the family celebrates with a special meal of hishimochi (diamond-shaped rice cakes) and shirozake (rice malt with sake).

Hanami (?)

Hanami party along Sakai River in Beppu, Oita

Date: April

Other Names: Hanami (flower viewing), Cherry Blossom Festival

Information: Various flower festivals are held at Shinto shrines during the month of April. Excursions and picnics for enjoying flowers, particularly cherry blossoms are also common. In some places flower viewing parties are held on traditionally fixed dates. This is one of the most popular events during spring. The subject of flower viewing has long held an important place in literature, dance and the fine arts. Ikebana (flower arrangement) is also a popular part of Japanese culture and is still practiced by many people today. Some main things people do during this event are: games, folk songs, folk dance, flower displays, rides, parades, concerts, kimono shows, booths with food and other things, beauty pageant, and religious ceremonies. Familys go out during weekends to see the cherry blossoms.

Children’s Day (, Kodomo-no-hi?)

Date: May 5

Other Names: Iris Festival (, Shbu no Sekku?), Tango Festival (, Tango no Sekku?)

Information: May is the month of the Iris Festival. The tall-stemmed Japanese iris is a symbolic flower. Its long, narrow leaves resemble the sharp blades off a sword, and for many centuries it has been the custom to place iris leaves in a boy’s bath to give him a martial spirit. Originally May 5 was a festival for boys corresponding to the Doll Festival, for girls, but in 1948 it was renamed Children’s Day, and made a national holiday. However, this might be a misnomer; the symbols of courage and strength mainly honor boys. It is customary on this day for families with male children to fly koinobori (carp streamers, a symbol of success) outside the house, display warrior dolls (musha ningy) inside, and eat chimaki (rice cakes wrapped in cogan grass or bamboo leaves) and kashiwamochi (rice cakes filled with bean paste and wrapped in oak leaves).

Tanabata (?)

Date: July 7

Other Names: The Star Festival

Information: It originated from a Chinese folk legend concerning two stars-the Weaver Star (Vega) and the Cowherd Star (Altair)-who were said to be lovers who could meet only once a year on the 7th night of the 7th month provided it didn’t rain and flood the Milky Way. It was named Tanabata after a weaving maiden from a Japanese legend, named Orihime who was believed to make clothes for the gods. People often write wishes and romantic aspirations on long, narrow strips of coloured paper and hang them on bamboo branches along with other small ornaments.

Bon Festival (, bon?)

Date: 1315 August

Other Names: urabon (?)

Information: A Buddhist observance honoring the spirits of ancestors. Usually a “spirit altar” (shrydana) is set up in front of the Butsudan (buddhist family altar) to welcome the ancestors’ souls. A priest is usually asked to come and read a sutra (tanagy). Among the traditional preparations for the ancestors’ return are the cleaning of grave sites and preparing a path from them to the house and the provision of straw horses or oxen for the ancestors’ transportation. The welcoming fire (mukaebi) built on the 13th and the send-off fire (okuribi) built on the 16th are intended to light the path.

“7-5-3″ Festival (, Shichigosan?)

Date: November 15

Information: Five-year-old boys and seven- or three-year-old girls are taken to the local shrine to pray for their safe and healthy future. This festival started because of the belief that children of certain ages were especially prone to bad luck and hence in need of divine protection. Children are usually dressed in traditional clothing for the occasion and after visiting the shrine many people buy chitose-ame (“thousand-year candy”) sold at the shrine.

Preparation for the New Year and Year-end fair

Date: late December

Other Names: Year-end (, toshi no se?),Year-end Fair (, Toshi no Ichi?)

