Dr. Goto to Present ‘Stars in the Land of the Rising Sun’

Dr. Akira Gota, a Professor of Anthropology at Nanzan University in Japan, will present a talk at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center that takes a look at Japanese star lore as a complex mixture of animism, Buddhism, Shinto-isn, Confucianism, and folk beliefs.

The talk, titled “Stars in the Land of the Rising Sun,” will take place on Friday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m.

During the presentation, Dr. Goto will discuss a range of topics, including: the practical use of star lore by Japanese farmers and fishermen, folk customs and rituals surround stars, and legends of fallen stars and historical interpretations.

Dr. Goto is a graduate of the University of Hawai’i at Manoa. He helped to develop content for the Oceanic Culture Museum & Planetarium in Okinawa.

In addition, Dr. Goto authored a variety of materials on ethnoarchaeology and the intersection between astronomy and anthropology. He also served as the Vice President of the Nippon Voyaging Association.

Interested attendees can purchase tickets in advance at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center front desk, or by phone by calling 969-9703.

Tickets are $10 for non-members and $8 for members.