Japan Coloring Book

COLORING BOOK OF

Japan

National Flag of Japan Japan’s flag is made up of a red sun disk centered over a field of white. The white background stands for peace and honesty. Red represents hardiness, bravery, strength, and valor. The red disk represents the rising sun and has been the state symbol of Japan for centuries.

Map of Japan Japan is an island nation off the eastern coast of Asia situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan. It covers roughly 378,000 square kilometers (146,000 square miles) and consists of more than 6,800 islands, though only 430 are inhabited. The major islands include Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa.

RUSSIA

CHINA

NORTH KOREA

JAPAN

SOUTH KOREA

National Bird: Green Pheasant The green pheasant is a medium-sized bird found only in Japan. It plays an important cultural role, appearing in many myths and folktales. According to one, the bird is a spirit that carries one’s soul to the other world. Flying green pheasants are a common motif in ancient Japanese art.

(female)

(male)

National Flower: Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemums come in 13 varieties, each of which features a different type of bloom. The chrysanthemum symbolizes dignity and a long life. It appears on Japan’s imperial seal and coat of arms, and the country holds a yearly chrysanthemum festival.

Men’s Traditional Clothing Japanese traditional male clothing begins with a kimono, a long wrapped-front garment with square sleeves. It is topped by a haori, a jacket, and hakama, pleated trousers that are worn over the kimono.

Women’s Traditional Clothing Japanese traditional female clothing begins with a kimono, a long wrapped-front garment with square sleeves. It is traditionally worn with a broad sash, called an obi, and zori, which are raised sandals made of lacquered wood.

Nagoya Castle The original castle was built around 1525 but was burnt down in World War II. Rebuilt in 1959, it houses exhibits associated with the history of Nagoya. Two golden tiger-headed dolphins called kinshachi adorn the roof; they are believed to have the power to control the rain and thus will protect the castle from fire.

Japanese Hand Fans Hand fans were historically used by members of Japan’s upper class as a way to signify social standing. Typically crafted from Japanese cypress and paper or fabric, the number of strips of wood on each fan indicated the rank and status of its owner.

Itsukushima Shrine

This sixth-century Shinto shrine is built on pier-like structures over the bay and has a prominent gate called a torii made of camphor wood, which appears to float at high tide. Visitors usually place coins on the gate and make a wish. The view of the gate from Mount Misen is regarded as among the most breathtaking sights in Japan.

Shamisen The shamisen is a three-stringed instrument common to traditional Japanese music. It has a long, narrow neck and a rectangular box-shaped body covered by a skin membrane. The three silk strings are plucked with a small tool or with the fingers.

Sushi

Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish made of rice, seafood, and vegetables. The short-grained rice is prepared with vinegar, sugar, and salt, and the seafood is typically raw. Fillings, toppings, condiments, and preparation vary widely, but an artful presentation is always key.

COLORING BOOK OF

Japan Shamisen

Nagoya Castle

Sushi

Itsukushima Shrine

Japanese Hand Fans

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