7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Partaking in a Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto's Gion District

Stepping into Kyoto's Gion district for a traditional tea ceremony is a journey into Japan's soul. The ceremony, usually held within buildings showcasing traditional wooden architecture, offers a captivating glimpse into a centuries-old art form. The experience, which typically unfolds over about 45 minutes, often includes the chance to wear a kimono, adding to the atmosphere of historical authenticity. For a small cost, participants can witness the graceful ritual of matcha preparation. This age-old practice, rooted in the principles of sado, emphasizes mindfulness and the subtle nuances of each moment. The scarcity of active geisha and maiko in Gion adds a layer of mystique, reminding us that these traditions are fragile and should be treasured. The setting, often a preserved 'machiya,' reinforces this sense of history, providing a serene escape from the fast-paced world. By participating in this ritual, travelers gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and its profound appreciation for quiet contemplation and the ephemeral nature of beauty.

Stepping into the heart of Kyoto's Gion district for a traditional tea ceremony offers a unique lens into Japanese culture. Gion, renowned as a geisha district with its charming, traditional wooden buildings and lantern-lit streets, provides an atmospheric setting for this ancient practice. While many may associate it with the elaborate rituals associated with geishas, one can also find more accessible tea ceremony experiences, like those offered by MAIKOYA, housed in a historic "machiya." These experiences typically last around 45 minutes, offering an introduction to the ceremony and often paired with the opportunity to wear a kimono.

The cost of participation, including kimono rental, is quite reasonable, making this activity feasible for many travelers. While MAIKOYA offers tea ceremony experiences throughout the day, geisha tea ceremonies, a much rarer and more involved affair, occur only once daily. It's worth noting that, despite Gion being the epicenter of geisha culture in Japan, the actual number of geishas and their apprentices (maiko) is surprisingly small, with roughly 70 and 30, respectively, actively practicing in the area.

The tea ceremony, known as "sado," "chado," or "chanoyu," is rooted in Buddhist principles, centered around the preparation and serving of powdered matcha green tea. Central to this practice is the concept of "ichi go ichi e," which translates to "one time, one meeting," stressing the preciousness of each moment. Matcha, the vibrant green tea used, is made from finely ground tea leaves and its unique flavor profile has, for centuries, been inextricably linked to this ritual. While the experience of partaking in a geisha tea ceremony can be incredibly special, there's a fascinating dichotomy between the immense cultural weight that comes with it and the actual feasibility and cost for tourists.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Partaking in a Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto's Gion District
2. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Experiencing a Sumo Tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo
3. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Staying at a Ryokan with Private Onsen in Hakone
4. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Attending the Gion Matsuri Festival in July
5. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Learning the Art of Kintsugi at a Workshop in Kanazawa
6. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Exploring the Digital Art Exhibits at teamLab Borderless in Tokyo
7. 7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Dining at a Michelin-starred Kaiseki Restaurant in Osaka

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Experiencing a Sumo Tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo

Attending a sumo wrestling tournament at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan offers a captivating glimpse into a uniquely Japanese sporting tradition. The Kokugikan, built in 1985, serves as the main arena for three of the six annual sumo tournaments held across Japan. With a capacity exceeding 10,000, these events attract fervent fans eager to witness the powerful athleticism and cultural rituals associated with sumo.

Tickets are available for purchase several weeks before each tournament, but securing seats can be challenging due to the sport's popularity. Fortunately, the arena provides a variety of seating options, such as traditional box seats (masu seki) which comfortably accommodate small groups on tatami mats, or individual arena seats for those traveling solo.

Sumo wrestling, with roots stretching back over 1,500 years to Shinto rituals, holds a revered place in Japanese culture. It's considered the world's oldest organized sport and continues to capture the imagination of many. At the Ryogoku Kokugikan, the experience extends beyond the matches themselves. There's a fascinating museum dedicated to the sport's history and traditions, available for visits on weekdays. For a truly unforgettable cultural moment, consider looking for the 'Isshin Nakizumo' event. This unusual ritual, held at various temples and shrines (including the famous Sensoji Temple), sees sumo wrestlers holding babies until one starts to cry.

