1. What are the cultural highlights of Muroran that one should not miss?
Some cultural highlights of Muroran that one should not miss include:
1. The Yanagawa District: This district is home to many historical buildings and streets, including the former residences of prominent figures in Muroran’s history. Visitors can also take a stroll along the canal and enjoy traditional Japanese architecture.
2. Muroran City Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Muroran through various exhibitions, artifacts, and interactive displays. It also has a special section dedicated to the Ainu people, the indigenous people of Hokkaido.
3. Genseitei Hiroba Square: This open-air square hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as music concerts, performances, and food festivals that showcase local specialties.
4. Tetsugakukan Theater: This theater is a converted old movie theater turned performing arts center. It hosts a variety of performances, including classical music concerts, theatrical productions, and traditional cultural shows.
5. Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura: Located just outside of Muroran in Noboribetsu, this theme park transports visitors back in time to Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868). Here you can experience life in a traditional village with samurai houses, ninja demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
6. Jingu Shrine: This Shinto shrine is said to have been established over 1,200 years ago during Japan’s Nara period (710-794). It is known for its beautiful gardens and views of Ishikari Bay.
7. Muroran City Fishery Industry Center: As fishing is an important part of Muroran’s economy and culture, this center exhibits various aspects of the city’s fishing industry through displays and hands-on activities.
8. Local festivals: Throughout the year, there are various local festivals held in Muroran that highlight traditional Japanese celebrations and customs. Some notable ones include the Summer Festival Lantern Parade, the Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Autumn Festival.
2. How do the local residents preserve their traditional culture in Muroran?
There are a few ways in which the local residents preserve their traditional culture in Muroran:
1. Festivals and Celebrations: Muroran hosts many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Oni Matsuri (Demon Festival) and Tengu Matsuri (Tengu Festival), where residents dress in traditional costumes, perform traditional dances and parade through the streets.
2. Traditional Crafts: The city is known for its traditional crafts such as pottery, wood carving, and lacquerware. These crafts have been passed down through generations and continue to be practiced by local artisans, preserving their traditional techniques.
3. Local Cuisine: Muroran has a unique culinary heritage influenced by its location near the sea and mountains. Local dishes like “Muroran curry” and “Olive beef” are made using traditional methods and ingredients, keeping alive the city’s food culture.
4. Cultural Institutions: The city has several cultural institutions such as museums, art galleries, and theaters that showcase traditional artworks, performances, and exhibitions related to local customs and traditions.
5. Community Efforts: Local community groups work towards preserving their heritage by organizing workshops, seminars, and events that focus on traditional practices like folk dancing, tea ceremony demonstrations, etc.
6. Preservation of Historic Sites: Muroran has many historic sites, including shrines, temples, and old buildings that are protected by the government for their cultural significance.
7. Passing Down Knowledge: Families pass down knowledge of their traditions to younger generations through storytelling or hands-on activities like cooking or crafting together.
8. Education: Schools in Muroran also play a role in preserving traditional culture by incorporating it into their curriculum or organizing field trips to cultural sites to educate students about their heritage.
9. Tourism Promotion: The city actively promotes its rich cultural heritage to tourists by offering experiences like homestays with local families or guided tours focused on showcasing traditional customs and crafts.
10. Appreciation for Tradition: Most importantly, the local residents themselves have a strong appreciation for their traditional culture and actively participate in its preservation through their daily practices and customs.
3. Can you recommend any particular festivals or events that showcase Muroran’s culture?
Some popular festivals and events in Muroran include:
1. Muroran Port Festival – held during the Golden Week holiday in late April/early May, this festival features parades, fireworks displays, local food vendors, and traditional performances.
2. Muroran Whale Watching Tour – organized by the Muroran City Tourism Association, this tour allows visitors to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat off the coast of Muroran.
3. Nippon Morgane History Marathon – held annually in June, this marathon course takes runners through various historical sites in Muroran.
4. Cherry Blossom Festival at Higashimuroran Park – held every year from late April to early May when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, this festival offers visitors a chance to enjoy picnics under the beautiful pink trees.
5. Onuma-Ko Valley National Park Summer Festival – this summer festival held in July features local music, dancing, and craft vendors set against the picturesque backdrop of Onuma-Ko Valley National Park.
