Japan and Nature
This course elucidates the Japanese attitude towards nature based on the historical analysis. Furthermore, the course gives you some insight into how Japan will cope with the confused situation after the earthquake in 2011. The course will be run by the discussion style.
Towards MLO 2
Reflective Narrative
This course offered a deep look into the Japanese view of nature and the current situation regarding Japan's recovery from the earthquake. We examined historical views that developed into the current views, and why Japanese people interact the way they do with nature. A large part of the course was also dedicated to looking at shrines, temples, and other historical sites and examining how they harmonized with nature. Below, you can see photos of some of the sites we visited and brief descriptions.
This course gave me a greater understanding of the Japanese view towards nature, history, and current environmental practices. In the future, I'd like to keep learning more Japanese history and visit more shrines and temples.
This course gave me a greater understanding of the Japanese view towards nature, history, and current environmental practices. In the future, I'd like to keep learning more Japanese history and visit more shrines and temples.
Summary of Class Presentation
When we went on the field trip to Houkai-in Temple we observed that nature existed in and around the entire temple. The buildings blended with the many trees and plants throughout the grounds, and often the paths and temples were arranged such that you felt you were walking through tunnels of forest. The nature of the area was used to enhance the spirituality of the temple.
Once we climbed to the top of the mountain/hill, where the temple cemetery was located, we were treated a beautiful view of Okayama City and surrounding areas. We learned that cemeteries and temples were so often situated on hills because it is believed that the higher up you go, the more you are purified.
Once we climbed to the top of the mountain/hill, where the temple cemetery was located, we were treated a beautiful view of Okayama City and surrounding areas. We learned that cemeteries and temples were so often situated on hills because it is believed that the higher up you go, the more you are purified.