The Ryogoku district itself is also a hub for sumo. Several sumo stables are located nearby, providing a chance to watch wrestlers train. This provides a more in-depth understanding of the strenuous daily routine and the dedication required to achieve success in this demanding sport. Ultimately, a visit to the Ryogoku Kokugikan allows you to delve deeper into a sport interwoven with Japanese culture and history, creating a memorable and distinctly Japanese travel experience.

The Ryogoku Kokugikan, Tokyo's main sumo wrestling arena, opened in 1985 and can host over 10,000 spectators. It's a testament to sumo's importance in Japan. Six major tournaments, called "basho," are held yearly across the country, with three in Tokyo during January, May, and September.

Securing tickets for a sumo tournament is a bit of a challenge. Tickets are generally released 4 to 6 weeks ahead, but last-minute tickets can be found, though the demand is typically high. You have options, such as box seats (masu seki) for groups of four to six, or individual arena seats if you're flying solo. The 2024 tournament schedules are a good starting point to plan your visit. The January tournament was held from the 14th to the 28th, the May tournament was from the 12th to the 26th, and the September tournament ran from the 8th to the 22nd.

Sumo, believed to be the oldest organized sport in the world, is rooted in ancient Shinto religious rituals performed at shrines. It has an incredible history spanning over 1,500 years. There is even a cultural ritual called "Isshin Nakizumo" where sumo wrestlers hold babies until one cries. You can sometimes observe this at shrines like the Sensoji Temple, which adds another layer to the whole sumo scene.

The Kokugikan is also home to a sumo museum that delves into the history and intricacies of this sport and is open on weekdays. The experience of attending a tournament goes beyond just watching the matches. It's an opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions, and you can learn more with professional guides. Many sumo stables are concentrated around the Ryogoku Kokugikan, which provides a chance to see the training sessions and gain deeper insights into the rigorous training these athletes undergo.

Sumo is an fascinating cultural tradition that merges religious elements with athletic prowess. Attending a tournament offers a great perspective into this intriguing facet of Japanese culture.

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Staying at a Ryokan with Private Onsen in Hakone

Immersing yourself in the tranquility of a Hakone ryokan with a private onsen is an experience that truly encapsulates the essence of Japanese hospitality and natural beauty. These traditional Japanese inns, such as the highly regarded Gora Kadan and Yaeikan, strike a harmonious balance between age-old aesthetics and modern comfort. Guests are often treated to a level of personalized service often referred to as "omotenashi".

The main draw of these ryokans is their private onsen, where you can unwind in the soothing hot springs while surrounded by the scenic splendor of Hakone. Picture yourself soaking in mineral-rich waters while enjoying picturesque views of Lake Ashi or Mount Fuji, depending on the location of your chosen ryokan.

The price for such a tranquil stay varies depending on the specific features and location, with many options offering a range of prices to fit the needs of most travelers. You can opt for a more intimate setting that truly emphasizes relaxation, or select a ryokan with more elaborate amenities. No matter your preference, Hakone offers the chance to experience a unique side of Japanese culture while luxuriating in natural hot springs, which is a defining characteristic of this travel destination. It's no wonder that these experiences are something that lingers in the memories of those who venture there.

Staying at a ryokan with a private onsen in Hakone offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese hospitality and modern comforts. Hakone, renowned for its hot springs, stunning views of Lake Ashinoko, and proximity to Mount Fuji, makes it a popular destination for travelers seeking a tranquil escape. Ryokans, or traditional Japanese inns, have a long history, dating back to the Edo period when they were essential stopovers for travelers along Japan's historic routes.

The appeal of a private onsen within a ryokan stems from a growing desire for personalized experiences. It's become increasingly popular to have one's own private bathing space, a trend that has seen more and more ryokans in Hakone offering this amenity. The mineral composition of the onsen water can differ greatly depending on the spring source, with some having higher concentrations of sulfur, sodium, or magnesium, which each may have varying effects on the body.

