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It’s booming this month, an online game, simple and addictive called agar.io. The objective of the game is simple, you choose a name for your ball, and try to survive in a space full of other players, trying to eat smaller balls and grow, while escaping from the other giant balls that try to swallow you.

I don’t know the meaning of Agar.io but at least in Japanese “Oagaryo” is something like go ahead, it even makes a bit of sense. xD But they probably named it that because of the domain “.io” and who knows agar comes from grab.

Also read:
Go – Traditional Japanese Games
Undokai – Gincana in Japanese Schools
Games like Agar.io on your Mobile – IOS, Android, and Windows Phone

A brief description and features of the game agar.io:

• Eat particles to grow;
• Balls of the same size do not kill each other;
• There is a green spike ball that if you are bigger and touch it, it explodes and splits into several. If you are smaller you can hide inside it;
• You use “Space” to split and escape from enemies;
• Use W to throw away some of your mass to shrink and move faster;
• The game has 2 game modes, Color Team and Free-for-all;
• The game has a ranking of the 10 largest balls in the game room;

If you want to know how the game works, watch this GamePlayer of agar.io made by nerd stuff below:

Customize your Ball – Name list

One very interesting thing is that if you rename your ball with any of the names below, it will be decorated with some design or different art, instead of a random color. If you were interested in knowing all the customizations of agar.io, see the list below of names that are decorated. Most are countries of the world or crazy things.

• Poland
• USA
• China
• Russia
• Canada
• Australia
• Spain
• Prodota
• Confederate
• Brazil
• Germany
• Ukraine
• France
• Sweden
• Hitler
• North Korea
• South Korea
• Japan
• United Kingdom
• Earth
• Greece
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Estonia
• Finland
• Norway
• CIA
• Maldives
• Austria
• Nigeria
• Reddit
• Yaranaika
• 9gag
• Indiana
• 4chan
• Italy
• USSR
• Pewdiepie
• Bulgaria
• tumblr
• 2ch.hk
• Hong Kong
• Portugal
• Jamaica
• German Empire
• Mexico
• Sanik
• Switzerland
• Croatia
• Chile
• Indonesia
• Bangladesh
• Thailand
• Iran
• Iraq
• Peru
• Moon
• Botswana
• Bosnia
• Netherlands
• European Union
• Taiwan
• Pakistan
• Hungary
• Satanist
• Qing Dynasty
• Nazi
• Matriarchy
• Patriarchy
• Feminism
• Ireland
• Texas
• Facepunch
• Prodota
• Cambodia
• Steam
• Piccolo
• EA
• India
• KC
• Denmark
• Quebec
• Ayy lmao
• Sealand
• Bait
• Tsarist Russia
• Origin
• Vinesauce
• Stalin
• Belgium
• Luxembourg
• Stussy
• Prussia
• 8ch
• Argentina
• Scotland
• Sir
• Romania
• Belarus
• Wojak
• ISIS
• Doge
• Byzantium
• Imperial Japan
• French Kingdom
• Somalia
• Turkey
• Mars
• Pokerface

Japan is a country known for its superstitions, culture, and different beliefs, resulting in numerous legends and bizarre creatures. There are hundreds of them, some harmless, others terrifying. In this article, we will learn about some of the most bizarre creatures and legends of Japan.

Kamaitachi – The Sickle Weasel

Kamaitachi [窮奇] is a monster from Japanese folklore that means sickle (kama) and weasel (itachi). The monster is said to take the form of a weasel with sharp teeth like sickles that would cut its victims with extreme speed.

Ancient Japanese say that Kamaitachi is responsible for the cuts that people suffer when hit by strong gusts of cold wind! So, the blow of the Kamaitachi makes a small cut on the person, which initially does not hurt much, as the cut is small, but probably the cut will become infected!

Okiku – The Living Doll in Kimono

Okiku is a small doll dressed in a kimono. She belonged to a little girl named Okiku, who died of cold. Her spirit possessed the doll, and now, her hair grows mysteriously. The doll is now in the Mannenji temple. At first, her hair was short, but over time, the doll’s locks have grown, and today they reach the doll’s waist. No one knows how the doll’s hair continues to grow, but scientific research has concluded that it is the hair of a young child, perhaps Okiku’s.

Umiboozu – The Japanese Sea Monster

Umiboozu (海坊主) is a terrible sea monster that usually appears along the coast of Japan. Its legends are described in the Edo period. The main action of this monster is destruction. It always appears to devastate vessels, taking along with them, humans to the depths of the sea. It is also said that it can form a whirlpool along the coasts in the shape of a pot, pulling humans who are at its edge.

There are many descriptions of the Umiboozu legend. Some people say that it can take on various forms. But its original physical characteristic is monstrous, measuring up to 30 meters out of the water and having a very shiny bald head. This has led to Umiboozu earning the nickname “Bald Monster.” It is said that this monster has no mouth or eyes and its color is black as a moonless night. However, in some legends, Umiboozu is described with a huge mouth and glowing eyes like fire.

Imagine a shark. Now imagine a shark whose fins are like a cheese grater, except that instead of grated cheese, it grates your flesh. This is Isonade, which uses its teeth and fins to make fillet out of you, then drags you down to the bottom of the ocean.