6. Muroran Jazz Fest – held every August since 2007, this event brings together jazz musicians from all over Japan for a weekend of concerts and jam sessions.
7. Mombetsu Horse Racing at Muroran Racecourse – located on the northern outskirts of Muroran, this horse racing track holds regular races throughout the year with lots of excitement and cheering from spectators.
8. Suigo Kotohajime Ceremony – taking place on New Year’s morning at Chikapira Shrine, this annual ceremony involves priests playing rare traditional instruments known as “kotekan” to wish for good luck and health for the new year.
4. Are there any famous historical landmarks in Muroran that offer insights into its cultural past?
Muroran is relatively modern city, with most of its development occurring in the 20th century due to industrialization. As such, there are not many well-known historical landmarks or sites that offer insights into its cultural past. However, there are a few notable places that hold significance in Muroran’s history:1) Hakucho Bridge: This suspension bridge, built in 1887, played a crucial role in connecting Muroran to other parts of Hokkaido and promoting economic growth. It also serves as a symbol of the city’s early development.
2) Cape Chikyu: Located at the southernmost tip of Muroran, this scenic spot is said to be the first place where Ainu people and Japanese settlers made contact in the late 19th century. It is also known for its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
3) Former Taito-kan Residence: This Western-style house was built in 1906 by a coal mine owner and has been preserved as a museum showcasing the lifestyle of wealthy coal miners during the Meiji era.
4) Muroran Museum of Modern Art: Established in 1975, this museum features exhibits on modern and contemporary art from Japan and around the world. It also holds a significant collection of works by local artists.
5) Butsugenji Temple: Founded in 1897, this Buddhist temple is one of the oldest religious sites in Muroran. It is known for its beautiful garden and unique Buddhist statues carved into trees.
Overall, while Muroran may not have as many famous historical landmarks as other cities in Japan, these sites offer glimpses into its past and contribute to its cultural identity.
5. What kind of traditional cuisine can be found in Muroran and where is the best place to try it?
Muroran is known for its seafood, particularly crab, scallops, and octopus. Some popular dishes include kaisendon (sashimi bowl), ikameshi (stuffed squid), and Muroran yakitori (grilled chicken skewers). Many local restaurants and izakayas along the Muroran coastline offer these dishes using fresh seafood caught directly from the Sea of Japan.
One of the best places to try traditional Muroran cuisine is at the Kushiro Fish Market in Muroran Bay area. This bustling market has a wide selection of seafood dishes, including specialty items like grilled butter clams and seafood ramen. Other popular dining options in Muroran include izakayas such as Kanematsu Shokudo, which serves delicious grilled seafood and yakitori dishes, and Karapiro Shokudo, famous for their kamameshi (steamed rice with seafood or meat) dishes.
6. How does the local art scene in Muroran reflect the city’s cultural identity?
The local art scene in Muroran reflects the city’s cultural identity through its strong focus on industry and nature.
Muroran is known for its heavy industrial presence, and this is often reflected in the artist’s work. Many local artists use materials and techniques that are commonly found in the city’s factories, such as steel or metalwork. Additionally, some artists draw inspiration from the shapes and structures of industrial buildings and machinery in their paintings and sculptures.
On the other hand, Muroran also has a beautiful natural environment with stunning views of the ocean and mountains. This is also reflected in the local art scene, with many artists incorporating elements of nature into their work. The city’s annual art festival, “Art Harbor” takes place along the city’s coastline and features artworks that highlight the unique beauty of Muroran’s natural surroundings.
Overall, the local art scene in Muroran showcases a balance between industry and nature, reflecting the city’s identity as a bustling port town nestled among stunning natural landscapes. It also serves as a reminder of how these two seemingly contrasting aspects coexist harmoniously to make up Muroran’s character.
7. Are there any traditional crafts or industries that are unique to Muroran?
Yes, there is a traditional craft called “Muroran-bushi Kumihanashi,” which is a type of cotton weaving that has been practiced in Muroran for over 150 years. This technique involves using a loom to weave intricate designs onto cloth, often depicting scenes of nature or local landmarks. The finished products are used for various purposes such as tablecloths, curtains, and traditional Japanese clothing. Muroran also has a long history of coal mining and steel production industries, which have played a significant role in the city’s economy.