The design of a traditional ryokan is often quite distinct. Tatami mats, shoji screens, and wooden beams are frequently incorporated into their architectural style. These elements offer more than just aesthetics, for example, tatami mats contribute to the tranquility of a room with their ability to absorb sound. While a traditional aesthetic dominates many ryokans, others are integrating more modern technology like automated onsen temperature control or digital menus. This demonstrates a delicate balance between preserving tradition and offering features appreciated by modern travelers.

Finding a ryokan that suits your needs can be a matter of careful selection. Options in Hakone range from the well-respected Yaeikan, known for its hospitality, to the luxurious Gora Kadan, widely considered to be the best in the area, each catering to different traveler preferences. Hakone Ashinoko Hanaori, with its modern design and beautiful lake views, offers an alternative to more traditional styles. Others, such as Hakone Tokinoshizuku or Suiun, focus on relaxation with an emphasis on tranquility or a more comprehensive spa experience.

While the appeal of soaking in a hot spring is largely driven by the restorative effects of the mineral-rich water, it also incorporates a strong cultural component. It's common for ryokans to incorporate meditation or mindfulness exercises into the onsen experience, creating a holistic approach to wellness. While this aspect might not be widely advertised, it highlights the deep connection between the onsen experience and traditional cultural practices. The cost of a stay can be variable, typically starting around 329 USD and going upwards to 585 USD for a ryokan with a private onsen. The diversity of choices available in Hakone makes it a prime destination for travelers looking for a culturally immersive experience within a beautiful natural setting.

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Attending the Gion Matsuri Festival in July

Visiting Kyoto in July to witness the Gion Matsuri festival is a remarkable journey into Japan's deep cultural roots, dating back to the year 869. It's considered one of Japan's three most significant festivals and takes place throughout the entire month, reaching a peak on July 17th with the Yamahoko Junko procession. This stunning spectacle involves massive, intricately designed floats that parade through the city, embodying the artistic brilliance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Wood and rope, not nails or screws, are the building materials of these floats which can be 25 meters tall and weigh 12,000 kilograms. The mayor of Kyoto presides over a lottery on July 2nd that determines the procession order of these beautiful structures.

Beyond the elaborate procession, the Gion Matsuri showcases a rich tapestry of traditional Japanese art forms including intricate textiles, beautiful paintings, delicate metalwork, masterful wood carvings, graceful dances, compelling theater performances, the serene beauty of ikebana flower arrangements and the ritual of tea ceremonies. The sound of Kane bells played by Hayashi musicians provides a memorable and distinct aural backdrop to the event.

The festival also acts as a reminder of the city's strength and cultural heritage. While facing challenges, the spirit of the Gion Matsuri remains strong, demonstrating the cultural significance and deep community ties of this historic festival. If you're looking for a uniquely Japanese experience and a compelling reason to revisit Japan, the Gion Matsuri is a powerful demonstration of a tradition that combines history with celebration.

### Attending the Gion Matsuri Festival in July

The Gion Matsuri, held annually in Kyoto throughout July, boasts a history stretching back to 869, making it one of Japan's oldest festivals. Its origins lie in a purification ritual aimed at appeasing deities believed to cause illness, highlighting its deeply rooted spiritual and historical significance. The festival culminates with the Yamahoko Junko parade on July 17th, where 24 elaborate floats, known as Yamaboko, are paraded through the streets.

These towering floats, crafted entirely from wood and rope, showcase impressive engineering, reaching heights of up to 25 meters and weighing a staggering 12,000 kilograms. Each float is painstakingly adorned with intricate designs, a testament to the skills of local artisans across various disciplines – carpentry, textile work, painting, and more. They represent a fascinating blend of traditional craftsmanship and artistic expression.

Interestingly, the order of the floats in the parade is determined by the Kujitorishiki lottery, presided over by the mayor of Kyoto on July 2nd. The lottery results add an element of chance to the procession's order, making each year's festival unique.

The Gion Matsuri is not simply a parade; it's a vibrant celebration of traditional Japanese culture in its entirety. You'll find an array of traditional art forms on display, from textiles and wood carving to metalwork and dance. The rhythmic sounds of Kane bells played by Hayashi musicians add a distinctive auditory layer to the festivities.

