Hanami

Since it's April all across Japan the cherry trees (sakura) began to bloom. Obviously it doesn't happen all at once, but in waves. It starts from the south and then works up north throughout the whole month.

It is said that the practice of picnicking under the blooming trees started somewhere during the Nara period (710–794), when it was done under the ume trees. Later on in the Heian period (794–1185) the practice became entirely connected with the cherry trees, and has been ever since.

During the hanami, families or work colleagues gather together and have a small party, so to say. The eat bento and drink sake, and generally just enjoy themselves. During the hanami season there are a lot of new products, exclusive to this time of year. These include sweets, meals and alcohol tasting of cherries.

About a week ago I went to Nagoya castle together with my culture class. The view of blooming cherry trees is truly amazing, and it is a pity it doesn't last longer. However, when the petals are blown of by the wind it looks just like snow! And just to make it clear, the cherry trees are not only pink! They vary greatly from absolutely white, through tinted slightly peachy up to actual pink.

Ukiyo-e

Last month, I went to the Nagoya-Boston Museum of Fine Arts to see an exhibition about Ukiyo-e ! I found it very interesting, so I'd like to introduce it to you (^.^)

Ukiyo-e is a Japanese artistic movement from the Edo Period (1603-1868) consisting of prints (engraved on wood).

This kind of print was really appreciated by the Japanese middle classes !

It generally depicts young pretty ladies, courtesans, kabuki actors, sumo wrestlers, famous places, etc.

The ukiyo-e style widely influenced the European impressionist movement.

I am sure you have already seen the work of Hokusai or Hiroshige !

Pandas, Welcome to Japan !

A pair of pandas from China is coming to Ueno Park in Tokyo！

Many Japanese and tourists were waiting for them since the last panda Ling Ling died in 2008.

To welcome the female Xian Lu and the male Bi Li, children and parents are covering the walls near the park with drawings and messages everyday !

For the moment, procedures about the protection and the environment of the pandas are conducted.

From March, it will be possible to see them !! \(^o^)/

Hina-Matsuri (Doll Festival)

On March 3 the Hina-Matsuri (Doll Festival) is held throughout Japan !

Traditionally, each home is decorated with ornamental dolls called ''Hina-Ningyo''.

These dolls represent the imperial court with the Emperor, Empress, but also musicians in dress of the Heian Period (9th-12th centuries).

In general, these dolls are passed down from generation to generation.

Families display ''Hina-Ningyo'' from February to wish girls happiness and take them down on the evening of March 3. If families forget to take the dolls down before March 4 it is thought to bring bad luck for the future marriage of the daughter(s).

Valentine‘s Day !

On February 14 was Valentine's Day !!

Everyone celebrates it throughout the world, but do you know the differences between countries ?

Let's learn more about the most romantic day of the year ♪

Originally, Valentine's Day was a religious festival. It is just from the 14th century that Europeans introduced the aspect of love within this celebration.

In most countries, couples give each other a present to show their love. Red rose is the most common present as it is the symbol of passion.

What about Japanese Valentine's Day ?

Valentine's Day was introduced in Japan in 1958. On this day, only women offer chocolates to men.

At the office, female clerks also give chocolates to their colleagues. These chocolates are usually called ''giri-choko'' (chocolate of obligation !).

One month after, on 14th March, it is men's turn to give a present to thank these women ! It can be chocolates but also flowers... This is the ''White Day'' !

It also happens that girls offer each other chocolates to show their friendship. In this case, chocolates are called ''tomo-choko'' （chocolate of frienship).