What is national foundation day ? National Foundation Day (建国記念の日、 Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is a public holiday in Japan celebrated annually on February 11th. It commemorates the founding of Japan as a nation and marks the mythical ascension of Emperor Jimmu (神武天皇) , Japan’s first emperor, to the throne in 660 BCE. Historical background […]
What is Setsubun ? Setsubun (節分) is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated every year on February 3rd (or sometimes February 4th), marking the day before the start of spring according to the lunar calendar. The term Setsubun literally translates to “seasonal division,” symbolizing the shift between seasons, especially from winter to spring. While it is […]
What is 成人の日 ? 成人の日 (Seijin no Hi), or “Coming of Age Day,” is a Japanese national holiday celebrated annually on the second Monday of January. It honors and congratulates young people who have reached the age of 20, marking their transition to adulthood in Japanese society. Why is 20 an important age in Japan […]
Why are autumn leaves so vibrant in Japan ?What is giving its colors to the momiji ? Momiji (紅葉) refers to the vibrant autumn foliage in Japan, specifically the red and orange leaves of Japanese trees. Usually are distinguish the Kouyo (紅葉) referring to the yellowish and red leaves while Momiji (紅葉) emphasizes on the […]
What is Shichi-Go-San ? Shichi-Go-San (七五三, “Seven-Five-Three”) is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on November 15 each year, honoring the growth and well-being of young children. The name, “Shichi-Go-San,” comes from the ages of the children involved: seven (七, shichi), five (五, go), and three (三, san). Who celebrates Shichi-Go-San ? Boys typically celebrate at […]
On Sunday, August 31, the grand mikoshi parade took place in Takadanobaba. On this special occasion, our students joined local residents and members of the neighborhood committee to celebrate together. Our students wore the traditional festival attire embroidered with the school’s name: a happi coat fastened with an obi belt on top, and short festival […]
On June 13, as part of their cultural experience, students from the Tourism Business class had the opportunity to take part in a traditional furin 風鈴 (Japanese wind chime) workshop at Shinohara Maruyoshi Furin Workshop (篠原まるよし風鈴). They could choose between two activities: glass blowing, where they made their furin from scratch, and/or furin painting. What […]
The yukata is a lightweight garment often worn during summer festivals in Japan. Unlike the kimono, which is more formal and often more challenging to wear, the yukata is a more casual yet equally elegant outfit made of cotton and decorated with floral, geometric, or nature-inspired patterns. Historical background of yukata The yukata is a […]
What is the Rokuyō calendar ? The Rokuyō (六曜) is a traditional Japanese calendar system that assigns a fortune—ranging from good to bad—to each day, cycling through six distinct types. While not based on scientific evidence, Rokuyō remains influential in Japan, especially when selecting dates for significant life events like weddings, funerals, and business openings. […]
When is Golden Week? Golden Week (ゴールデンウィーク) is one of Japan’s biggest holiday seasons, spanning several national holidays that fall close together at the end of April and beginning of May. It’s a popular time for travel, leisure, and family gatherings across the country. Why “Golden Week”? Golden Week itself wasn’t a term initially used […]
