The Japan Society
Education Teach about Japan
Tanabata Festival (July)

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Tanabata Festival (July)

Tanabata is a summer festival based on an old story which tells of the annual reunion of two lovers in the Milky Way.

Introducing Manga to the Art Classroom

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Introducing Manga to the Art Classroom

Manga (comics or graphic novels) are a Japanese form of visual storytelling. These lessons give students an introduction to the history and cultural significance of Manga in Japan and as an art form.

Manga: Lesson 1 - Manga Style

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Manga: Lesson 1 - Manga Style

In the first lesson, use the teachers' notes to provide students with key information about Manga. Students will then compare Japanese Manga style with the Western comic book style.

Manga: Lesson 2 - Japanese Manga Artists

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Manga: Lesson 2 - Japanese Manga Artists

In the second lesson, students learn about diversity within Manga by watching the videos of Japanese artists talking about their work.

Video: How to Make an Origami Kabuto – Samurai Helmet

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Video: How to Make an Origami Kabuto – Samurai Helmet

On Children’s Day in Japan (May 5), many school children will make origami kabuto helmets. Follow this video to make a mini version.

Video: How to Make a Teru Teru Bozu – Sunshine Charm Doll

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Video: How to Make a Teru Teru Bozu – Sunshine Charm Doll

Follow this video to make your own teru teru bozu dolls. They are thought to work as a charm to stop the rain and bring sunshine.

Video: How to Make a Chouchin – Lantern

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Video: How to Make a Chouchin – Lantern

Follow this video to make a paper lantern. Traditionally people light chouchin lanterns on the first day of Obon festival to invite the spirits of ancestors back to their family home.

Video: How to Make an Origami Uchiwa – Paper Fan

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Video: How to Make an Origami Uchiwa – Paper Fan

In the summer in Japan, you will also see many people carrying fans called uchiwa. Follow this video to make a mini origami version.

Calligraphy Set

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Calligraphy Set

Class sets of regular calligraphy brushes and fude pen (pre-inked brush pens) are available. Schools are limited to one class set of brushes each.