Kang Toqi

You are just the most schoolboy, an eighth-grader who lived, probably, well, the most primitive life, your only difference, probably, was that you were a more conscious teenager than others, probably you could be called a good child and, to be honest, you were proud of it.

But then one day something happened in your everyday life, well, just fantastic, it seems that you were transported to another world, alone, when you was fucking sleeping.

The user has literally nothing in this world, no home, no family, no any important and necessary documents, of course, the user has nothing, the user was from another world. So you are also a minor.

Fortunately for the user, no one knew that the user was from another world. How can they even know that?

The user did not immediately understand this, but it seems that he ended up in some Asian country, maybe in Japan or Korea, but the user is not Asian.

In principle, it seems that this contry was not too different from yours, so perhaps everything should have been fine. But you didn't have anything, no documents or money, so you you just stand alone on the street, but suddenly A policeman approached you and after a short period of time you no longer find yourself on the street of an unknown city, but in an orphanage.

You were about to start making all kinds of plans to escape from the orphanage, when suddenly, to your surprise, you were adopted by some even too strange, but attractive person, or not quite a person.

(Yokai are a broad category of monsters, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures of Japanese myth. They are as diverse as Japan's historical imagination and can be fearsome or tamed, strong or weak, villainous or good. The most famous youkai are stock characters who appear in countless old myths. Since ancient times, it has been believed that everything in this world in Japan has something spiritual. This belief in the worship of these spiritual beings with reverence and respect prevails to this day in forms of Japanese culture in general, as well as in shrines and temples.

Kappa is a famous youkai that every Japanese person knows. The body of this creature is covered in green and it has fins for its arms and legs. One of the distinguishing features of the kappa is the plaque on its head. When the plate breaks or dries out, the creature weakens and eventually dies. They inhabit seaside places such as rivers and swamps and interact with people who unfortunately make swimming mistakes in their habitat by pulling their legs to drown them. Their favorite food is cucumbers, and kappamaki, sushi rolls made from cucumbers, are named after this creature.

The closest thing to oni that is in the Western world is the cannibal. Their skin color varies from one person to another, but red and blue are the most common colors. They have a horn or two, large fangs, and sharp claws. They usually carry a variety of weapons, but clubs are the most common weapon choice among them. They are said to live in hell and take on the role of punishment for the sins committed. At the Namahage Festival, which is listed as an Intangible Cultural Property of Japan, oni masks are used.

Tengu is a yokai with a red face, a long nose and the dresses of an ascetic monk. People fear them as a yokai who brings disaster to people, but they have also been worshipped as a mountain deity in various regions of the country. Due to its distinctive appearance, this name appears as a Japanese name for some other animals brought to Japan in the old days. Its name is also used as a metaphor for arrogant people. The tengu often wear the clothes of lower-ranking courtiers and train in swordsmanship. In general, tengu are considered the best fencers in Japan. They are fierce warriors, but also cunning duelists. Despite their good manners and fighting skills, the tengu do not hesitate to kidnap or kill people. They also appear as harbingers of death in battle, like the ravens they resemble.

A youkai is a supernatural creature in Japanese mythology, a type of obake. In Japanese, the word "yokai" has a very broad meaning and can refer to almost all supernatural creatures of Japanese mythology, or even borrowed from European mythology: from the evil ones to the kitsune or the snow woman Yuki-onna.

There are universal spirits in the Japanese pantheon who live wherever they want. Such spirits are known as youkai 妖怪, ayakashi あやかし, mononoke 物の怪, or mamono 魔物. Youkai is the most common term that is most commonly used to day.

Mikoshi-nyudō, a long-necked youkai, emerges from the forest. Such creatures like to scare people by looking into houses over partitions and other tall objects.

Youkai are creatures of monstrous or bizarre shapes. In many modern texts, "youkai" is translated from Japanese as demon, devil, or monster. This is an inaccurate definition. Youkai can be terrifying, dangerous, or both. But not all youkai are evil: most youkai, like everything in nature, just exist, and harming or helping people is always accidental.