Beyond the grand processions, the streets of Kyoto transform into bustling marketplaces during the Gion Matsuri. Vendors sell traditional Japanese food, from classic dishes to sweet treats like yatsuhashi, a local delicacy. This creates a vibrant atmosphere and offers a great opportunity to experience the local cuisine.

The festival has also gained international attention, attracting visitors from around the world eager to witness the splendor of the floats and immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture. The increase in global interest highlights the appeal of this ancient tradition in a modern world.

One shouldn't underestimate the influence of cultural expectations during the festival. Many attendees opt to dress in yukata, a lighter, summer kimono, adding to the overall aesthetic and showing respect for the occasion.

Furthermore, the Gion Matsuri is closely linked to the Heian Shrine, which serves as the focal point for some of the festival's rituals and processions. This underscores the religious and spiritual underpinnings of the festival.

It's important for travelers to consider the timing of their visit, as the peak events occur in the middle and latter part of July. The surge in attendance can naturally impact hotel prices and flights, and it’s worth researching flight and accommodation options well in advance.

The Gion Matsuri offers a rich experience for anyone wanting to explore the layers of Japanese cultural heritage and traditions. It represents resilience and community pride in a way that continues to attract people from around the globe.

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Learning the Art of Kintsugi at a Workshop in Kanazawa

Kanazawa provides a chance to learn the Japanese art of Kintsugi, a fascinating way of mending broken pottery with gold or metal-infused lacquer. Kintsugi workshops are offered in the city, and experienced craftspeople guide participants through the art of meticulously repairing broken ceramics. These workshops range from single-day introductory sessions to multi-day, in-depth programs, catering to diverse levels of interest. Beyond just acquiring practical skills, these classes offer a deeper understanding of Kintsugi's philosophy. This traditional practice emphasizes celebrating the imperfections of objects, reflecting a broader theme of resilience and beauty found in many Japanese art forms. Kintsugi also promotes the reuse of materials, making it a sustainable art form that resonates with travelers who value both craftsmanship and environmental awareness. The art of Kintsugi, then, allows visitors to explore a deeply ingrained element of Japanese culture and aesthetics, offering a distinct experience that many visitors find memorable and enriching.

Learning the art of Kintsugi at a workshop in Kanazawa offers a unique cultural experience, delving into a centuries-old Japanese tradition. Kintsugi, meaning "golden joinery", involves meticulously repairing broken pottery with a lacquer mixed with gold or silver powder, rather than concealing the damage. This practice, born in the 15th century, primarily as a means of restoring tea ceremony vessels, has evolved into a celebrated art form reflecting the Japanese appreciation for embracing imperfections as part of a piece's history and beauty.

In Kanazawa, visitors can partake in hands-on workshops led by experienced artisans, such as Showzi Tsukamoto, a Kintsugi master since 1972. These workshops, available in various durations, offer a deep dive into Kintsugi, covering both the traditional technique and its underlying philosophy. Workshop lengths range from short single-day sessions for beginners to intensive masterclasses spanning 6 or 12 days for more serious students.

From a scientific lens, the chemistry of Kintsugi is quite intriguing. The core ingredient of the lacquer is urushi, a sap from the lacquer tree. Urushi, however, also contains urushiol, the same chemical that causes allergic reactions in many individuals, something similar to poison ivy. Understanding the properties of these materials is crucial for Kintsugi practitioners as it ensures that the repaired ceramic will hold up over time.

Interestingly, studies in aesthetics suggest the human eye often finds the repaired, Kintsugi-enhanced ceramics more aesthetically pleasing than unbroken counterparts. This likely stems from the enhanced visual impact the gold or silver lines contribute to the design of the piece, but also due to the intriguing stories these items carry after being repaired.

Beyond the visual appeal, Kintsugi adheres to the concepts of sustainability and resilience. It fosters a mindful approach to the reuse and repair of broken items, aligning with the Japanese principles of wabi-sabi, which find beauty in imperfection and impermanence. The time-consuming process of repair – typically taking at least a month to fully dry – underscores the importance of patience and meticulous craftsmanship inherent in this ancient practice.