Information: Preparations for seeing in the new year were originally undertaken to greet the toshigami, or deity of the incoming year. These began on the 13th of December, when the house was given a thorough cleaning; the date is usually nearer the end of the month now. The house is then decorated in the traditional fashion: A sacred rope of straw (shimenawa) with dangling white paper strips (shide) is hung over the front door to prevent evil spirits from entering and to show the presence of the toshigami. It is also customary to place kadomatsu, an arrangement of tree sprigs, beside the entrance way. A special altar, known as toshidana (“year shelf”), is piled high with kagamimochi (flat, round rice cakes), sake (rice wine), persimmons, and other foods in honor of the toshigami. A fair is traditionally held in late December at shrines, temples or in local neighborhoods. This is in preparation for the new year holidays. Decorations and sundry goods are sold at the fair. Originally these year-end fairs provided opportunities for farmers, fisherfolk and mountain dwellers to exchange goods and buy clothes and other necessities for the coming year.

misoka (, misoka?)

Date: December 31

Information: People do the general house cleaning (sji) to welcome coming year and not to keep having impure influences. Many people visit Buddhist temples to hear the temple bells rung 108 times at midnight (joya no kane). This is to announce the passing of the old year and the coming of the new. The reason they are rung 108 times is because of the Buddhist belief that human beings are plagued by 108 earthly desires or passions (bonn). With each ring one desire is dispelled. It is also a custom to eat toshikoshi-soba in the hope that one’s family fortunes will extend like the long noodles.

Dragon Tattoos: Why Are They So Popular?

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 17:45:17 +0000

Dragon tattoos are popular all over the world. Nowadays more than thirty percents of people that are going to make a tattoo chose a dragon tattoo design. Maybe the reason for such incredible popularity is that dragons are personages of many legends in nearly all cultures. Dragons can have different character, but they are certainly powerful creatures. The other reason may be that there are many styles of dragon tattoos that differ in design and in meaning. But there are two main types of dragon tattoos: Western dragon and Eastern dragon.
The meaning of Eastern dragon tattoos is always positive. In Chinese mythology dragon is a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. In the East dragon tattoos are extremely popular. They reveal the intelligence and are often made as talismans. In China people believe that dragon tattoo designs bring luck and happiness.
Western dragon is also an important character of many legends and myths. But usually it”s meaning far from positive. In European legends dragons were powerful but dangerous creatures. They destroyed villages with fire and were often associated with greed.
But in Britain there was different attitude to dragons. Dragons were sacred creatures in Celtic myths and they often symbolized Britons. So there is a special type of tattoos “” Welsh dragons tattoos that often reveal the proud for past and Celtic origin of the owner. Such tattoos have positive meaning and are widely spread in Britain and Europe.
But from all myths and legends we know that dragons are extremely powerful. Maybe they are the most popular mythical creatures in the world. Mentions of dragons can be found in al cultures and not depending on the connotation dragons are always highly respected and dragon tattoo designs “” wonderfully popular. Nor less important is the great variety of dragon tattoo designs. They are made in absolutely different styles and colors. You can choose traditional Chinese dragon tattoo or stylish tribal design; dragon tattoo can be made in classic black ink or in bright colors. Everybody can choose a dragon tattoo for himself or create an individual design. And this is certainly another reason for dragon tattoos popularity. But the meaning of such tattoo is always individual. Many people make dragon tattoo as a symbol of power and might. Others associate it with wisdom and think that a dragon tattoo emphasizes their intelligence. But on the whole a dragon tattoo is always a kind of statement. It reveals person”s character and will. In some cultures such tattoos also show respect for traditions of ancestors.
All dragon tattoo designs always have deep meaning, more than that they always look original and attractive. Dragon tattoos are usually quite big and are often made bright. They are used as back tattoos “” than the dragon is made on the size of the whole back. Such tattoo is quite extreme and extravagant of course, but it looks great and attracts attention. Such dragon tattoo design reveals a strong will and free character of its owner. All dragon tattoos look stylish and emphasize a good taste of their owners.

About the Author:
My name is Victoria and I work in Designs Tattoo centre for already three years, making people original tattoo designs. I know thousands of different tattoo designs and their meanings. I”ve already helped a great number of people to choose individual tattoo designs and I like this job.

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Dragon Tattoos: Why Are They So Popular?

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