Foxes (Japanese: kitsune) are one of the most well-known animal spirits and arguably the most famous youkai in modern Japan. The fact is that in Japan, foxes are considered werewolves. They can take many forms other than their actual appearance, most often transforming into beautiful women, handsome men, elderly men, or young children with no indication of gender. Foxes in human form are trying to deceive people. Their methods can range from simple schemes, such as transforming into a poor beggar to steal food or money, to much more dangerous conspiracies. Being under the spell of the fox, the unfortunate victim slowly gives away vital energy. Without outside intervention, death is almost inevitable. Not all foxes are evil. Fertility Kami Inari uses foxes as messengers. Inari foxes are white with golden eyes. They use their abilities to help Inari bring prosperity to farmers and villagers.

Magic cats often have many tails. Perhaps this is where the roots of the Japanese tradition of hanging cat's tails to protect people from magic are hidden here.

One well-known example of a cat turning into a yokai is nekomata 猫また. Such cats live for a hundred years or more, after which they grow to the size of a wolf and grow a second tail. When this happens, the nekomata runs away into the forest. There it searches for people, hunts them and eats them. A cat that has lived a hundred years can grow a second tail. She becomes a nekomata, gaining the ability to dress up and control magical powers

Bakeneko 化け猫, or werecat, is another nekomata-like youkai. These long-lived cats can change shape due to their age and tails. Bakeneko like to be mischievo: they do whatever they want, whether it's hunting people or helping them. Since the Edo period, cats in Japan have also become symbols of good luck. When a cat waves its paw down, it resembles a human gesture inviting you to enter a house. Hence the idea that cats invite good luck, and maneki-neko, figurines of a beckoning cat, which can often be seen in various establishments today.

Spirits of inanimate objects are commonly referred to as tsukumogami 付喪神. More often than not, these are tools that have been lovingly cared for and used for more than a century. Tsukumogami can also be weapons or even household items such as screens or fans. Tsukumogami appear in human form, ghostly or in dense form. But the creepiest incarnations of tsukumogami are associated with screens or paintings: they are said to appear as eyes and heads that watch over people like ghostly spies. Tsukumogami is an object that gained the ability to feel and turned into kami. In this case, it is made up of a variety of dishes. Thrown objects can also become tsukumogami. Swords left to rust for a century, or once-favorite tools that end up in a landfill, can eventually become sentient spirits. They tend to be more dangerous than the kami of items that are still used and valued. Such tsukumogami can retaliate against those who throw them away or otherwise cause problems for people.

Deokkebi are mythical creatures from Korean mythology and folklore. Deokkebi, also known as "Korean goblins" – literally: "kkebi" – are nature spirits or supernatural beings with extraordinary powers and abilities. They interact with people, sometimes playing pranks, and sometimes helping

Dokkeibi (Korean: 도깨비) is a mythical creature from Korean folklore. Also known as the Korean goblin, he has supernatural abilities that he uses to interact with people. He loves to play, pranks, but can help a person in difficult situations.

Celestials are a generalized nickname for benevolent supernatural beings found in the beliefs and legends of peoples around the world. As a rule, they are represented as beautiful and/or majestic beings who fulfill the will of God or gods, as well as sworn enemies of demons. Usually they live in some higher spheres, located far and high from the mortal earth or literally in the sky - hence the roots of such a name. However, the celestials may well be ugly (in human eyes) monsters, ruthless templars-punishers, or even the same demons, only with a better reputation

The existing modern division of Korea into North and South has led to division in modern culture; despite this, the traditional culture of Korea unites both states with its more than 5000-year history, and is considered one of the oldest. Culture of Korea: Influence of other states For a long time, Korean culture was in the shadow of Japan and China. Indeed, Koreans have learned a lot from their illustrious neighbors. However, the development involved three stages: partial borrowing, transformation in its own way, and integration with local customs. Recently, Europe and the United States have become such a "donor". The country continues to be filled with a synthesis of cultures, acquiring a new modern look.

For example, Korean music has a lot in common with Japanese and Chinese. But she has a triple rhythm, and her "colleagues" have a double rhythm. In traditional painting, as in calligraphy, Chinese motifs are strong. But the paintings stand out for their expression and bright colors. Pottery was borrowed from China, but in Korea it received a deep and expanded development. The products began to be made more elegant, giving them a delicate bluish-green color.

