Listening
Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- miniature / ˈmɪn i ə tʃər / (adj.) – very small in size
Example:The artist made a miniature model of the famous temple.
- replica / ˈrɛp lɪ kə / (n.) – a copy of something that is made to look exactly like the original
Example:The thieves stole a replica, thinking it was the real painting.
- faithfully / ˈfeɪθ fə li / (adv.) – in a way that shows accuracy, care, and loyalty
Example:The artist faithfully followed the original design.
- enshrine / ɛnˈʃraɪn / (v.) – to place or keep and protect something sacred or important in a special place
Example:The museum has a glass case enshrining ancient vases and statues.
- talisman / ˈtæl ɪs mən / (n.) – an object believed to have magic power or something that brings good luck and protection to the person who carries or keeps it
Example:In some cultures, talismans are given as gifts to bring good health and happiness.
Article
Read the text below.
In Japan’s spiritual heartland, tradition meets craftsmanship in miniature form. Artisans in Ise are preserving centuries-old shrine-making by handcrafting sacred replicas for modern homes.
At the family-run factory Miyachu, the craftsmen produce Ise no Shinden—miniature shrines that faithfully replicate the main sanctuary of Ise Jingu, known for its unique construction technique called Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri.
Its simple architectural design is said to have originated from ancient raised-floor granaries. The wooden structure is built with Hinoki cypress trees without using any nails, employing a traditional joinery method. Another distinguishing feature is a thatched roof made of Susuki grass, which craftsmen at Miyachu carefully hand-prune using a pair of shears.
Miniature shrines are often made to be used as kamidana—small altars enshrining Shinto deities that are commonly found inside Japanese homes or shops. Typically hung high on a wall, the altar often consists of various religious objects and offerings together with a small-scale shrine and is used as part of daily worship.
The making of miniature Ise shrines dates back to the Edo period (1600–1868), when Ise Jingu was a major pilgrimage destination.
“Many people came to Ise to worship and to receive sacred talismans or ofuda. Naturally, this created a need for kamidana—household altars to enshrine the ofuda. That’s when the kamidana we make today began to spread across the country,” explained Yosuke Kawanishi, the third-generation head of his family business Miyachu.
But like many other traditional crafts, Miyachu faces the challenge of a possible drop in demand as traditional customs fade.
To survive, the company is trying to appeal to younger generations by producing a new line of kamidana shrines with a modern twist.
Their latest designs are minimalist but retain the key features of Ise Shrine, such as a thatched roof.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Miyachu is making modern-style shrines to attract younger people. Do you think it’s a good idea to change traditional things to match modern tastes? Why or why not? Why do you think it’s necessary to make traditional customs appealing to younger people? Discuss.
- Some traditional crafts are disappearing as fewer young people follow old traditions. What are some good ways to keep traditional skills and culture alive today? Should they be taught in schools, shared on social media, or something else? What do you think would help most? Discuss.
Discussion B
- Miyachu is a family-run business, now in its third generation. In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of working with family? Discuss.
- Some people want to work for or continue their family’s business, while others want to choose something completely different. If your parents or grandparents had a business, would you continue it or start something new? Why? Discuss.