The word Yamatodamashi finds its roots in ancient Japanese culture but in recent years is re-emerging in the spirit of the people, as the need for Japan to return to a more harmonious existence with nature is now both critical and urgent . When one stands in a mega city like Tokyo, Japan's technological prowess is clear for anyone to see and can't help but leave you with a sense of awe. At the heart of much of Japanese culture however, whether it be a tanka poem or kimono design, one finds the expression of the human heart when inspired by the exquisite beauty of nature.
The people of Yamato as Japan was once known sang passionately in celebration of the exquisite connection between all life and the cycles of nature, and their vibrant spirit can be felt in the some 4,500 poignant poems which make up the Manyoshu, Japan's oldest anthology of poetry.
At the heart of Yamatodamashi we find a universal message that comes at a time when the planet is faced with overwhelming possibility of environmental catastrophe. It is a simple message that perhaps what is really missing for us today is the power of love, and if we but hear the ancient voices of the Yamato people from across the ancient plains of Nara, human beings may return to a more natural way of living on the earth.
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| Omiya Shrine, the most sacred shrine of Yamato |
What would our world be afterall, without the sweet fragrance of the cherry blossoms, the call of a cuckoo across a bamboo forest, or a mysterious crescent moon stirring
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| Photo Akio Nishimoto |
feelings within us of the mysterious and profound nature of our existence.
We hope the voices of ancient Yamato may reach you wherever you are and the spirit of Yamato, Yamatodamashi will inspire your heart to live and love to its fullest!
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