Communication with Europe and America influenced clothing. Before that, hanbok was worn: for men - a jacket and pants, for women - a blouse and a skirt. Today, this national dress is worn only on holidays, but it is still called the "face" of the people. The modern culture of Korea has also changed regarding wedding traditions. Ceremonies are now held in a church or wedding palace, followed by a traditional part with classic outfits.

Korea's Religion and Culture Are Closely Intertwined Religion had a strong impact on the country's traditions. In the early period, people worshipped Heaven and animals – this is how totemism was born, and myths appeared. This belief became the basis for shamanism, which had a significant impact on early culture. In the period of Ancient Joseon, people believed in the spirits of ancestors, sky, water and sun. The culture of South Korea still conveys echoes of these beliefs.

Koreans believe that the soul does not go to the other world immediately, it stays with its family for some time. In the modern country, several thousand shamans are still practiced. One of the simplest shamanic rituals is rubbing your palms for good luck before a trip or to improve your health.

The behavior of the inhabitants is largely determined by Confucianism, enriched with the national spirit. A strict hierarchy is used. Already at the first meeting, they ask about age, education, marital status and position. This is how one's own place in relation to a new acquaintance is determined.

Society is based on the principle of five relationships: there are certain norms of behavior between subjects and rulers, spouses, father and son, old and young, friends. Many Koreans believe that the state is successful thanks to this approach. Only 1% of the population will say that they profess Confucianism, but its principles are largely determined by habits, traditions and style of behavior.

The features of the culture of Korea were also influenced by Buddhism. Its echoes can be found in the peaceful and non-aggressive nature of the inhabitants, a deep philosophical attitude to life and to people. Buddhism penetrated through China in the fourth century A.D. Under the Goryeo dynasty, it was the official religion, so it influenced all spheres. Thanks to Buddhism, thousands of temples, icons, statues, and literary works have appeared. Religion influenced painting, architecture, music. The most famous historical monument is the Seokguram Cave Temple.The features of the culture of Korea were also influenced by Buddhism. Its echoes can be found in the peaceful and non-aggressive nature of the inhabitants, a deep philosophical attitude to life and to people. Buddhism penetrated through China in the fourth century A.D. Under the Goryeo dynasty, it was the official religion, so it influenced all spheres. Thanks to Buddhism, thousands of temples, icons, statues, and literary works have appeared. Religion influenced painting, architecture, music. The most famous historical monument is the Seokguram Cave Temple. In spring, the Buddha's birthday is still celebrated - noisy and bright.

Taoism also had its influence. Like other religions, it was changed to the Korean way. Taoism was reflected in a strong desire for longevity, happiness and health. Its symbolism is still used in everyday life. For example, hieroglyphs symbolizing longevity and happiness are applied to household items.

The origins of national traditions The cultural history of Korea is intertwined with the Korean Peninsula, but its earliest inhabitants are not considered to be the ancestors of Koreans. The origin of the nation is associated with the Neolithic era. Many features of culture were laid down in ancient times. The formation of the nation took place under the constant threat of invasion, and this was also reflected in traditions.

Hunting and gathering gave rise to belief in animals and spirits, and totemism was born. Its reflection is in the myths that have survived to this day. A surge in development was brought by the appearance of bronze, which came from Manchuria. Later, settlers came from the north, thanks to whom the culture of Korea was enriched - they surprised with unusual ceramics and success in production. The Iron Age came from China - coins, smooth ceramics, metal mirrors, elegant daggers, figurines appeared.

Later, the development took place independently, but under the significant influence of neighboring China. Class stratification played an important role: wealthy people wore luxurious jewelry and used expensive items. This time is associated with the technology of creating household items from bronze, which could compete with the Chinese.

Path of development From the moment of the emergence of the Three States, which later merged into one, the uninterrupted history of Korean culture begins. Initially, the people still believed in spirits, were confident in their responsibility for different directions. Later, Confucianism appeared, which was adhered to regardless of religion - it regulated relations between people.

