JAPANESE CULTURE BLOG
Hanabi (花火)
If cherry blossom symbolise spring in Japan, then fireworks, or hanabi (花火), signal the hot, humid summers. Learn about the popular hanabi taikai that draw thousands of spectactors every July...
Hanabi (花火)
If cherry blossom symbolise spring in Japan, then fireworks, or hanabi (花火), signal the hot, humid summers. Learn about the popular hanabi taikai that draw thousands of spectactors every July...
Sotsugyō-shiki (卒業式)
This can be a sad but exciting time for many young people in Japan, as it's when the academic year ends. Known as sotsugyō-shiki (卒業式), Japanese graduation ceremonies can be...
Sotsugyō-shiki (卒業式)
This can be a sad but exciting time for many young people in Japan, as it's when the academic year ends. Known as sotsugyō-shiki (卒業式), Japanese graduation ceremonies can be...
Hinamatsuri (雛祭り)
On 3 March Japan will mark Hinamatsuri, or “Dolls’ Festival”, where the health and happiness of girls will be commemorated. Also known as Dolls’ Day or Girls’ Day, Hinamatsuri is...
Hinamatsuri (雛祭り)
On 3 March Japan will mark Hinamatsuri, or “Dolls’ Festival”, where the health and happiness of girls will be commemorated. Also known as Dolls’ Day or Girls’ Day, Hinamatsuri is...
New Year in Japan - Otoshidama (お年玉）
The most exciting Oshōgatsu (“New Year”) tradition for school-age children in Japan is the custom of receiving otoshidama (New Year money) from their close elders, in a show of appreciation and good wishes. Presented...
New Year in Japan - Otoshidama (お年玉）
The most exciting Oshōgatsu (“New Year”) tradition for school-age children in Japan is the custom of receiving otoshidama (New Year money) from their close elders, in a show of appreciation and good wishes. Presented...
New Year in Japan - Hatsumōde (初詣)
One of Japan’s most culturally important traditions, hatsumōde sees people visit a Shinto (or Buddhist) jingu (shrine) and otera (temple) to make a small offering and pray for good luck in the new year (Oshōgatsu). Most...
New Year in Japan - Hatsumōde (初詣)
One of Japan’s most culturally important traditions, hatsumōde sees people visit a Shinto (or Buddhist) jingu (shrine) and otera (temple) to make a small offering and pray for good luck in the new year (Oshōgatsu). Most...