Language & NuanceSakura and Schools in Japan
Introduction: Waiting for Spring in JapanLate January and early February are the coldest weeks of the year in Japan. Hea...
Seasons & Traditions
Language & Nuance
Seasons & TraditionsBo-Nen-Kai（忘年会）: Japan’s Year-End Party to Forget the Year
Learn what a Bonenkai is, why Japanese people celebrate it, and how this year-end tradition began. A simple guide to Japan’s unique “forget-the-year” party culture.
Religion & RitualsJanuary 1st and the Beginning of the Year – The Japanese Spirit Reflected in the New Year’s Days
Explore Japanese New Year customs including Hatsu-Moude, Kito, Omamori, Osechi-Ryori, and traditional ceremonies, revealing the spiritual heart of Japan.
Religion & RitualsCustoms and Rituals at the End of the Year – Japanese Hearts Reflected There
December in Japan is full of traditional customs to welcome the New Year — from house cleaning and writing New Year’s cards to visiting temples and enjoying warm meals. Discover how Japanese people end the year with gratitude and preparation for a fresh start.
Places & JourneysKoyo (紅葉): Autumn Foliage and the Spirit of Japanese Aesthetics
Discover the beauty of autumn leaves in Japan, where vibrant momiji reflect the Japanese sense of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life.
Religion & Rituals“Shichi-Go-San” 七五三 : Celebration Ritual for Children
Shichi-Go-San (七五三) is a Japanese traditional celebration for children aged three, five, and seven. Families visit shrines or temples, pray for health, dress children in kimono, and take photos. Discover the rituals, history, and how even foreign visitors can experience it in Japan.
Seasons & TraditionsSummer in Japan: Beauty, Heat, and the Risk of Heatstroke
Japan’s summer is beautiful but extremely hot and humid. Learn about heatstroke (熱中症), prevention tips, emergency advice, and safe destinations to enjoy your trip during July and August.
Seasons & TraditionsJapan from October to December – Traditions and Celebrations
Discover Japanese winter traditions from October to December, including Sports Day, autumn leaves, Shichi-Go-San, winter solstice rituals, Christmas, Shigoto-osame, and Ōsōji.
Seasons & TraditionsJapan from July to September – Traditions and Memories
Discover Japanese traditions and seasonal events from July to September — from mountain-opening rituals and Tanabata wishes to Obon, Peace Memorial Days, eel on Doyo-no-Ushi, and the Autumn Higan. A journey into Japan’s culture and seasonal life.
Seasons & TraditionsJapan from April to June – Traditions and Observances
Discover Japan’s summer traditions from April to June, including school and company entrance ceremonies, Hana-matsuri (Buddha’s birthday), Children’s Day with koi-nobori, and the rainy season Tsuyu. Learn about Japanese customs and seasonal life.