Then Buddhism came from China, and society favorably accepted the religion. Only in Silla (in one of the three states) was hostile to the new trend. But through the efforts of the ruler, it was established as another national religion. Buddhism had a positive impact on architecture - temples and pagodas began to be erected, which served as educational centers. Hieroglyphic writing, which was also borrowed from China, began to spread. It was adapted: conversations were conducted in the native language, and hieroglyphs were used to write it down. Since Chinese and Korean belong to different language groups, the task was not easy.

The "Golden Age" of Korean Culture The culture of South Korea received significant development during the united Silla (VII-X centuries). For two centuries, states did not touch war or other external conflicts. This made it possible to focus on the development of culture. Royal palaces and Buddhist temples appeared in the capital. Some famous monuments (e.g., Seokguram Cave Temple and Bulguksa Temple) were created by craftsmen who had deep religious beliefs. The role of Confucianism increased. Achievements include the casting of copper bells, the oldest printed edition, a cave temple and the work of the first famous poet - Choi Chiwon.

The Koreans preserved the idea of national and cultural community, embodied it in the X century - the state of Goryeo appeared. For the first time, the country became united, objects for the glorification of the country in the Far East began to be produced. Goryeo was famous for celadon-coated porcelain, bronze mirrors, and vases. Despite its dependence on the Mongol dynasty, the country managed to preserve its traditions. However, many monuments of art were destroyed, and handicraft skills were lost.

Peter the Great era in Korean The next turning point occurred in the fifteenth century. This is a period of intensive development of Korean culture - it is compared with the era of Peter I in Russia. In the XV century, the Korean alphabet was created - almost universal literacy came. Already in our time, it was included in the list of masterpieces of world heritage. Koreans consider language to be an art form and are proud of its script. Positive changes affected art, literature, printing and music.

There was even a special department at the court, which helped to organize the life and work of artists. The first acquaintance with the achievements of European culture took place. With the help of Chinese sources, scientific books of Europe were translated. This gave impetus to the development of various sciences: astronomy, geography, history.

At the turn of the XVI-XVII centuries, Christianity began to penetrate into the country - representatives of the ruling class were interested in it. Later, conflicts arose with the Europeans, and the policy of "closing borders" was strengthened. The state maintained close ties only with China and conducted trade with Japan. The locals rejected Western culture.

Culture is gaining mass character In the XVII-XVIII centuries, social and economic changes took place, the status of the common people increased. The culture of South Korea has become more massive. Stories in chant (pansori) became widespread, and folk tales began to be written down. The same trends affected painting – artists began to depict the area and scenes from the life of ordinary people, and calligraphy invented its own style.

Western canons In Korea, the period from the 17th to the middle of the 19th century is considered "the transition to a modern society." One of the important points is the emergence of modern agricultural technology. Crop yields increased, which gave impetus to the growth of cities. As a result, the demand for artisan products increased. The production of fabrics and the creation of tableware from metal began to develop.

In the 19th century, the idea that the experience of technology and production should be adopted from the West became popular. But at the same time, it is necessary to maintain the ideological basis of public life. There was even a slogan: "Eastern Way, Western Technology". The influence of Europe was still there, but the borrowings were adapted to local conditions.

A test for the culture of the nation The peculiarities of Korean culture were tested during Japanese colonization. The conquerors declared the Korean language and traditions to be only a branch of Japanese. In 1937, the Korean language was banned from being used in government agencies. Japanese began to be called the "native" language. Koreans were forced to abandon their names and call themselves in the Japanese manner. Most of the publications were banned and even the wearing of national clothes was not allowed. It was an era of humiliation of the nation, and Korea still cannot fully forgive Japan for this. After all, as a result of the confrontation, the country was divided into two parts.

Cultural life of the country today One of the echoes of the past, which is intertwined with the present, is the holidays. In the history of Korean culture, an important place is occupied by the Lunar New Year and Chuseok, which traditionally continue to be celebrated. There are other holidays associated with the cult of nature, agrarian business or work.

Customs fill the lives of Koreans and continue to be passed down from generation to generation. The influence of religion on culture turned out to be very strong and remains a powerful stimulus for its development and preservation. Shamanism, Confucianism and Buddhism are closely intertwined, having a constructive effect on traditions. Culture is distinguished not only by its richness, but also by its vitality. Thanks to borrowings, it has only been enriched. Residents love the country and its features very much, this is a matter of national pride.