Kushisake Onna – The Woman with the Cut Mouth

Her name (口裂け女) means “the woman with the cut mouth.” If you are walking down the street alone late at night, she will jump out from some corner or alley and stop in front of you. You will not be able to escape, as she will teleport and appear right in front of you. She wears a surgical mask and a tattered coat.

Kushisake will ask you: “Am I beautiful?” If you say no, she will cut off your head with a large pair of scissors. If you answer yes, she will remove the mask, revealing her mouth torn from ear to ear, and will ask “How about now?” If you respond no, you will be cut in half, and if you say yes, your mouth will be cut like hers.

Tomimo no Jigoku – The Cursed Poem

Tomimo’s Hell is a cursed poem, which says it kills those who read it aloud. If you are lucky you will not die, but bad things happen anyway. Tomimo’s Hell was written by Yomota Inuhiko, in his book called “The Heart is like a Rolling Stone,” and is included in Saizo Yaso’s 27th collection of poems from 1919. The poem tells the story of Tomimo, who dies and goes to hell.

Hitobashira – The Human Pillars

Hitobashira (人柱) means “human pillars.” In ancient Japan, the Japanese believed that sealing live people into buildings would make them stronger and more stable. Sealing people in pillars and walls was a common sacrifice to the gods, who, pleased, blessed the buildings to last longer. It is said that the human pillars are haunted by those who served as sacrifices.

Teke Teke – The Elbow Creature

Teke teke teke would be the sound the creature makes when it walks (with its elbow). She was a beautiful young woman who fell (or threw herself, there are various versions) onto the subway tracks. She was cut in half by a train, but her anger and resentment were so intense that her torso continues to seek revenge. Despite the lack of her legs, she can move very quickly, and if you are unlucky enough to be caught by her, Teke Teke will cut you in half with a sickle she carries.

Yuki-onna – The Snow Woman

Yuki-onna (雪女? snow woman) is a spirit or youkai (a type of demon from Japanese folklore) found in Japanese folklore. It is a very common figure in Japanese animation, manga, and literature.

According to folklore, Yuki-Onna sings to seduce men, causing them to get lost in snowstorms and die frozen. They often appear in the form of beautiful young women, and in many legends, they fall in love with men and approach them, marrying and starting families, even having children. However, the love story always ends with her disappearance on a day of heavy mist or storm, probably when the call of her world becomes stronger.

Aka Manto – The Red Cape

Aka Manto means Red Cape/Cloak. It basically refers to a tormented spirit that haunts bathrooms. He will appear when you use the bathroom that has no toilet paper. He will then ask you: “Do you want the red paper or the blue paper?” If you choose the red paper, you will be cut into pieces. If you opt for the blue paper, you will be strangled to death. According to other versions of the story, by choosing the red paper, you will be skinned alive, and if you prefer the blue, your blood will be drained from your body.

Gashadokuro – The Giant Skeleton

Gashadokuro (がしゃどくろ) is a youkai, a creature from Japanese mythology, this spirit is quite simple – it is a giant skeleton made of the bones of people who died of hunger. They roam around, grabbing you and biting your head, drinking your blood, and adding your skeleton to the pile.

The Haunted Inunaki Village

Inunaki Village is a mysterious village completely isolated from other villages, and even from the country itself. It is not known for sure if this village actually exists, but some people say it does. At the entrance of the village, there is a sign that says “The constitutive laws of Japan do not apply here.”

The residents of this village live in a very strange way: incest, cannibalism, and murder are common there. For some reason, you cannot use your cell phone or any other electronic device while in Inunaki Village. There are old shops and some public phones there, but you cannot call anyone. It is said that those who enter Inunaki Village cannot leave.

The Haunted Kyiotaki Tunnel

This tunnel was built in 1927. It is 444m long (4 is a cursed number in Japan, similar to the number 13 for most Western people). Kyiotaki is, according to legends, cursed by all the workers who died while building it, due to the terrible working conditions of the time, which forced them to work like slaves, and by all those who died in the tunnel, victims of accidents caused by the spirits of the workers.

It is said that ghosts can be seen in the tunnel at night, and that they can even possess your car and cause an accident. It is also said that there is a mirror in this tunnel, and that if you look into it and see a ghost, you will have a horrible death. The length of the tunnel can also vary, depending on the time and period you are measuring it (night or day).

Akaname – The Dirt Licker

Akaname can be translated as “dirt licker.” Akaname is a horrible type of bogeyman from Japan that literally licks dirty bathrooms, cleaning everything with its tongue aided by its poisonous saliva. It is believed that the monster may have originated as a way for parents to motivate their children to keep the bathroom clean.

Shirime – The Man with an Eye on His Butt

The description of this character is a bit crude. Shirime was the name given to an apparition of a man with an eye in place of his anus. Eye on the butt, to be more precise.

There is almost no information about its appearances. In fact, there is only one recorded story about Shirime, but the idea of this being was quite assimilated by the artist and poet Yosa Buson who included several supernatural creatures in the paintings he made.

