Winston: On Researching Japan

A sampling of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. 
Image located by Winston.

I am doing an independent project in Kildonan’s Edge program.  I am studying and researching the aspects of the unique Japanese culture such as food, architecture, folklore, religion, and customs.  The end goal is to gain knowledge about Japan and learn everything under the Red Sun.  I wish I began researching Japan at the beginning of the year.  I had begun another topic, and it was not very interesting, so halfway through the first quarter of school I switched my topic to Japanese culture.  I feel as though I lost precious time in my research.  I am motivated each time I learn something new to delve further into the topic.  When I investigate my topic, I skim through the information and when I find something interesting, I research that material for the day.  Another goal of mine is to learn to read and speak Japanese, which will take time but will be worth it in the end. There is much knowledge to gain in my research. 

A variety of yokai (Japanese spirits). 
Image located by Winston.

For example, I am currently researching Japanese Yokai, which concerns strong spirits.  Also I am doing brilliantly on my Edge project.  It is a vast topic and there are many subjects I can research.  I will never get tired of Japanese studies because there is so much information.  When I began this journey, I did not have any goals, but as I continue gaining information about places to go to like restaurants, tourists spots, and shrines, I am excited about the prospect of visiting Japan.  The goal I have not accomplished is learning the Japanese language.  If I want to learn the language I will have to study.  If I learn some of the language in my IP, I will be satisfied.  As of today I understand much of the Japanese culture.