8. How do the people of Muroran honor their ancestors and pay tribute to their heritage?
The people of Muroran honor their ancestors and pay tribute to their heritage in various ways, such as:
1. Annual rituals and ceremonies: The most common way of honoring ancestors in Muroran is through annual rituals and ceremonies that are held at family altars or community shrines. These rituals usually involve offering food, drinks, and incense as a sign of respect to the deceased.
2. Grave visits: Visiting the gravesites of ancestors is another way of paying tribute to them. Families often gather at the cemetery to clean the graves, offer flowers or incense, and say prayers.
3. Ancestor worship: Many families in Muroran also have a household shrine dedicated to their ancestors, where they offer daily prayers and offerings.
4. Festival celebrations: Festivals like Obon, which is a Japanese Buddhist holiday dedicated to ancestral spirits, are widely celebrated in Muroran. During this festival, people visit their family graves and hold large community events with traditional dances and offerings to welcome back the spirits of their ancestors.
5. Family reunions: In Muroran, it is common for families to gather for reunions during important days like New Year’s or Golden Week holidays. These gatherings are seen as an opportunity to not only bond with living relatives but also remember and honor those who have passed away.
6. Genealogy research: Many people in Muroran are interested in tracing their family roots through genealogy research. This helps them connect with their ancestors and learn more about their family history.
7. Preservation of cultural artifacts: The city has several museums dedicated to preserving local history and cultural artifacts related to ancestral traditions. These museums serve as a reminder of the city’s heritage and educate visitors about its unique tradition.
8. Passing down cultural practices: Another way of honoring ancestors in Muroran is by passing down cultural practices from one generation to another, such as traditional arts, crafts, music, or cooking methods. This keeps the ancestral traditions alive and ensures that they are not forgotten.
9. Is there a specific dress code or etiquette one should follow while exploring Muroran’s culture?
There is no specific dress code or etiquette that one must follow while exploring Muroran’s culture. However, it is always polite to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes when entering someone’s home or taking your hat off when entering a building. Additionally, being mindful of the environment and keeping public spaces clean is always appreciated in Japanese culture.
10. Can you share some interesting facts about the indigenous Ainu people and their influence on Muroran’s culture?
1. The Ainu people are an indigenous people who have occupied Hokkaido and other parts of northern Japan for centuries, dating back to the Jomon period (14,000-300 BCE).
2. The word “Ainu” means “human” or “people.” They are also known by their own name, Utari.
3. The Ainu language is considered a language isolate, meaning it has no known connections to other languages in the world.
4. Traditional Ainu culture is deeply intertwined with nature and animism, believing that all things possess a spiritual essence.
5. Their traditional clothing is made from materials such as bark fiber, animal skins, and plant fibers, adorned with intricate patterns and designs unique to each region.
6. The Ainu have a distinct form of music called mukkuri melos, which involves playing the mukkuri instrument (a small mouth harp) and singing songs passed down through oral tradition.
7. Muroran has a significant population of Ainu people, who have maintained their cultural traditions despite years of assimilation efforts by the Japanese government.
8. One of the most prominent aspects of Ainu culture in Muroran is their traditional dance known as iyomante, which involves wearing distinctive animal-like masks and dancing around open flames in ritualistic ceremonies.
9. Many local festivals in Muroran feature Ainu culture and traditions, such as the Muroran Port Festival held every August where visitors can experience traditional performances and purchase handmade crafts from Ainu artisans.
10. The Ainu influence on Muroran’s cuisine can be seen through dishes like “erimo kombu,” a type of kelp used in traditional dishes like soup and pickles, which is harvested by hand by members of the local Ainu community.
11. Do any museums or cultural centers in Muroran offer educational exhibits on its history and traditions?
Yes, there are several museums and cultural centers in Muroran that offer educational exhibits on its history and traditions. These include:
1. Muroran City Museum: This museum features exhibitions on the history, culture, and industrial heritage of Muroran.
2. Muroran Culture Center: The center offers various exhibitions and performances showcasing traditional Japanese crafts, arts, music, and dances.
3. Canal Plaza: This historical building houses a museum that displays the development of Muroran’s port and industries.
4. Inakanoto Cultural Exchange Center: This cultural center hosts regular exhibitions on Ainu culture and history.
5. Temiya Railway Museum: A small but informative exhibit about the railway network in Muroran.
6. Kodera Residence Museum: This is a historic house converted into a museum displaying the life of a wealthy merchant family in the Meiji era.
