Japanese Culture

Do you know about the traditional Japanese event called "Shichigosan"? Every year around November 15th, small children in Japan dress up in kimonos and visit shrines. It is a day to give thanks to the gods for the children's growth and pray for their future health and happiness. [What kind of event is Shichigosan?] "Shichigosan" is a traditional Japanese event for children aged 7, 5, and 3.

September is the season when the autumn sky is clear and the moon is beautiful. In 2025, Jugoya (the 15th night of the full moon) will be on September 29th. It is an event that has been loved by people since ancient times, and the custom of enjoying the moon continues in many households today. [Difference between Jugoya and the Harvest Moon] Although they are often used interchangeably, there is actually a slight difference. Jugoya (the 15th night of the full moon):

Do you know about Respect for the Aged Day? In Japan, the third Monday of September every year is Respect for the Aged Day. This day is considered to be a day to respect and express gratitude to the elderly who have worked hard for society and their families for a long time. Grandparents are very important to Japanese people. [The origin of Respect for the Aged Day

In the summer, you can often see people walking around Japanese towns and festivals wearing yukatas. Yukatas are traditional Japanese summer clothing. They are more casual and easier to wear than kimonos, so they have recently become popular with many foreign tourists. [What kind of clothing is a yukata?] 〇 They are worn by cinching the waist with a piece of fabric called an obi. 〇 They are made of light and breathable materials such as cotton or linen.

Have you ever heard the term "homecoming rush" in the Japanese news? The reason why Japanese people return to their hometowns en masse during this time of year when bullet trains, airplanes, and highways are extremely crowded is related to a special time called "Obon." Obon is a time when it is believed that the spirits of deceased ancestors return to this world.

When you think of summer in Japan, you think of fireworks displays and festivals. Large flowers spreading across the night sky, people wearing yukata, and bustling food stalls. These uniquely Japanese summer scenes are attracting attention from foreign tourists too. What is a fireworks display? Japanese fireworks displays are not just "firework shows." They are held to coincide with local traditional events and the Obon period.

Have you ever seen colorful paper hanging from bamboo in July in Japan? That is a scene from the traditional Japanese festival called "Tanabata". But why do people write their wishes on paper and hang them on bamboo? Today, I will explain the charm and meaning of Tanabata in an easy-to-understand way. [What is Tanabata?] Tanabata is celebrated on July 7th.

Do you know how Japanese tea is made? In fact, spring is the season when tea making begins. In particular, from late April to early May, the freshest tea of the year, known as "shincha," is picked. Today, we will introduce you to one of Japan's traditional spring events, the "tea picking experience." [What is tea picking?] "Tea

In Japan, April is considered the "month of new starts." The fiscal year for schools and companies begins in April. This custom may be a little surprising for foreigners living in Japan. In this article, we will introduce Japan's "new life" and "entrance ceremonies." [Why does Japan start in April?] In Japan, the new school and company fiscal year begins on April 1st.

The spring season, when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, is a special season for Japanese people. It is also a beautiful culture unique to Japan that makes foreigners want to experience it at least once. This time, we will tell you all about the charms of cherry blossoms and cherry blossom viewing culture! [The deep relationship between Japanese people and cherry blossoms] Japan has four seasons, but spring is an especially special season. Cherry blossoms have long been a symbol of "new life."