What is The First Japanese Pop-Culture? It's Refreshing and Funny. [Good Idea Series]

What is the first Japanese Pop-Culture?

Pop-Culture or Popular culture is the combination of interests and activities that a group of people share. Movies, TV shows, actors, singers, toys, games and clothes are all a part of it. Many items from pop culture are bought or enjoyed by people for entertainment during their free time. [1]



It is well-known by us that Japanese pop-culture has an influence around the world including North America and other Asia's countries.


Thus, what is the first Japanese Pop-Culture?
Is it Takeshi's Castle?

Takeshi's Castle. Have you ever watched it? It's super duper funny :)

Not really. ^^

Then, is it Sudoku? (If you had Nokia phone before, you might have played this game before.)

Sudoku: meaning single number

Not really again. hahaha



So, what is it?
Actually, the first Japanese Pop-Culture is Kabuki (歌舞伎). 
Kabuki (created in 1603)  is a classical Japanese dance-drama (Theatre). Kabuki theatre is known for the stylization of its drama and for the elaborate make-up worn by some of its performers.

For your information, Kabuki  is a national living treasure of Japan. As you can say that Kabuki is a super important culture for Japan.

Photo of Kabuki performance which is taken in 1910s

Kabuki emphasizes on make-up, called Kensho.
Their base of make-up (white) is made from rice powder.

Look at the costume! Isn't that wonderful?
Do you know that the  person above is a man not a woman? You can see the video under to know why.

Short Introduction for Kabuki (only 7 minutes):





More Awesome Video of Kabuki which has a length only of 28 mins
(I think this video is the best explanation of Kabuki. It's really funny, amazing and cool. ^^ You can learn a lot from this video.)




More Interesting Fact from Indonesia:
Do you know Mr.Chairul Tanjung? He is the founder of Trans TV, owner of Bank MEGA and other big corporates in Indonesia.

He said in his book "Chairul Tanjung: Si Anak Singkong", he had joined theatrical class from his junior to senior high. He said that the class gave him a lot of valuable lessons and impacted him positively. [2]


Hope it is useful for you. Want to see Kabuki next time?

Cheers,

Albert ^^


References:
[1] http://www.ask.com/question/what-is-pop-culture
[2] Diredja, Tjahja Gunawan. Chairul Tanjung: Si Anak Singkong. Indonesia: Kompas Gramedia. 2012, chapter 12.