The story of Shirime simply states that a lonely samurai was walking down a road at night when someone called him. He turned to see a mysterious man undressing and pointing to his backside.

Out of nowhere, a large shining eye began to open from the indicated area. The samurai was so horrified that he ran away screaming, and Shirime was never seen again.

In Japan, the return to school in the second semester is marked by tragedies: according to the Japanese government, September 1st is historically the day of the year when the highest number of young people under 18 commit suicide. From 1972 to 2013, more than 18,000 children committed suicide.

On average annually, there were 92 on August 31, 131 on September 1, and another 94 on September 2. Last year, Japan recorded suicide as the leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 19 for the first time. The return to school in April also marks a peak in the number of child deaths.

Shocked by the statistics, a librarian from the city of Kamakura caused controversy by recently tweeting: “The second semester is almost here. If you are thinking about killing yourself, why do you hate school so much? Why not come here? We have comics and light novels. No one will fight with you if you spend the whole day here. Remember us as a refuge if you are thinking of choosing death over school.”

‘Heavy Armor’

In just 24 hours, Maho Kawai’s note was retweeted more than 60,000 times. The initiative was criticized, as it is practically a municipal employee encouraging children not to go to school. But for many, he may have helped save lives. “My school uniform felt as heavy as armor.

I couldn’t stand the school climate, my heart raced. I thought about killing myself because it would have been easier,” wrote the student Masa, whose real name cannot be published to protect his identity. He claims that if it weren’t for his understanding mother, who let him stay home “skipping school,” he would have committed suicide on September 1. Masa’s statement was given to a newspaper for children who decide not to go to school.

“We started this non-governmental organization 17 years ago because in 1997, we had three shocking incidents involving students just before the start of classes,” said the publication’s editor, Shikoh Ishi.

Two of the children mentioned by Ishi committed suicide on August 31. Around the same time, three other students set fire to the school they attended because they didn’t want to return to classes. “That’s when we realized how many desperate children there were, and we wanted to send the message that there is no choice between school or death,” said Ishi.

Support for Suicidal Individuals

For many Japanese children, the competitiveness of Japanese society is unbearable. The Japanese government has also launched a series of initiatives – including hotlines and other services – to support potential suicides of all ages.

Even so, last week, a 13-year-old boy committed suicide on the day of the opening ceremony of the second semester. Ishi himself came very close to committing suicide at that age. “I felt helpless because I hated all the rules, not just those of the school, but also those among the children.

For example, you need to carefully observe the power structure to avoid bullying,” he said. “Even so, if you decide not to join them, you risk becoming the next victim.”

For him, however, the bigger problem is the competitiveness of Japanese society. He himself started thinking about suicide when he couldn’t get into an elite school. “The worst of all is a competitive society, where you have to defeat your friends.” Ishi adds that, in Japanese, the term used for entrance exams includes the word “war.”

What saved him from death was that his parents found the suicide note and did not force him to go to school. “I want children to know that you can escape from school, and that things will get better.”

To learn more about suicide in Japan, we recommend reading our article on the truth about suicide in Japan.

Among the most intriguing and exciting dramas you can watch, Liar Game stands out for its unique approach. Based on the eponymous manga by Shinobu Kaitani, published in the magazine Young Jump, this series combines elements of psychological suspense, surprising twists, and strategy games where lies and manipulation are essential weapons.

In this article, we will explore the entire work of Liar Game, from its origins in the manga to adaptations for dramas and movies. Get ready to dive into the complex universe of one of the most captivating thrillers in Japanese culture.

The Story of Liar Game: A Journey of Deceptions

The plot of Liar Game begins with Kanzaki Nao, an extremely honest and naive young woman. One day, she receives 100 million yen along with a letter informing her that she has been chosen to participate in a game called “Liar Game.” The objective? Deceive other players and steal their 100 million. The loser accumulates a debt equivalent to the lost amount.

Desperate after being deceived by her first opponent, a former teacher named Kazuo Fujisawa, Nao seeks help and finds Akiyama Shinichi, a con artist recently released from prison. Together, they face the stages of the game, where brilliant strategies and moral dilemmas intertwine.

A Unique Psychological Thriller

The difference of “Liar Game” lies in how it explores the human mind. Participants are challenged in their ability to manipulate, deceive, and resist psychological pressure. The games presented in the series involve creative rules, such as voting, money transport, and puzzles with decks, all to test the limits of honesty and morality.

Kanzaki Nao, despite her initial naivety, tries to overcome the challenges honestly, helping other players. Her struggle to maintain ethics in such a corrosive environment is one of the greatest strengths of the series.

Manga: The Origin of Everything

The manga Liar Game started in 2005 and was completed in 2015, with 19 volumes and 201 chapters. Shinobu Kaitani created a complex narrative, where each character has a striking psychological depth.

Differences Between Manga and Drama

While the drama focuses on the dynamics of the games and suspense, the manga delves deeper into the psychology of the characters and the motivations of the game hosts. Additionally, some characters, such as Fukunaga Yuji, have significant differences between the media.

Kaitani’s inspiration for the series came from concepts like “dominant minority,” reflecting the power games and manipulation we see in the plot. For those who love reading, the manga is a must-read recommendation.

