Japan: Travel notes

The article covers some of the most prominent cultural landmarks of central Japan. Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and their suburbs and nearest region were the foundation and all the fundamental principles of Japanese architecture and art, in particular the art of calligraphy, ceramics, red lacquer painting, and the famous Japanese weaponry. Nara became Japan’s first permanent capital in 710 (by the order of Empress Gemmei), a 72-year period in Japanese history known as the “Nara Age.” It is noted that Buddhism, and later Zen Buddhism, first came to this territory from China. For twelve centuries, Buddhist art was considered a “Japanese classic.” On the territory of the Nara temple complex, one can observe the organic coexistence of ancient Shintoism and Buddhism adapted to the consciousness of the Japanese. In the central region, a revered archaeological site is the underground structure of Isi-Butai, which dates to the ancient Asuka period (538–645). Despite many years of research of this attraction, the so-called “stone stage”, the water pipe laid in the dungeon, other details remain mysterious (about their origin) and are of keen interest to archaeologists. The paper also provides information about the Horyuji architectural ensemble (607–623). The focus is on the personality and educational role of Prince Shyotoku, who succeeded Empress Hashihito no Anahobe, the prince’s mother. The Chugudi temple (Ikaruga’s old palace) was dedicated by Shōtoku to his mother’s memory. Now there are only a few stones from this temple. Information is provided about the sculptural masterpiece of the Asuka era—the statue (national treasure) Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu, which is one of the most poetic sculptures in Japanese plastic. Special attention is paid to the embroidered sacred banner Tenjukoku Shūchō Mandala depicting the “Land of Heavenly Longevity.” The fabric is considered the oldest embroidery in Japan.