Spring Tea Culture in Japan

Japan is a nation deeply intertwined with tea, where traditions dating back centuries blend seamlessly with nature and craftsmanship. Every step of tea production, from the meticulous harvest to the refined enjoyment of tea, reflects the country’s enduring harmony with its natural surroundings and cultural heritage. ◆ What is Tea Picking?◆ Tea picking, or cha-tsumi …

The Japanese School Year Starts in April

Voice April 2025

As cherry blossoms bloom, new students and their families dress formally and attend the entrance ceremony. In particular, at elementary schools, it is common for children to wear brand-new uniforms and carry shiny “randoseru” backpacks, taking commemorative photos with their families. A randoseru is a sturdy, box-shaped backpack used by Japanese elementary school students. It …

March 3rd is Japan’s “HINAMATSURI”

In Japan, “Hinamatsuri” is an annual event that carries the wish for the healthy growth and future happiness of young girls. On this day, families decorate their homes with Hina dolls, adorned with decorations like cherry blossoms and peach flowers, and offer traditional treats such as hina-arare (colored rice cakes) and hishi-mochi (diamond-shaped rice cakes), …

Ramen/らーめん 

◆What is ramen?◆ Ramen is a beloved noodle dish in Japan that has its roots in the Chinese “Chuka soba.” Over time, it has evolved through Japanese culture to become what is the modern ramen enjoyed today. While sushi is often cited as the most popular Japanese food among foreigners, ramen comes a close second, …