Kintsugi's popularity has extended beyond Japan, gaining global recognition as a symbol of resilience, and it serves as an interesting window into Japanese cultural values. It has fostered renewed interest in traditional crafts and artistry, appealing to a generation yearning for a deeper connection to authentic crafts. The increasing international awareness of Kintsugi, along with its market value—often exceeding the value of unbroken ceramics—indicates a shift in the way we view value and craftsmanship in our modern world. This is particularly interesting in our time of increasingly ubiquitous mass production.

Kanazawa, already renowned for its various traditional crafts, benefits from its strong Kintsugi community and the availability of skilled practitioners who share their expertise in the workshops. It's an opportunity for travelers to learn about a time-honored tradition that promotes a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship, sustainability, and the acceptance of imperfections in ourselves and the objects that surround us. Kintsugi in Kanazawa exemplifies Japan's strong tradition of fostering creativity, innovation and sustainability.

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Exploring the Digital Art Exhibits at teamLab Borderless in Tokyo

TeamLab Borderless in Tokyo is a digital art museum unlike any other, a place where technology and artistic expression seamlessly intertwine. The museum's sprawling, maze-like layout, covering 10,000 square meters, encourages exploration without a set path or map. The exhibitions are constantly changing and evolving, emphasizing concepts like impermanence and how things are connected. The artwork interacts with visitors, creating an incredibly immersive experience.

In February 2024, TeamLab Borderless moved to a new location in Azabudai Hills, close to Roppongi. This relocation brought two brand new art exhibits, while also keeping some popular pieces from its original home in Odaiba. The museum pushes the boundaries of what art and exhibition spaces can be with digital technology. It aims to fundamentally alter how we view contemporary art and challenges our understanding of conventional gallery settings. If you're interested in experiencing cutting-edge artistic expression, TeamLab Borderless is a must-see, but be sure to book your tickets ahead of time, as it's become a popular destination.

TeamLab Borderless, a digital art museum in Tokyo's Azabudai Hills, presents a captivating blend of art and technology that challenges traditional exhibition spaces. Originally located in Odaiba, its February 2024 relocation brought with it two completely new exhibitions alongside crowd favorites. The expansive 10,000 square meter space, designed as a maze-like labyrinth, encourages free exploration without a set route or map.

The museum is typically open from 10 am to 7 pm on weekdays and extends to 9 pm on weekends and holidays, but closes on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Visitors are strongly encouraged to buy tickets beforehand, given its rising popularity.


The core of TeamLab's approach is projection mapping. This enables dynamic and interactive installations. A visitor's movement within the space can directly influence the displayed art, changing the overall impression for everyone else in real-time. This is coupled with the principles of spatial computing, meaning the exhibits react based on a visitor's position within the space. Some exhibits also incorporate real-time data like weather or environmental data into the visual outputs, constantly evolving the artwork's look and feel.


The term "Borderless" speaks to the museum's ethos. It signifies a blurring of boundaries between different artworks and encourages visitors to find their own personal connections with the exhibited art. It also challenges conventional museum design, moving beyond fixed installations and static artwork towards something more dynamic.


Color is used as a core element of design, often impacting the emotional response of the visitor. Sound also plays a crucial role, enriching the experience with a multi-sensory environment that borders on synesthesia. In contrast to typical museums with predetermined paths, the museum offers a non-linear narrative, where every visitor shapes their own experience and story through the exhibits.


TeamLab also promotes collaboration between visitors through installations where interaction creates a shared experience, emphasizing collective creativity. While innovative, the museum's adoption of blockchain technology for some artwork creation and presentation as NFTs is an intriguing twist. The digital art form even attracted international attention, with potential expansion plans discussed for other cities, highlighting the universality of the art form and its technology.

The museum fundamentally challenges traditional perceptions of art exhibitions and provides an intriguing fusion of technology and artistry. While the immersive and interactive approach holds significant appeal, its success remains to be seen in the longer term. The concept is ambitious, and the art's impact on the broader art world will require continued observation and analysis. It is certainly worth a visit for anyone interested in the convergence of art and technology.

