Online Class: Japanese Cultural Studies 101

This course will explore this history as well as discuss Japanese traditions, language, religions, food, etiquette and manners, careers and education, arts, holidays and leisure, architecture, government and the legal system.
Self-Paced, Online Class
Library Subscription
 
  • 12
    Lessons
  • 24
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 10
    Hours
    average time
  • 1.0
    CEUs
 
 

Course Description

Delving into the Depths of Japan: A Journey through Time and Culture

Nestled to the east of China, Japan emerges as an enchanting archipelago, separated from the Asian mainland by a mere 120 miles of oceanic expanse. With a rich tapestry of history spanning over 30,000 years, Japan offers a mesmerizing blend of seclusion and global interaction. This dichotomy has birthed a culture that seamlessly fuses international influences while preserving its authentic Japanese essence.

Dive deep into this course as we journey through Japan's evocative history, tracing the ebb and flow of its interactions with the wider world. We will illuminate the vibrant traditions that have shaped the Japanese way of life, from the intricacies of its language to the spiritual depths of its religions. Feast your senses on the culinary wonders of Japanese cuisine, and understand the nuanced etiquettes that underpin social interactions.

Discover the Japanese commitment to excellence in careers and education, and marvel at the arts that have resonated through time — each art form narrating tales of seasons, emotions, and landscapes. Revel in the joyous celebrations of holidays and indulge in leisure activities that reflect a harmonious blend of the past and present. Stand in awe of the architectural marvels, from ancient temples to contemporary skyscrapers, each telling a story of Japan's journey through time.

At the heart of our exploration lies the Japanese ethos: a deep-rooted reverence for consideration, thoughtfulness, and order. These values make Japan one of the safest and most serene destinations globally. While immersing oneself completely might be challenging given the uniqueness of the culture, the beauty of the Japanese way of life invites appreciation at every turn.

Embark on this transformative journey with us, as we unravel the multifaceted layers of Japanese culture, offering insights that transcend the mere tourist gaze, plunging into the very soul of this ancient yet modern land.

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Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.5 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(884 votes)

  • Lesson 1: Introduction

    Japan is a strand of islands, or archipelago, that lies to the east of the coast of China.

  • Lesson 2: Traditions

    Many Japanese traditions that you see today date far back into Japan's rich history.

  • Lesson 3: Language

    The Japanese did not have a written language at all until about the 5th century, when the Chinese alphabet came to Japan by way of Korea.

  • Lesson 4: Religion

    The two major religions in Japan are Shinto and Buddhism, but Confucianism also plays a role.

  • Lesson 5: Food

    The Japanese diet is based on fish, rice and vegetables.

  • Lesson 6: Etiquette and Manners Part I

    As a very densely populated country, Japanese spend a lot of time in very close proximity to other people. As a result, they tend to value their personal space.

  • Lesson 7: Etiquette and Manners Part II: Behavior Inside a Japanese House

    Japanese real estate is extremely expensive and homes place a great value on multi-purpose spaces.

  • Lesson 8: Career and Education

    More than 80% of men and about 50% of women in Japan work more than 40 hours per week.

  • Lesson 9: The Arts

    Painting is the most popular art form in Japan, and its history is actually connected with calligraphy.

  • Lesson 10: Special Events, Holidays, and Leisure

    Many years ago, most young people married someone their parents chose for them, but in modern Japan, very few people have arranged marriages.

  • Lesson 11: Architecture

    Due to space constraints, rooms in Japanese houses often have to serve a double-purpose, so lightweight, movable furniture (like a futon) makes it easier to transition from living room to bedroom.

  • Lesson 12: Society

    Although Japanese government bears a strong American influence, there are some major differences between the US and Japan.
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Summarize and identify Japanese traditions, language, religion, and food.
  • Summarize etiquette and manners in Japan.
  • Describe career and education in Japan.
  • Recognize the arts in Japan.
  • Identify special events, holidays, and leisure in Japan.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Japanese Cultural Studies 101
Course Number: 8900284
Lessons Rating: 4.5 / 5 Stars (884 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is online and available in all 50 states including: California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas.
Last Updated: August 2023
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 1.0 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Nancy Fillip
Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

  • "I liked it and this is an initial way to learn about Japanese culture. Every lesson could be a course itself." -- Sharon S.
  • "The course offers great insight into Japanese culture, traditions, religion, food, art, history, and is great for travelers, educators and people seeking introductory cultural enlightenment." -- Andrew E.
  • "Learning about the Japanese culture has truly opened up my eyes about Japan." -- Taylor C.
  • "The written information was very helpful to me it was very interesting and enjoyable, and easy to get the right information without having to read a whole book to get the right answers." -- Eileen E.
  • "All the written material was relevant to my interest, and much of it - not all - was new to me." -- Peter H.

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