7. Hakucho Bridge Tower Museum: This museum showcases the construction process of Hakucho Bridge, one of the landmarks of Muroran.
8. Kankou Kan Memorial Hall: A memorial hall dedicated to Kankou Kan, a local poet-merchant who contributed greatly to the development of Muroran in early 20th century Japan.
Overall, these museums and cultural centers offer insights into the unique history and traditions of Muroran through various exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
12. What is the role of religion in daily life in Muroran?
Religion plays a significant role in the daily life of people in Muroran, as it does in most towns and cities in Japan. The two main religions practiced are Shintoism and Buddhism. Many Japanese people practice both religions simultaneously, as they coexist harmoniously.
For most people in Muroran, religion is not just a set of beliefs, but also an integral part of their cultural identity. There are numerous shrines and temples scattered throughout the city, each with its own unique rituals and practices that locals follow regularly. These include purification rites at Shinto shrines or offering prayers and incense at Buddhist temples.
Additionally, various religious festivals and ceremonies are held throughout the year, which bring communities together to celebrate and honor their beliefs. For example, during New Year’s celebrations, many people visit shrines to pray for good fortune in the upcoming year.
Religious values also influence daily actions and behaviors. These could include showing respect for nature through regular offerings at shrines or practicing compassion towards others based on Buddhist teachings.
Overall, religion provides a sense of community and tradition for many people living in Muroran. It serves as a source of guidance, comfort, and connection to their cultural heritage.
13. Are there any important shrines or temples that hold significance for the locals?
Yes, there are several important shrines and temples that hold significance for locals in Japan. Some examples include:
1. Sensoji Temple: Located in Tokyo, this ancient Buddhist temple is the oldest and most famous in the city.
2. Fushimi Inari Taisha: This Shinto shrine, located in Kyoto, is known for its thousands of bright orange torii gates that wind through a forested mountain.
3. Itsukushima Shrine: This Shinto shrine, also known as the “floating torii gate,” is located on the island of Miyajima and is renowned for its scenic beauty.
4. Todaiji Temple: Located in Nara, this Buddhist temple houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha.
5. Meiji Jingu Shrine: Situated in Tokyo’s bustling Harajuku district, this Shinto shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken.
6. Kiyomizu-dera Temple: This Buddhist temple in Kyoto is notable for its wooden stage that juts out over a steep cliff and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
7. Toshogu Shrine: Located in Nikko National Park, this colorful shrine complex is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.
8. Ise Grand Shrine: Considered one of Japan’s most sacred Shinto shrines, Ise Grand Shrine consists of two main shrines dedicated to Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
9. Horyu-ji Temple: This Buddhist temple complex near Nara is home to some of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden structures.
10. Yasukuni Shrine: This controversial Shinto shrine in Tokyo honors Japan’s war dead, including convicted war criminals from World War II.
14. Is there a community-based cultural exchange program in Muroran where tourists can interact with locals and learn about their way of life?
There is not a specific community-based cultural exchange program in Muroran, but many local organizations and businesses offer activities and experiences that allow tourists to interact with locals and learn about their way of life. These include homestays, traditional craft workshops, cooking classes, and guided tours led by locals. One popular option is the “eko-chi” (eco-stay) program, where visitors can stay in a local home and participate in daily activities with the host family. Additionally, there are various festivals and events throughout the year that provide opportunities for cultural exchange, such as the Muroran Snow Festival and the Muroran Fishery Industry Festival.
15. How does contemporary Japanese pop culture intersect with traditional aspects of Muroran’s culture?
Contemporary Japanese pop culture in Muroran intersects with traditional aspects of the city’s culture in various ways. Some examples include:1. Festivals and events: Muroran hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that showcase both modern and traditional aspects of the city’s culture. For example, the Muroran Yosakoi Soran Festival combines contemporary dance performances with traditional soran folk music.
2. Food: Traditional Japanese dishes are often incorporated into modern restaurants and cafes in Muroran, creating a fusion of old and new tastes. Local specialties such as karepan (curry bread) and muronkaki (a variety of persimmon) are also celebrated in popular food blogs and social media posts.