7 Unique Cultural Experiences That Keep Travelers Returning to Japan - Dining at a Michelin-starred Kaiseki Restaurant in Osaka

Osaka's Michelin-starred Kaiseki restaurants offer a unique and refined dining experience, a true testament to Japan's rich culinary heritage. Restaurants like Oimatsu Kitagawa, with its intimate 8-seat counter and private room, and Kashiwaya Osaka Senriyama, nestled within a tranquil Japanese garden, exemplify the artistic approach to food in Kaiseki. The focus is on seasonal ingredients – fresh seafood, local produce, and meticulous presentation, emphasizing natural flavors and textures. These multi-course meals are an evolving celebration of Japan's seasonal bounty, where each dish is crafted with precision and beauty.

However, the coveted experience of dining at these establishments often comes with a challenge: securing a reservation. Their exclusivity and popularity make bookings a coveted endeavor, requiring advance planning and a touch of luck. Yet, for those who succeed, the rewards are extraordinary. A Kaiseki meal offers a holistic journey through Japanese cuisine, where the preparation and presentation are as important as the flavors themselves, highlighting a deep connection to both nature and cultural traditions. In essence, it's an experience that captures the very essence of Japanese gastronomy, and one that many food lovers find both unforgettable and culturally significant.

Dining in Osaka's Michelin-starred Kaiseki restaurants provides a glimpse into a refined and nuanced culinary tradition. The experience centers on Omakase menus, multi-course meals crafted by highly skilled chefs, often with years of training at esteemed institutions like Gion Sasaki. Oimatsu Kitagawa, for example, with its eight-seat counter and exclusive private room, exemplifies the intimate and precise nature of this style of dining.

The foundation of Kaiseki lies in using seasonal ingredients at their peak. Chefs meticulously select fresh seafood, vegetables, and other components, with dishes often changing to align with the four distinct seasons of Japan. This approach emphasizes the natural flavor profiles of the chosen foods and is a testament to a deep appreciation for the natural world and its cyclical rhythm. Kashiwaya Osaka Senriyama, a three-Michelin-star establishment tucked within a serene Japanese garden, epitomizes this connection with the environment and its reflection in the culinary experience.


Presentation, however, is not merely aesthetic but integral to the culinary experience. The dishes are artfully arranged to maximize visual harmony and appeal. It's not unlike seeing a carefully designed mechanical system where each component contributes to the overall elegance and functionality. It's a captivating interplay of visual and flavor elements that engages all the senses.

It's not just about what's served but how it's served. Temperature plays a key role. Some vegetables might be warmed to enhance their natural sweetness, others are chilled for optimal crispness. Each detail, seemingly small, influences the sensory impact, much like adjustments in a complex engineered system where every minor change can lead to a different outcome.

The use of traditional Japanese tools and techniques also enhances the experience. Chefs often utilize ancient kitchenware, from hangyoku ceramic hot plates to tsukibiki slicing knives, showcasing a lineage of culinary practice passed down through generations. The refinement of these tools over centuries speaks to a deep understanding of material science and optimized design, much like the development of specific tools for complex engineering tasks.

Finally, the ambiance of these establishments is as carefully crafted as the meals they serve. Restaurants like Ajikitcho Bunbuan & Horie often feature natural light, minimalistic aesthetics, and traditional decor, offering a calming atmosphere that complements the dining experience. These restaurants blend aspects of architecture and interior design with their culinary philosophy, creating a unique experience that’s comparable to a well-engineered product or service in its ability to immerse and engage the user.

Kaiseki cuisine, with its roots in the Edo period, embodies a meticulous approach to food and hospitality that has evolved and continues to be appreciated for its deep understanding of ingredients, skillful techniques, and emphasis on harmony and balance. Osaka, as a major culinary hub in Japan, has fostered a rich cultural context that keeps visitors returning, wanting to uncover these hidden pockets of culinary mastery and precision.