By Zeng Yi

On July 24, 2013, Professor He Bin was invited by the SFL to iave a lecture on folk culture of Japan in Liyun A102.

Professor He illustrated Japanese culture in three aspects: the change of calendar, the meaning of numbers and the relationship between color and culture. She told us that the development of astronomy in Japan was not as advanced as ancient China. However, Japan learned a lot from China and made good use of it. The Japanese government had tried to lead the whole nation into modern countries like some western countries since 1868. Besides, the lunar calendar was changed into new calendar according to the specific day. Regarding the personal preference in color, the majority of Japanese prefer light colors. Therefore, few Japanese people wear clothes in red or purple in daily life. Professor He explained that because purple representes the noble and authority, which can only be used in officials'''' dressing. Moreover, since the government came up with strict laws about the color and texture of the clothes, citizens paid more attention to some sensitive colors. In Japan, red and white represent joy, while black stands for sadness on many occasions. Then, Professor He introduced the differences in numbers between Japan and China. Unlike in China, 9 is not a lucky number in Japan, and there are disparate meanings about numbers in many Japanese proverbs. At last, Mr, Yamata, Professor He''''s husband, helped organized an entertaining game with students.

Many students raised their questions, and Professor He answered them with great patience. The speech was ended with joy.