The Japanese Drama: A Timeless Success

Released in 2007 by Fuji TV, the drama Liar Game brought the story of the manga to life. Erika Toda masterfully plays Kanzaki Nao, capturing her innocence and determination. Akiyama Shinichi takes shape in the hands of Matsuda Shota, whose performance combines intelligence and charisma.

Structure of the Drama

The drama is divided into two seasons and two movies:

• Season 1 (2007): 11 episodes, with a two-hour final special.
• Season 2 (2009): 9 episodes, expanding the challenges of the game.
• Movies: Liar Game: Final Stage and Liar Game: Reborn.

Soundtrack and Acting

The soundtrack of the drama is a highlight in itself, perfectly complementing the atmosphere of tension and suspense. Additionally, characters like Fukunaga Yuji, played by Kosuke Suzuki, add humor and personality to the plot, being nicknamed “Kinoko” (mushroom) for his unique hairstyle.

International Adaptations

In addition to the Japanese drama, Liar Game received a Korean version in 2014, with 12 episodes. Although it has differences from the original work, this adaptation offers a new perspective on the game and its challenges.

Where to Watch Liar Game?

Unfortunately, due to being an older drama, it is difficult to find on streaming services and download sites. Previously, it was even available on Crunchyroll and Amazon Prime. Perhaps in your country it may be available on one of these streaming platforms.

If you enjoyed Liar Game, it’s also worth checking out other similar titles, such as the animes Kaiji and Akaji, which explore themes of psychological games and risky bets.

Final Reflections

Liar Game is not just a drama about games and lies, but an exploration of human nature. With brilliant twists and a profound message about ethics and survival, it is a work that deserves to be watched and discussed.

Have you watched this classic? Share your opinion in the comments!

The Yakuza and Japanese tattoos share a symbiotic relationship that transcends the simple act of marking the skin. The tattoos, known as irezumi, are both a reflection of the cultural identity of the organization and a central element in its code of values and rituals. In this article, we explore how the practice of tattooing was incorporated by the Yakuza and how both influence each other, creating an inseparable bond between crime, art, and tradition in Japan.

How Did Tattoos Enter the Yakuza?

The practice of tattooing in Japan dates back thousands of years, but its connection with the Yakuza began to form during the Edo period (1603–1868). At this time, tattoos began to be used as punishment for criminals, marking them with ideograms and visible lines, stigmatizing them as social outcasts.

The first members of the Yakuza, mostly gamblers (bakuto) and street vendors (tekiya), faced this stigma directly. To hide the punitive marks or transform their condition into a symbol of pride, they began to adopt artistic tattoos, covering the stigmas with elaborate designs full of meaning.

The Evolution of Symbolism

Within the Yakuza, tattoos were not just a means of camouflage, but a demonstration of courage, resilience, and loyalty. The artisanal and painful process of the tebori technique became a rite of passage for members, symbolizing their commitment to the group and their ability to endure challenges on behalf of the organization.

This practice became a distinctive trait of the Yakuza, differentiating its members from the general population and creating a powerful visual identity that reflected the essence of the organization.

The Meaning of Tattoos in the Yakuza

Yakuza tattoos are not just body ornaments; they tell stories and reflect the values of the organization. The designs often incorporate elements of Japanese mythology and culture, such as dragons, carp, cherry blossoms, and waves.

We also recommend reading: Meaning of Yakuza Tattoos: Art and Culture of the Japanese Underworld

The Yakuza Code Reflected in Art

Tattoos serve as a visual language to express the principles of the Yakuza:

• Loyalty and Hierarchy: Dragons and carp symbolize strength and perseverance, representing dedication to the clan and the established hierarchy.
• Sacrifice: The painful and lengthy process of tattooing is a metaphor for personal sacrifice for the organization.
• Group Identity: Tattoos connect members in a visual bond of belonging, distinguishing them from other groups and society at large.

A Second Skin

The practice of covering large areas of the body with tattoos, leaving only the hands and face free, reflects the duality of life in the Yakuza: the ability to blend into society while maintaining a hidden and powerful identity.

The Impact on Social Perception

The strong connection between the Yakuza and tattoos has shaped the way Japanese society views this practice. Although tattoos are appreciated as a form of art, especially in the West, in Japan they continue to be widely associated with organized crime.

Stigma and Exclusion

This historical bond has resulted in significant social restrictions. Places like onsens (hot springs), gyms, and even swimming pools often prohibit tattooed individuals, making it difficult for marked individuals to integrate, even those without a connection to the Yakuza.

Art Recognized Globally

Despite local prejudice, the art of Yakuza tattoos has gained international recognition. Museums and galleries around the world have exhibited preserved pieces of tattooed skin, celebrating the precision and cultural depth of these works.

The Decline of the Yakuza and Changes in Tradition

In recent years, the Yakuza has faced a decline in its influence, resulting from repressive measures by the Japanese government and social pressure. This weakening has also impacted the tradition of tattoos, with many younger members choosing not to get tattooed in order to avoid discrimination and facilitate integration into legitimate environments.

