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 is made from leather or synthetic materials and is designed to last for six years. Traditionally, girls use red and boys use black, but in recent years, students have chosen more personalized options, such as pink, blue, and backpacks with cute anime characters. The randoseru, known for its durability and functionality, has become a fashion item in Europe, with people even seeking second-hand ones that were used by Japanese children.
◆ Why Does Japan’s School Year Start in April? ◆
Japan’s school year originally began in September. When the Western education system was introduced during the Meiji Restoration, many of Japan’s higher education teachers were from Europe and America, so Japan followed the Western tradition and held the entrance ceremony in September.
However, in 1886, Japan adopted the fiscal year system, aligning the school year with the country’s budgetary cycle. The fiscal year begins in April and ends in March, which led to the school year also starting in April.
At that time, Japan’s main source of tax revenue was rice, which was harvested in autumn. Converting rice into cash for taxes took time, so if the fiscal year began in January, taxes would not be paid on time. Therefore, starting the fiscal year in April, considering the rice harvest and cash conversion period, was the most practical solution.
◆ A Life Cycle Aligned with Japan’s Climate ◆
In Japan, it is common for those graduating from high school or university in March to start working in April. This is also a time when many young adults move out and begin living independently.
April symbolizes a “new beginning” and the “transition to a new environment”. Students begin their studies with the blooming cherry blossoms, get accustomed to their new surroundings during the summer, and continue to grow through autumn and winter. This rhythm is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Doesn’t experiencing the changing seasons play a significant role in the lifestyle in nature-rich Canada as well? By learning about cultural and seasonal differences, we can enrich our experiences, traveling between the two countries.
Midori/Neko Ramen
This article was contributed to the April 2025 issue of Cowichan Valley Voice.
