New Life in Japan & Entrance Ceremony ~April is the Beginning~

In Japan, April is considered the "month of new starts."
The school and company fiscal year begins in April.
This custom may be a little surprising for foreigners living in Japan. In this article, I will introduce you to Japan's "new life" and "entrance ceremonies."

【【Why does Japan start in April?】

In Japan, the new school and business fiscal year begins on April 1st.
This originates from the fact that the fiscal year was unified from April to March during the Meiji period (1873). From then on, the school year also began to start in April, and the new fiscal year for companies also began to follow this pattern.

【【What is a Japanese entrance ceremony like?】

In Japan, the entrance ceremony is held in April when the new school year begins.
This is a uniquely Japanese culture that is practiced not only in elementary schools, junior high schools, high schools, and universities, but also in some vocational schools and corporate training sessions.

【【Characteristics of the Entrance Ceremony】

• Since it coincides with cherry blossom season, it's customary to take photos under the cherry blossoms in full bloom after the entrance ceremony!
• A special day to wear a new uniform and suit.
• The ceremony will feature speeches from the principal and guests, a speech by a representative of the new students, and the singing of the school song.
• This is an important event in which families join together to celebrate a child's new beginning.

【【April is also the start of your working life!】

In Japan, April 1st is also the start of the new company fiscal year, so many new employees start work on this day.

【【Japanese "Induction Ceremony"】

• Many companies hold "entrance ceremonies" where the president or executives give speeches and introduce the new employees.
• New employees undergo training together with their peers and learn business etiquette and company rules.
• More and more new employees are riding crowded trains for the first time, making rush hour commutes even more intense.

【【The start of a new life!】

April is an important time for both students and working adults to get used to their new environment.

• With an increase in people moving and purchasing furniture and home appliances, electronics retailers and furniture stores are bustling.
• More and more new employees are commuting on packed trains for the first time, making the trains even more crowded.
• It's a time when you'll meet new friends and colleagues, and although it may be a little nerve-wracking at first, it's also an exciting time!

April is a time when many people feel anxious and tense, but it is also a season when people meet new friends and associates and feel excited about starting a new life.
April is a special month in Japan, as people take new steps amid beautiful cherry blossom scenery!