Final Reflections: The Legacy of an Inseparable Relationship

The relationship between the Yakuza and tattoos goes beyond stigma or aesthetics. It is a symbolic interaction, where body art not only reflects the values and rituals of the organization but also shapes how it is viewed by society.

As the Yakuza struggles to remain relevant in a modern Japan, its tattoos continue to intrigue and inspire, serving as a lasting testament to an era where crime, culture, and art intertwined in a unique and unforgettable way.

You have probably heard of ASCII Text Art, or maybe you have come across one of these arts in a Facebook post, in a funny comment, or even received one via email or text message. Yes, we are talking about those Giant Emoticons created entirely with text characters!

ASCII Art is a form of art that exclusively uses the characters available in the ASCII table (American Standard Code for Information Interchange). This type of art dates back to the typewriter era, where artists were already experimenting with creating drawings using letters, numbers and symbols available. However, with the advent of computers, the practice evolved spectacularly. With a wider range of characters and digital tools, these works became increasingly complex and visually impressive.

Japan, in particular, has a rich culture of ASCII Art. The Japanese are intensely dedicated to this form of expression, creating illustrations that depict characters from anime, manga, and other popular figures in Japanese culture. They are masters at transforming text into incredible images, adding a unique touch that reflects the aesthetics of their stories and visual traditions.

You should also know about Kaomoji, the facial emoticons written with characters.

Where to find ASCII Arts?

Although I wanted to include some examples here in the article, the font style used on our site does not allow ASCII arts to be displayed correctly. But don’t worry! I will leave some external links where you can explore these creations and, who knows, share them with your friends for even more fun.

• https://www.ascii-art.de/ascii/ab/anime.txt
• https://www.sunnyspot.org/asciiart/gallery/
• https://www.chris.com/ascii/

ASCII Art Editor

Of course, with the advancement of technology, it is no longer necessary to create text art simply by typing the text. Nowadays, it is easy with the thousands of editors available. With these editors, you can create a drawing as if you were in Paint, and it will transform it into characters for you to copy and share with your friends.

To access the online ASCIIFlow Infinity editor click here.

Lastly, for the less experienced, we recommend this ASCII Art text generator, click here to access.

 ______  _____  _____  ___  ____   _____   ______   ________   ______  _____  _____  
.' ____ |_   _||_   _||_  ||_  _| |_   _| |_   _ `.|_   __  |.' ____ |_   _||_   _| 
| (___ _| | |    | |    | |_/ /     | |     | | `. | |_ _|| (___ _| | |    | |   
 _.____`. | '    ' |    |  __'.    | |     | |  | | |  _| _  _.____`. | '    ' |   
| ____) |   __/ /    _| |   _  _| |_   _| |_.' /_| |__/ || ____) |   __/ /    
 ______.'   `.__.'    |____||____||_____| |______.'|________| ______.'   `.__.'     

Chess originated from a game called Chaturanga in China. While most of the world plays traditional chess, Japan and some Asian countries have their own version of chess. The Japanese version is called Shogi (将棋). In this article, we will learn how to play this fun and strategic chess.

It is said that shogi was introduced to Japan during the Nara period (704 to 790 AD). If that is the case, then it is possible that shogi does not have origins from chaturanga or Chinese chess. There are notable differences between them. The objective of the game is the same as Western chess, “to capture the opponent’s king.” But the pieces and the board change.

Pieces in Japanese chess

Japanese chess is played on a board of 9 rows by 9 columns. Each player has 20 pieces identical to those of the other player. The pieces of one player are distinguished from those of the other by the direction they point on the board.

The game has equal pieces on both teams to operate the capture and return system in the game. Additionally, some pieces have designs on both sides to identify when a piece has been promoted. The 20 pieces are as follows:

• 1 king
• 2 gold generals
• 2 silver generals
• 2 knights
• 2 lances
• 1 bishop
• 1 rook
• 9 pawns

Movements in Japanese chess

According to the image below, you can see all the movements of the pieces in shogi, and see how similar they are to Western Chess.

Promotion in Japanese chess

Whoever reaches the promotion zone can choose to promote their piece which will give them new movements.

• The silver general, the knight, the lance, or the pawn assume the movement of a gold general
• The rook or the bishop, in addition to their normal movement, gain one more movement. One square diagonally in the case of the rook and one square horizontally or vertically in the case of the bishop;

The image below shows the promotion zone and movement, and the initial position plus the kanji of each piece:

When a piece reaches the last three rows, it may or may not be promoted. The decision is up to the player. They have the opportunity to choose whether to promote their pieces or not, every time they move them through these squares. If the lance, knight, or pawn reach the last row, promotion becomes mandatory.

All pieces when promoted become gold generals, except for the bishop, rook, and the gold general itself. The bishop, in addition to its normal movement, gains the right to move one square vertically or horizontally. The rook, in addition to its normal movement, gains the right to move one square diagonally. The gold general cannot be promoted.

Capture in Japanese chess

Unlike Chess, in Shogi we do not eat pieces, but capture them. A captured piece is kept in hand and can be brought back into the game under the control of the player who captured it (reintroduction), meaning it becomes part of that player’s army as a sort of reserve (but without promotion). In the following title, the rules for reintroducing pieces.

