Blogs

In Japan, early May brings gentle rains known as samidare (五月雨) — a hallmark of the country’s early summer traditions. These rains coincide with Children’s Day, a national celebrati … read more

In our office, we have a corner we call "small world" for displaying traditional Japanese seasonal themes. And one of the surest signs of coming of spring in Japan is Hina-Matsuri, the Festival of Do … read more

I live in Miyazaki, on southern Kyushu island. Here, as the mid-spring breeze sweeps away the last petals of the cherry blossoms, a serene transformation envelops the land, ushered in by the soft whi … read more

Living in Kyushu, I feel fortunate to experience the stunning cherry blossom season, typically from late March to early April every year. As the cherry trees burst into bloom, the landscape transfo … read more

It is mid-May. The rainy season is about to start in Japan, and gorgeous hydrangeas and wisterias are everywhere. Beautiful rain chains, an unmistakable sight in Japan, collect water from the downs … read more