3. Fashion: Many young people in Muroran incorporate elements of traditional Japanese fashion, such as kimono or yukata, into their contemporary streetwear looks.
4. Design: Traditional Japanese design elements can be seen in many modern buildings, shops, and products in Muroran. For example, traditional wooden structures are given a modern twist through new construction techniques.
5. Entertainment: Traditional forms of entertainment like kabuki and taiko drumming are still performed regularly in theaters and events around Muroran. They are also often featured in modern media such as anime or video games, bringing them to a wider audience.
6. Crafts: The city has a rich history of pottery making and other traditional crafts, which are still practiced by artisans today. Many local shops offer intricately crafted souvenirs that combine traditional techniques with modern designs.
Overall, contemporary Japanese pop culture intertwines with traditional aspects of Muroran’s culture to create a unique blend that reflects the city’s evolving identity while honoring its roots.
16. Are there any must-visit locations within the city for photography enthusiasts to capture its cultural essence?
Yes, there are several must-visit locations in the city for photography enthusiasts to capture its cultural essence. These include:
1. The Grand Palace – a stunning complex of buildings and temples with intricate architecture and rich history
2. Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) – one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand with beautiful sculptures and decorations
3. Chinatown – a bustling neighborhood filled with colorful markets, street food, and Chinese temples
4. Chatuchak Weekend Market – one of the world’s largest markets offering a vibrant atmosphere and countless photo opportunities
5. Khao San Road – a popular tourist street known for its lively nightlife, street food stalls, and unique characters
6. Lumphini Park – an oasis in the middle of the city with scenic lakes, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife
7. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) – an iconic temple by the Chao Phraya River that showcases stunning architecture and offers beautiful river views
8. Jim Thompson House – a traditional Thai-style house turned museum showcasing exquisite art collections and traditional decor.
17. Are there any designated UNESCO World Heritage sites near Muroran that are worth visiting?
There are several designated UNESCO World Heritage sites within a few hours drive of Muroran:1. Shiretoko National Park: Located about 2-3 hours north of Muroran, this park is home to one of the last remaining untouched wilderness areas in Japan and has been designated as a natural World Heritage site.
2. Otaru Canal: Located about an hour west of Muroran, this picturesque canal was built in the early 20th century and is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings. It is a cultural World Heritage site.
3. Yakushima Island: Located about 5-6 hours south of Muroran by ferry, this island is a natural World Heritage site known for its ancient cedar forests and diverse wildlife.
4. Shirakami-Sanchi: Located about 7-8 hours southwest of Muroran, this mountainous region is known for its beech forests and is a natural World Heritage site.
5. Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama: Located about 6-7 hours south of Muroran, these traditional villages are well-preserved examples of traditional Japanese architecture and way of life. They are cultural World Heritage sites.
18.Environmentalism plays a significant role in Japan, how has this influenced or intersected with cultural practices in Muroran?
Environmentalism is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and has heavily influenced the practices of Muroran. The city of Muroran has a long history of industrialization, with its economy being largely dependent on steel production and other heavy industries. However, as Japan faced mounting environmental issues, such as air and water pollution, the country’s cultural values began to shift towards preserving the environment.
One way that environmentalism has intersected with cultural practices in Muroran is through the concept of mottainai. This term, which roughly translates to “what a waste,” is rooted in Buddhist teachings and reflects the Japanese value of not wasting or being wasteful. In Muroran, this concept is evident in various aspects of daily life, such as recycling efforts and reducing consumption.
Furthermore, traditional Shinto beliefs also include a reverence for nature and its preservation. This belief system has influenced many environmental practices in Muroran, including efforts to protect forests and wildlife habitats. For example, there are areas designated as sacred groves where trees cannot be cut down or disturbed.
In addition to cultural practices, environmentalism has also had a significant impact on government policies and initiatives in Muroran. The local government has implemented several measures to reduce pollution and promote sustainability. For instance, there are strict regulations on emissions from factories and power plants, as well as initiatives to promote renewable energy sources.
Moreover, environmental awareness campaigns and eco-friendly events have become an integral part of annual festivals in Muroran. These events showcase environmentally friendly products and educate the community on sustainable living practices.