If a king accidentally enters the attack line of a piece, it can be captured and the game ends.

Reintroduction of pieces

Instead of making a normal move, a player can choose one of the pieces they captured and reintroduce it (without promotion) onto the board as one of their pieces. Rules:

• The piece must be placed on an empty square (that is, it cannot be placed and already capture another piece) from anywhere on the board (as long as it does not fall under the following restrictions), even in the promotion zone, but promotion is not immediate (promotion can occur normally in subsequent moves);
• A piece cannot be placed on a square from which it could not make a legal move (pawns, lances, and knights on the last row, nor knights on the penultimate);
• A pawn cannot be placed in a column that already contains another unpromoted pawn of the same player (“nifu”). If a player already has an unpromoted pawn in each column, they cannot reintroduce a pawn anywhere; for this reason, it is common to sacrifice a pawn in order to gain flexibility for reintroduction;
• When reintroducing a pawn, it is not allowed to give checkmate (“uchifuzume”), but it can give a check. Other pieces can give immediate checkmate when reintroduced;
• A game is won by checkmating the opponent’s king. Because of the piece reintroduction rule, a stalemate (which would mean a draw) is highly unlikely;
• Perpetual check is prohibited. The player who causes such a situation is required to abandon it;
• The reintroduction ability of Shogi gives the game tactical richness and complexity;

Download Shogi

If you are interested in playing shogi, you can download an app for your Smartphone or Tablet, or play online or download it on your computer.

• Click here to access shogi games on the Play Store
• Click here to play Shogi Online
• Click here to play Online in Flash
• Shogi on IOS – IPHONE

I hope you enjoyed the article! We count on your possible sharing!

Nobunaga Concerto (信長協奏曲) is a manga series by Ayumi Ishii that tells the story of Saburō, a student who ends up traveling back in time to the Sengoku Period and ends up replacing the famous Oda Nobunaga, the renowned lord who unified Japan. Throughout the series, Saburo will have to learn to live in the Sengoku era and play his role as Nobunaga, trying to end the wars and unify Japan.

The manga is released monthly in the magazine Monthly Shōnen Sunday and received its first animation and TV drama in 2014.

Dorama

Since the manga is monthly, and we currently have only 12 volumes, the dorama was much more developed than the anime and manga, making the story more detailed and slightly changing the aspects of the characters. I really found the dorama to be far superior to the anime; it managed to maintain a comedy, action, and an engaging story from the very first episode. The way the Sengoku Period was portrayed was very good; it truly is a great time travel, both the setting and the story surpass many samurai films that have been made.

The main character, Saburou, is played by Shun Oguri, his lady Kicho is played by Kou Shibasaki, and his right-hand man Tsuneoki Ikeda is played by Mukai Osamu.

The dorama has 11 episodes and has a Live Action set to be released in January 2016; I can’t say whether it will be a film to complement the dorama or a new story.

Some critics had negative thoughts about the series for having changed the main character’s personality quite a bit compared to the manga and anime. Others think that the idea of a man over 30 playing a student is absurd. Nevertheless, the dorama manages to captivate the viewer from start to finish. So watch it! Even if you don’t like doramas… Watch it! I didn’t even have the impression of watching a dorama.

Anime

The anime is also very good, despite using CGI (Computer Graphics), something that many dislike. The anime had only 10 episodes, making it much more concise than the dorama. The events, although similar, occur in different ways compared to the dorama. Kicho’s personality is much gentler in the anime. The anime has a clever soundtrack and direction that knew how to guide the material from start to finish.

It is really worth watching, even if you are bothered by CGI; this anime was a good job and pleased all the fans. It’s true that some will find the animation a bit strange, but that gave a unique touch to the work, and I believe it didn’t hinder it at all. Let’s leave the great Ending for you to get to know a bit of the animation.

Conclusion

It is impossible not to fall in love with this work and its characters. You will cry, laugh, and be moved. I got so involved in the story that when one episode ended, I rushed to the next one without even thinking. Even my mother got addicted.

If you haven’t had the chance to watch Nobunaga Concerto, don’t waste time and watch it now; the Dorama and the Anime are waiting for you.

You can watch both the anime and the dorama of Nobunaga Concerto on Crunchyroll. Or you can resort to pirated means, just search on Google xD

It was Lucas Ribeiro from the page Nintendo, Apple e cultura japonesa Fanbase who recommended this dorama to me.

The Edo Wonderland park or Nikko Edomura is one of the largest theme parks in Japan, and one of the most interesting places I had the opportunity to travel to. In this article, we will share all the tips, information, and curiosities about this Edo period theme park. Get your questions answered and prepare your trip now!

The article is quite extensive and is divided by subtitles, as we will cover various topics, if some details are not of your interest, just navigate through the remaining topics.

What is Nikko Edomura?

Nikko Edomura [日光江戸村] is a large cultural theme park from the Edo Period, located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. The park resurrects and showcases the life and culture of the Edo Period (1603 to 1868) in 17th century Tokyo. It has an area of 495,000M² (49 hectares) and is based on the golden era of the Edo Period known as Genroku.

