Animated Pictograms

Fun and easy-to-understand presentation of historical culture and traditional customs that are uniquely Japanese.

  • VISIT TO TEMPLE / SHIRINE
  • BOWING
  • POUNDING RICE CAKE
  • HAILING A CAB / TAXI
  • TAKING A BATH
  • WATER ABLUTION
  • TEA CEREMONY
  • RHYTHMIC CLAPPING AT CELEBRATIONS
  • RIDING THE TRAIN
  • WINNING MOVES IN SUMŌ
  • AWA DANCE FESTIVAL
  • Coming Soon

About The Project

EXPERIENCE JAPAN PICTOGRAMS were developed to provide visual support for tourists in Japan.
For more information about the objectives and design concept of the project, please click here.

Request

If you would like us to create new PICTOGRAMS for you or have other requests, please contact us here.

MAIKO

舞妓[MAIKO]

An apprentice geisha in Kyoto whose jobs consist of performing songs, dances, and playing the shamisen for visitors during banquets and parties. Maiko’s appearances are characterized by glamorous kimono, long dangling obi (belt), and white makeup. You cannot encounter a maiko by just visiting anywhere in Kyoto. You may be able to find one or two walking on the street in areas called “Hanamachi” if you are lucky. Photo studios where you can take pictures in a maiko outfit are very popular. Taking pictures of maiko without their permission is prohibited. Every tourist is responsible for not wiping the smiles from their faces.