Bijutsu (美術):** Art

 

1. Today's Japanese words

 Here's some Japanese vocabulary about art with romaji:

* **Bijutsu (美術):** Art

* **E (絵):** Painting

* **Shodo (書道):** Calligraphy

* **Kenchiku (建築):** Architecture

* **Togyo (陶芸):** Ceramics

* **Bonsai (盆栽):** Miniature tree cultivation

* **Ukiyo-e (浮世絵):** Woodblock print

* **Nihonga (日本画):** Japanese painting

* **Manga (漫画):** Comics

* **Anime (アニメ):** Animation

* **Chirashi (ちらし):** Woodblock print announcement

* **Kakemono (掛け物):** Hanging scroll

* **Byobu (屏風):** Folding screen

* **Fusuma (襖):** Sliding door

* **Makie (蒔絵):** Lacquerware

2. Today's topic

Japanese art encompasses a vast array of artistic traditions, ranging from ancient pottery to contemporary anime. Here are some of the most well-known forms:

* **Painting:** Japanese painting is known for its use of bold colors, natural imagery, and emphasis on simplicity. A famous example is the woodblock print "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" by Katsushika Hokusai.

* **Calligraphy:** Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, is a highly refined art form that emphasizes the beauty of written characters. 

* **Architecture:** Japanese architecture is characterized by its use of wood, paper screens, and a connection to nature. Pagodas and tea houses are some of the most iconic examples.

* **Ceramics:** Japanese ceramics are renowned for their delicate beauty and functionality. Tea bowls and sake cups are some of the most common types. 

* **Bonsai:** The art of cultivating miniature trees is a uniquely Japanese tradition that requires patience and skill.

* **Manga and Anime:** These popular forms of comic books and animation have become a global phenomenon, originating in Japan.

* **Ukiyo-e (Woodblock Prints):** Ukiyo-e prints were a prominent art form during the Edo period (1603-1868). These vibrant prints depicted everyday life, landscapes, and kabuki theater scenes. Katsushika Hokusai's "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" is a prime example of this art form.

* **Nihonga (Japanese Painting):** Nihonga refers to traditional Japanese painting styles that use natural pigments on paper or silk. Subjects often depict landscapes, historical scenes, or nature.  

* **Shodo (Japanese Calligraphy):** Shodo is a revered art form that emphasizes the aesthetic qualities of kanji (Chinese characters) and kana (Japanese phonetic script). Calligraphy is practiced using ink brushes on rice paper and is admired for its expressiveness and discipline.

3- Today’s news

Rare photo shows loyal dog Hachiko in his last years

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15192856

Hachiko was born in 1923. He used to wait for his master’s return at JR Shibuya Station in Tokyo every day for nearly 10 years after his death.

Spring exhibition to reveal rarely shown cultural treasures

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15199028