Edo Wonderland houses a wide variety of things from the Edo Period, such as the architecture of urban and rural accommodations, government residences and buildings, castles, and temples. In this large city, you can find Ninjas, Samurais, Geishas, and others.

You can even rent period costumes or simply take photos with actors in costume. There are 7 theaters, the famous Kabuki theater, ninja and samurai demonstrations, shadow shows, and many others.

Edo Wonderland has a mascot known as Nyanmage, which is a samurai cat. Its name is derived from “nyan” (Japanese onomatopoeia for meowing) and “mage,” the name of the samurai hairstyle.

Edo Wonderland was created on April 23, 1986, in Fujiwara-cho, Shioya-gun, Tochigi, which is now known as the Nikko Kinugawa neighborhood. Three more parks were built in Hokkaido, Kanazawa, and Mie, but these parks were sold in the 2000s.

Attractions of Nikko Edomura Park

Now let’s explore some of the hundreds of attractions present in this Edo Period village:

Ninja Experience

This attraction is a fascinating journey into the secret world of ninjas. You will have the chance to practice ninjutsu skills such as shuriken throwing (ninja stars), concealment techniques, and silent running.

This experience is designed to be interactive and educational, showing not only the physical skills of ninjas but also their role and importance in Japanese history.

Samurai Experience

In this activity, you enter the world of samurais. The experience is divided into several sessions, where you will learn about kenjutsu (the art of the sword), combat techniques, and defensive postures.

The instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of bushido, the samurai code of conduct, providing a deeper understanding of this iconic Japanese figure.

Okappiki Police Experience

Here, visitors have the opportunity to take on the role of a police officer from the Edo period. Dressed in traditional attire, you patrol the streets of the park and solve complex puzzles. This experience is unique because it combines action, strategy, and a glimpse into everyday life in feudal Japan.

Chief Firefighter Sen-gumi’s House

This exhibition is dedicated to a hero of the Edo period, Chief Firefighter Sen-gumi. The reconstructed house is an interactive museum that showcases the life and times of the fire chief, along with artifacts and information about the firefighting techniques of the time.

Karakuri Ninja Maze

This is a complex maze where you are challenged to find your way through a labyrinth of moving walls, secret doors, and ninja puzzles. Each section of the maze is designed to test your intelligence, patience, and problem-solving skills.

Kai Kai Ninja House

Known as the “crooked house,” this attraction disorients visitors with its slanted environments and gravity-defying structures. Ideal for those who enjoy optical illusions and a good mental challenge, the Kai Kai Ninja House is a fun and intriguing experience.

Jigoku Temple

This experience is for those who enjoy a bit of thrill. The Jigoku Temple (Hell Temple) is a stylized haunted house that takes visitors into a world of ghosts and scary sounds, based on Japanese legends and folklore.

Kodenma Prison

This attraction is a realistic representation of a prison from the Edo period. The display includes three-dimensional representations of the punishments and living conditions of prisoners, offering a dark yet educational insight into justice in feudal Japan.

Kanuchi Blacksmith Exhibition

Here, you will learn about the art of forging katanas, the famous samurai swords. The exhibition details each step of the manufacturing process, from selecting the ore to the final forging of the blade, highlighting the skill and artistry involved in creating these legendary weapons.

Theatrical Performances

Nikko Edomura offers a variety of theatrical shows, including ninja performances with special effects, historical dramatizations at the Minami Machi Magistrate’s Office, water shows at Mizugei-za, and recreations of love stories from the Edo red-light district at Wakamatsu-ya. Additionally, there is a cinema that screens cultural films about famous characters from the Edo period and parades of Oiran courtesans, showcasing the beauty and elegance of these historical figures.

Each of these attractions offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to interact directly with the history and culture of Edo period Japan in educational and entertaining ways.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience street performances, parades, seasonal festivals, and special events. Edo Wonderland also has a series of unique experiences for adults and children, including Ninja workshops, traditional Japanese archery, and you can even throw shuriken.

If you want to learn more about the history of Japan, we recommend the drama Nobunaga Concerto.

Honesty is a quality admired in all cultures, but in Japan it reaches levels that surprise visitors and enchant those who have the opportunity to know the country. For the Japanese, being honest is not just a virtue, but a moral obligation deeply rooted in their way of life. This attitude is reflected in everyday actions, from returning lost items to government practices that prioritize transparency.

Although Japan is not free from problems such as corruption and isolated crimes, Japanese society stands out for the predominance of honest behaviors. This article explores some examples that illustrate how honesty is experienced in Japan and what we can learn from it to apply in our own lives.

Mujin Hanbai: Trust-Based Commerce

In Japan, it is common to find stalls known as Mujin Hanbai, small structures by the roadside where farmers sell fruits, vegetables, and other products. The curious detail? These stalls have no sellers. The products are made available to customers along with a box for payment. Trust is the foundation of this system, and it is rare for someone to take the products without paying.

This reflects a collective mentality that prioritizes respect for others and a sense of community. While in many countries it would be unthinkable to trust a self-service system without supervision, in Japan it thrives. This practice is a reminder that individual honesty is essential for coexistence in society.

