On Friday, July 24, we conducted a “Mount Fuji Bus Field Trip.” Approximately 500 students participated in the event, departing for Yamanashi Prefecture split across a total of 14 large buses. Our first destination was Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a village lined with thatched-roof houses from the Edo period. Within this picturesque settlement, there […]

On Tuesday, April 28, the Intermediate 2 students visited Kawagoe on a pleasant spring day with a refreshing breeze. Kawagoe is known as “Little Edo” because of its many historic buildings, and it has been officially recognized by the Japanese government as a “historic city.” Before the trip, the students researched the charm of the […]

What is the vernal equinox ? Vernal Equinox Day in Japan, known as Shunbun no Hi (春分の日), is a national holiday celebrated annually around March 20 or 21, depending on the year. It marks the astronomical start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere when day and night are approximately equal in length.  Historical background The […]

On March 5, 2026, SNG students took part in a tea ceremony experience. The event was held at Eishoji Temple, known as the birthplace of Kodokan Judo. Its quiet and atmospheric grounds provided a setting well suited to experiencing traditional Japanese culture. During the session, the students were divided into two groups. They took turns […]

What kind of day is 天皇誕生日 ? The Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日, Tennō Tanjōbi) is a national holiday in Japan, celebrated annually to honor the reigning emperor’s birth. The date of the holiday changes whenever a new emperor ascends the throne, reflecting their specific birthdate. Why do Japanese celebrate the Emperor’s birthday ? The celebration of […]

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 […]

On November 26, under clear autumn skies, the intermediate class visited the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum. Before the trip, the students learned about the historical background of the buildings and their value as cultural properties, preparing themselves with the knowledge needed to enjoy the visit even more. On the day of the excursion, they […]

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 […]