AN INTRODUCTION

TO JAPAN
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Background & Society
Geo g ra p hy o f Ja p a n 1
Go v ernm ent 3
C urrenc y 5
E c o no m y 6
Ja p a nese L a ng ua ge 7

Education
E duc atio n 11
Sc ho o l L ife 13

Food
Fl a v o rs o f Ja p a n 15
Ja p a nese Fo o d E tiq uette 17
A Ty p ic a l Ja p a nese Mea l 18
Rec ip e: O nig iri 19
Rec ip e: O ko no m iy a ki 20

Arts & Culture

An Introduction to Japan

The Educational Resource Guide was created by staff at the Embassy of Japan, all of whom Ja p a nese Ma rtia l A rts 21
have had experience living, studying, and working in Japan. It aims to both present a compre- Ja p a nese Perfo rm ing A rts 23
hensive overview of Japanese society and culture and be a source of inspiration for children and
adults alike to learn more! Tra ditio na l C ul tura l C o rnersto nes 25
Copyright © 2021- 2022, 2023
Japan Information & Culture Center,

Annual Events
Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C.
27
1150 18th Street NW, Suite 100
Washington, D.C. 20036

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any material forms
The Seasons of Japan 29
including photography or storage in any medium by electronic means and whether or not

Learning Resources & Info

transiently or incidentally to some other use of this publication without the written permission
of the copyright owner. 33
GEOGRAPHY OF JAPAN Sa p p o ro C ity A omori Prefectu re
• 73% of land is mountainous and hilly, 12.5% is used for agriculture The largest city in Hokkaido Known for its delicious apples and
• 145,936 sq. mi. (slightly smaller than California) prefecture. Sapporo is known the giant illuminated lantern floats
for its famous Snow Festival of the Nebuta Festival.
• A mostly temperate climate with four distinct seasons held every February. Icon: Apple
• Comprised of four large islands, Hokkaido, Honshu, Icon: Snow Sculpture
Shikoku, Kyushu, and other smaller islands
• Has 47 prefectures   Fuk u shima Prefectu re
• Largest cities by population: Tokyo (Capital), Yokohama, To ky o Metro p o l is The third largest prefecture in
Osaka, Nagoya, and Sapporo Japan, famous for akabeko, which
Formerly called “Edo,” Tokyo
is a traditional toy.
got its name when it became
Icon: Akabeko
Japan’s official capital in 1868.
Icon: Tokyo Skytree

Kyoto City
Once the capital and now one
Na go y a C ity of the most historical cities in
Japan.
An industrial hub that’s Icon: Kinkakuji
also home to the ancient
traditions of the famous
Atsuta Shrine.
Icon: Shachihoko
Fuk u ok a Prefecture
Food markets and cutting-edge
architecture blend harmoniously with
Japan’s southern natural landscape.
O sa ka C ity Icon: Tonkotsu Ramen
A vibrant city famous for its
street foods like okonomiyaki,
a Japanese savory pancake. Mt . F uj i
Icon: Osaka Castle
The tallest mountain in Japan
and an active volcano at 12,388
ft. tall.

Hiro shim a Prefec ture

Some of the most Tok u shima Prefectu re
spectacular fall foliage in
the world can be seen on In addition to its beautiful nature,
Miyajima. Tokushima is home to the Awa Odori
Icon: Water Torii Festival, which draws millions of
visitors annually.
Icon: Whirlpools

O kina w a Prefec ture Nagasak i Prefectu re

Has an interesting mix of
In the Edo period (1603-1867)
indigenous Ryukyu culture
Nagasaki was the only port allowed
and Japanese culture, which
to trade with other nations due to
• Consists of more than 6,800 islands is noticeable in the cuisine,
the national isolation policy.
• Lies on the “Pacific Ring of Fire,” and has over 100 active architecture, performing arts,
Icon: Dutch Trade Boat
and unique dialect.
volcanoes and about 1,500 earthquakes on average per year due
Icon: Shisa
to its tectonic plate activity

1 2
GOVERNMENT
Japan has a parliamentary system of government. While the Emperor remains an important
symbol of unity, all governmental decisions are handled by the three branches: executive,
legislative, and judicial. The Constitution of Japan came into effect in 1947, emphasizing
principles of sovereignty, respect for fundamental human rights, and advocacy of peace.