The Role of Education in Honesty

The honesty of the Japanese is fostered from an early age, with values taught in schools and reinforced at home. Children learn that lying or taking advantage is unacceptable, and this solid foundation shapes adult behavior. The result is a society where mutual trust is natural, strengthening human and economic relationships.

Honesty in Daily Life: Lost and Returned Items

One of the most fascinating stories about honesty in Japan is related to the care for lost items. If you forget your wallet or phone in a public place, there is a good chance of recovering them intact. In Japan, the concept of “finders keepers” has no place.

During the earthquake and tsunami of 2011, for example, more than 125 million dollars in cash was returned from debris. From safes to bags filled with yen, the Japanese people returned everything to the police, who worked hard to locate the owners.

A Revealing Experiment

In 2003, a law professor conducted an interesting experiment: he left 20 wallets on the streets of Tokyo and 20 on the streets of New York, all containing money. While in New York only six wallets were returned, in Tokyo the number reached 17. This example reinforces the idea that honesty is an integral part of Japanese culture, influencing the daily attitudes of its citizens.

Piracy

What is abundant in Brazil are stalls selling pirated DVDs and CDs. Then I think: “I don’t want to collaborate with piracy, it’s better to download from the internet.” Know that in Japan most people prefer to pay to download a song rather than download it for free on Google. Downloading songs, movies, and series is seen as a crime, it really is a crime, both in Brazil and in Japan this is still piracy.

Proof of this is that if you search for songs in Japanese, or anything else like books, movies, mangas… You will come across a shopping site, you might even find the download button, but when you click it you will have to shell out some yen. If you search in Japanese, it will be difficult to find pirated media on the internet.

Some still prefer to buy the CD, DVD, CD-ROM instead of pirating. While in Brazil everyone is using the mp3 format with thousands of songs, the classic original CD is quite marketed there.

Governance and Transparency: An Example to Follow

In Japan, even the rulers demonstrate a commitment to honesty that is rare in other countries. Although the country is not free from cases of corruption, the way these incidents are handled is exemplary. When politicians or authorities are caught in dishonest acts, many resign immediately, and some even resort to suicide due to the public shame.

After the tsunami of 2011, the government of Fukushima Prefecture returned about 180 million reais that had been received for humanitarian aid. Instead of withholding the funds, as might be expected in other parts of the world, the authorities chose to return the unused money, reinforcing the image of a system committed to transparency.

Honesty: A Matter of Pride

Japanese law also plays an important role in maintaining honesty. For example, those who find money or valuable items and do not return them may face severe legal penalties. This rigor creates an environment where honest behavior is not only expected but necessary.

Conclusion

The honesty of the Japanese goes far beyond a cultural trait; it is a daily practice that shapes society at all levels. Whether in small fruit stalls without supervision or in the actions of politicians who return public funds, Japan teaches us that honesty is the foundation for a fairer and more harmonious coexistence.

Although each culture has its own characteristics, adopting some Japanese practices could positively transform our lives. Valuing others, returning what does not belong to us, and acting with transparency are universal lessons that start with small gestures and reflect great values.

And you? Have you experienced or heard of an exemplary honesty situation? Share your stories and help inspire others to follow the same path!

Automatic vending machines make our lives easier. In Japan, they are known as jidohanbaiki (自動販売機) or simply hanbaiki, and there are over 5 million of them spread across the country. You can find one or five on every corner, even at the entrance of markets and stores. They can even be in the middle of the woods, and no one breaks them or litters nearby.

Most hanbaiki serve hot and cold drinks like teas, sodas, coffees, energy drinks, beers, and others. In reality, there are countless machines that sell even bizarre things that you wouldn’t imagine being sold in an automatic machine; in this article, we will see many types of these machines.

What do Japanese machines sell?

Besides normal products like drinks, snacks, and sweets, there are some hanbaiki that sell rice of all types. Others sell milk, some even sell umbrellas and batteries. There is one that is a drawer where you can place your phone to charge inside. And of course, there are Hanbaiki that sell fruits and vegetables.

It’s not just snacks; some machines sell real savory foods like hot dogs made on the spot. In some temples and shrines, there are automatic machines that sell charms and fortune slips. Some machines dispense ice cream shops, selling ice creams of various flavors.

Why go to a toy store if there is a hanbaiki that sells toys? Those who are shy about going to clothing stores can buy their ties from a hanbaiki. Eggs are also commonly found in hanbaiki.

There are some machines that sell Cup Noodles. Hanbaiki that sell clothes, t-shirts, and accessories for the shy also exist. Going to the extreme, there are machines that sell used panties for the perverts on duty. Others sell gold bars, koi food, and bananas.

We cannot forget to mention the automatic machines that exist in train stations and other places, which sell tickets for trains, tickets for events, or things like that. Even gas stations have automatic machines for payment.

There are many bizarre automatic vending machines that we haven’t mentioned. Some sell bicycles; there is even one that sells cars. Just like the konbini, these machines make life much easier for people in Japan. To explore these machines better, we will leave a playlist of videos below from the channel Japão nosso de cada dia that shows various hanbaiki.