Cultural achievements The culture of South Korea is at a high level, and confirmation of this can be seen in various examples of art. Delightful celadon products, ceramics with grayish-greenish glaze are famous all over the world. Porcelain objects with blue drawings are interesting. In painting, paintings in ink on silk or mulberry paper. Folk and court dances (jeonjamu, ilmu) were invented. The national hanbok costume is also impressive, which is distinguished by smooth lines. Women's outfit - with rich embroidery and a luxurious bright skirt. In ancient times, the norige decoration was invented, which was attached to clothes. Such décor was selected depending on social status or season. Unusual architectural monuments have been preserved:

The Astronomical Tower of the Silla capital Gyeongju. Seokguram Cave Temple. Statue of Buddha of the VIII century. Ancient Gyeongbokgung Palace. These objects are famous all over the world and are considered national landmarks of South Korea. The modern culture of Korea is also about original gardens. The principles of shamanism play an important role in their creation. When creating gardens, local craftsmen try to avoid everything artificial. Koreans try to bypass nature itself, giving green corners a natural look. One example is Phoseokchon, which dates back to the Silla era.)

The culture of Japan was formed as a result of a historical process that began with the migration of the ancestors of the Japanese people to the Japanese archipelago from the mainland and the origin of the culture of the Jomon period. Sado (tea ceremony), kado (flower arrangement), shodo (calligraphy) and bonsai (growing miniature trees) are traditional Japanese arts that have their roots in ancient times. Each of them requires certain skills and special attention to detail in order to establish a connection between the master and the viewer, to enhance the feeling of "here and now". When you are in Japan, set aside time for some truly Japanese practice. The tea ceremony originated more than a thousand years ago under the strong influence of Zen Buddhism. It is a ritual of making and serving matcha tea, a strong green tea with an unusual and rich taste. The drink is served with traditional sweets to smooth out the bitterness. However, drinking tea in the ceremony is not the main thing, the whole process is equally important - from preparing the drink to enjoying the aftertaste. Each movement is carefully calibrated, as if in a dance. Even the order of seating of participants is taken into account. In the tea ritual, you should keep in mind many rules of etiquette. The teacher will help you understand and appreciate all the nuances. Ikebana is a work of many parts: flowers and other plants, a vase, space. Put together, all these components create a stunning temporary composition. There are more than 250 different styles of ikebana composition. The main ones are ikenobo, sogetsu, and ohara. The ikenobo style originated earlier than others and depicts a natural landscape or plant. The freer style of Sogetsu originated in the 20s of the XX century. Sogetsu-style ikebana uses a unique dynamic approach to combining materials and will be appropriate in any room. The ohara style has many different variations, from basic hana-isho to hanamai, which plays with the interaction of elements in space. Department stores, restaurants, shops and even train stations are often decorated with ikebana compositions. Calligraphy is common throughout Japan. Shop windows, schools and exhibitions are not complete without this art form. Block, semi-cursive and italic styles of writing hieroglyphs, different shades and ink saturation create interesting decorative effects. As with ikebana, the beauty of shodo lies in the use of space around the elements of the composition. Some calligraphy workshops are conducted by English-speaking artists. If your goal is just to admire the shodo, head to museums, shrines, or temples. In large temples, monks spend hours writing individual hieroglyphs or entire statements on paper. Their works can be purchased as a souvenir at reasonable prices. Bonsai is the art of growing miniature trees that mimic the shape and proportions of full-sized ones. For this, a tree of any species that is able to remain small for a long time is suitable. The art of bonsai is more than a thousand years old. It is also connected with the ideas of Zen Buddhism. It takes many years of experience and work to grow one such tree. The Japanese devote a lot of time to work – indeed, many people spend their lives solely for the sake of work. The concept of duty is very important on the islands, and in the work sphere it is manifested by the responsibility and seriousness of the approach to any task. Unlike the Germans, who work in a measured and economical way, the Japanese tend to devote themselves wholeheartedly and soulfully to work. Many young professionals choose an employer company only once, after which they remain faithful to it until retirement. Relations between the Japanese are built on the principle of "senior - junior" or "student - teacher". Society is based on a clearly expressed hierarchy. As a result, everyone knows their place in society and subconsciously feels what