Overall, environmentalism in Japan has had a profound influence on cultural values and practices in Muroran. While industry remains an essential part of the city’s economy, there is a strong emphasis on balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. As a result, Muroran serves as a prime example of how environmentalism can intersect with traditional cultural practices without compromising economic development.
19.Is it common to see street performers showcasing traditional arts and performances in public spaces around town?
It depends on the location and culture of the town. In some places, street performers are a common sight and it may be considered part of the local entertainment or cultural experience. In other places, street performances may be less expected or may be limited to certain specific events or locations.
20.What advice would you give someone who wants to fully immerse themselves in Muroran’s culture and better understand its people?
1. Explore the local food scene: Muroran is known for its delicious seafood and rich culinary culture. To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, try out different local dishes such as kaisendon (seafood bowl), ikameshi (stuffed squid), and gyutan (grilled beef tongue).
2. Visit historical sites: Muroran has a long and interesting history, with various cultural influences from indigenous Ainu people to Japanese settlers. Visit sites such as Cape Chikyu, Old Muroran Port, and Noboribetsu Jigokudani (Hell Valley) to learn more about the city’s past.
3. Attend festivals and events: Traditional festivals and events are a great way to fully experience the local culture. Don’t miss out on events such as the Muroran Snow Festival in February or the Onsen Geisha Festival in September.
4. Interact with locals: The best way to understand a culture is by interacting with its people. Strike up a conversation with locals at bars, restaurants, or while participating in activities like hiking or fishing.
5. Learn about the Ainu culture: The Ainu people have been an important part of Hokkaido’s history and culture. Visit the Muroran Ainu Culture Promotion Center to learn about their traditions, language, and way of life.
6. Participate in traditional activities: Try your hand at traditional activities like calligraphy, tea ceremony, or flower arrangement through workshops or classes offered in the city.
7. Stay at a ryokan: To truly get a feel of Japanese hospitality and customs, stay at a ryokan (traditional inn) where you can experience sleeping on futons and eating meals served in traditional tatami-matted rooms.
8. Take part in local celebrations: Joining in on local celebrations such as New Year’s festivities, temple visits during Obon festival or attending cherry blossom viewing parties is a great way to experience Japanese culture up close.
9. Explore the local markets: Visit local markets such as Muroran Fish Market and Yumetateyama Farmers’ Market to gain insight into local produce and talk to farmers and fishermen about their livelihoods.
10. Volunteer in the community: Volunteering allows you to directly interact with locals and get involved in community activities, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the culture and people of Muroran.
11. Attend cultural workshops or classes: Many cultural centers offer workshops on traditional crafts like pottery, wood carving, or weaving. Taking part in these classes can give you hands-on experience and insight into local craftsmanship.
12. Learn some basic Japanese: Knowing a few basic phrases in Japanese will not only make your interactions with locals smoother but also show your genuine interest in the culture and people of Muroran.
13. Explore nearby towns and villages: Take day trips to nearby towns like Noboribetsu or Date, which have their unique cultures and traditions, allowing you to gain a broader understanding of the region’s diversity.
14. Stay at a minshuku: Minshuku are budget-friendly family-run guesthouses that provide a more intimate glimpse into the daily life of locals. Most owners are happy to chat about their hometown and recommend places to visit.
15. Watch traditional performances: Watch performances such as Ainu dance, Yosakoi dance, or taiko drumming showcases at festivals or events for an immersive cultural experience.
16. Learn about religion: Shintoism is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, so take some time to visit shrines like Usami Shrine or Assamura Shrine to learn about their practices and beliefs.
17. Read up on the city’s history: Understanding a place’s historical background is essential for fully immersing yourself in its culture. Pick up books about Muroran’s history from the local library or bookstore.
18. Take part in local customs: Whether it’s visiting hot springs, taking off your shoes before entering a home, or learning how to properly use chopsticks, participating in local customs shows respect for the culture and its people.
19. Learn traditional arts: Muroran has a long tradition of pottery making, lacquerware crafting, and wood carving. Sign up for classes or workshops to gain insight into these ancient art forms.
20. Connect with expats: There is a small but thriving expat community in Muroran that can offer valuable insights into Japanese culture while also sharing their own experiences and perspectives on living in the city. Join community groups or attend events to meet other foreigners and locals alike.