The majority of Japan’s companies and schools begin in April. In comparison to most other countries that start new years in September, a large difference is felt.
Most of the Japanese have willingly accepted this. Of course, it is still an inconvenience to those that wish to attend half-year camps overseas or study abroad. In order to adapt to these challenges, many Japanese colleges and universities have started allowing transfers or enrollments starting in September.
Despite the differing new years, I believe starting a new year as the cherry blossoms and other spring flowers bloom is good for the soul. It is truly the start of a new life, a new path and a new you.
Visiting Japan’s national flowers; the cherry blossoms, is a great thing to do as a tourist.
There are several great cherry blossom sites just in Tokyo, including the Imperial Palace (皇居), Chidori-ga-fuchi (千鳥ヶ淵), Askayama Park (飛鳥山公園), Shiba Park (芝公園) and the Hamarikyuu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園) ,Meguro River(目黒川),Yasukuni Shrine (靖国神社),Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑). The cherry blossoms are especially beautiful at night when lit up by the Roppongi Ark Hills (六本木アークヒルズ). Located in a relatively traffic-free spot right in the middle of Tokyo, this soothing rest stop is a hot spot for tourists in Tokyo.
To the high snowfalls of Hokkaido to the everlasting summers of Okinawa, Japan is a country where sightseeing is possible and tourism is a year-round possibility. For example, in Tokyo and other eastern regions, it is possible to enjoy beautiful sceneries all year long. Japan is definitely not just a country of video games and anime. If the 2D world becomes too monotonous, simply pay a visit to some of Japan’s ancient and healing natural environments.
To those starting to study overseas in Japan, and to those considering working in Japan, I believe the changing of the seasons can heal the weariness of our busy everyday lives. During your stay in Japan, please enjoy the Japanese culture and way of life.
In addition, it may be fun to participate in in Japan’s “Flower Picnic Culture”. During the blooming season of the cherry blossoms, the ground beneath the trees is occupied by many picnic blankets. Sitting below the trees participating in drinking parties or eating a delicious bento (boxed lunch) is part of the “Flower Picnic” event.
Parties are frequently held together with family, friends and colleagues. In countries or states where drinking in only permitted in bars, these parties may seem like a strange scene, but in Japan, it is just another seasonal event. To really experience the Japanese culture, it may be fun to try it at least once. While immersing yourself in the night-time cherry blossoms and the gentle spring breeze, enjoy the Japanese spring to your heart’s content with some close friend.
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