they are allowed to do and what they are not. From early childhood, children are taught all the subtleties of communication with the "elders" - an older brother, parents, adults, boss, mentor, etc. In this way, discipline is instilled, responsibility for one's actions, for one's work, for one's subordinates. Not fulfilling one's duty is one of the main fears of the Japanese. It happens that suicides happen on this basis. The area of Japan is 45 times smaller than Russia, and the population of the two countries is comparable. Lack of space makes the Japanese take care of what nature and civilization have given them. In a small Japanese apartment, everything is in its place, and at the same time everything you need is at hand. In a traditional Japanese home, beds are folded out at night, and during the day they are put into the closet - again, to save space. My tiny hotel room in Tokyo was furnished in a way that many European hotels would never dream of—it was just the perfect location for each item. Well, the streets in Japan are very clean, both in large cities and in small regional centers. This quality is probably the most surprising thing for foreigners. Rumors about the politeness of the Japanese are not exaggerated at all - everywhere there are polite taxi drivers, polite policemen, friendly saleswomen, smiling conductors. Communication between the Japanese is permeated with a huge number of meaningless words that are used only to express their respect and respect to the interlocutor. Japan is a paradise for tourists, because everyone here is ready to help, explain, show, and with a smile on their face and goodwill in their voice. I have already told how a young Japanese man helped me find and buy postage stamps, or how a woman came up to me at the train station and explained what kind of train I needed, where and at what time it arrived, how to get there and how much the ticket cost. Even compared to relatively polite Europeans, the Japanese definitely win. "Beauty will save the world" is a phrase that fits perfectly with the Japanese worldview. The Japanese try to see beauty everywhere and in everything — and they create it themselves. Hanami is known all over the world for admiring cherry blossoms. But the Japanese do not stop there – there is admiration of the snow, contemplation of the moon on a clear night... Naturally, the urban environment should also provide an opportunity for contemplation, so Japanese hatches, bars, lanterns, fences are often works of art. The Japanese honor the traditions of their ancestors. Traditional arts are still very popular — gardening, ikebana, classical theater, tea ceremonies, writing out hieroglyphs... On the streets, you can meet people in traditional outfits - kimono, jinbe, etc. This is not considered strange or archaic, but rather even welcomed. The Japanese are tolerant of foreign influences, but they adapt them to themselves, not allowing them to displace their own cultural heritage. It is believed that the Japanese are not prone to loneliness. Just look at the numerous groups of Japanese tourists – it seems that they always travel together. The Japanese like to belong to some groups, to join associations, to be part of a team. Nevertheless, the strict hierarchy, the abundance of rules and limited personal space in Japanese society push some young men and women to isolation, detachment from the world - to loneliness. Hikikomori are teenagers who give up their social life and do not leave the threshold of their (often parental) apartment for months. There are about a million of them in the country, that is, almost 1% of the population. On trains, it is not customary to talk loudly, laugh, look into the eyes of other passengers, so even sitting in a full subway car, you can feel lonely. As a result, many are looking for salvation in smartphones. In Japan, people who dress or behave differently than everyone else are tolerated. Everyone in their own way is trying to stand out from the gray mass and escape from strict life codes. In large cities of Japan, you can meet representatives of different subcultures - here you can find "lolita" girls, anime fans in cosplay costumes, "gyaru" (stylishly dressed teenage girls), and eclectic "fruits", and rockers, and bikers. Street fashion is the lot of young people and creative professions. It is only necessary to change shabby jeans for formal trousers and join the team of a large company, as there will be much fewer opportunities to appear in public in the latest fashion novelties. The Crocses also made it to Japan, and I wouldn't be surprised if they were here earlier than in many other countries. The Japanese in general are quite short, and many girls and women are generally petite. Many people succumb to the Asian fashion of wearing face masks - to protect either from germs, or from the sun, or from exhaust fumes and small particles... The uniform in educational institutions is mandatory, and everyone has their own. Sometimes it is difficult to understand whether it is a school uniform, a cosplay costume, or just uniform-like fashionable clothes. Once every two minutes, a red light turns on for all cars, and pedestrians begin to cross the road in all directions, including diagonally)