Separation of Powers
The Constitution of Japan provides for the principle of the separation of powers. Three
independent organs — the Diet, the Cabinet, and the Judiciary — are established, and each
limits the power of the others through a system of checks and balances. This prevents the
abuse of power and guarantees the rights and freedom of the people.

LEGISLATURE

465 seats 248 seats

Emperor and Nengo
House of Representatives House of Councillors
(lower house) (upper house)

While Japan uses the Gregorian calendar that is used in the U.S., Japan also has its own
DIET calendar that counts years from the start of each emperor’s reign. The years within a single
Highest organization of state power &
emperor’s reign are part of an era classified with a nengo, or Japanese era name. This “one
the sole law-making organ of the State. reign, one era name” was adopted in the Meiji era beginning in 1868.
et
Di
e
th

Im
lo Die to

se

pe
Nengo eras: Meiji (1868–1912), Taisho (1912–1926), Showa (1926–1989),
u
e

ac
ho
th he ibl
w t

hm
of f t ons

Heisei (1989–2019), and Reiwa (2019–present).

er

en
to
io n sp

fj
ut io re

ud
o

Elect
ol at ly

Ju
et ce te

ge
ss oc e

in en nis

of dic
Di nv ctiv

Members s
In 2019, Emperor Akihito abdicated the throne, leaving his son, Prince Naruhito, to ascend
n

la ial
i
t C on e M
Co lle

w re
s
the Chrysanthemum Throne and become Emperor of Japan. This resulted in the end of the
Co

v
ns -c m

ie
ab fid

w
ai no Pri

of
Heisei era and the beginning of a new era, Reiwa, or “beautiful harmony.” May 1, 2019 was
ag of of

co
n

ns
tio

tit
the official first day of Reiwa 1, with January 1st to April 30th still considered Heisei 31.
m dop gna

ut
io on

io
na
On that day, many Japanese people marked the momentous occasion with gatherings
i
ot ti
s

lit
De

Review of y
THE PEOPLE
Public Supreme
and celebration.
A

Opinion Court Justices

EXECUTIVE JUDICIARY The Emperor is the symbol of Japan and of the unity of the people. He performs acts in
Prime Minister Chief Justice
matters of state with the advice and approval of the Cabinet, such as the promulgation
of amendments of the Constitution, laws, cabinet orders and treaties, the convocation
Designation of Chief Justice of the
Supreme Court of the Diet, etc. While he has no powers related to government, he appoints the Prime
Appointment of the 14 other Justices Minister and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court as designated by the Diet and the
Cabinet respectively.
CABINET SUPREME COURT
Supreme decision-making organ of the execu- Highest judicial organ In this respect, the position of the Emperor in postwar Japan differs from that in prewar
tive branch. Consists of the Prime Minister and Judicial review of constitutionality of 1 Chief Justice & 14 Justices
not more than 17 Ministers of State (and is orders, regulations, and official acts days when the Emperor was the source of sovereign power.
collectively responsible to the Diet). The Prime
Minister appoints or dismisses Ministers. HIGH COURTS
DISTRICT COURTS The Imperial Throne is dynastic and succeeded from father to son.
3 4
CURRENCY ECONOMY
Yen 3rd Largest Economy in the World (Nominal GDP, 2022)
The official currency of Japan, the Japanese Yen (JPY), is the third most traded currency
As Japan is a small island nation with few natural
in the foreign exchange market. The word yen means “circle” or “round object.” Yen was
resources, items such as petroleum, food, and
officially adopted by the Meiji government in 1871 as part of the modernization policy of
minerals must be imported from other countries.
Japan’s economy. In March 2023, the exchange rate of 1 USD averaged around 140 JPY.
That said, Japan is a major player in international
trade. Japan’s impressive export performance can

￥ ￥￥￥
NEW BIL L S C OIMING IN 2024 be explained by the wide variety of its industrial
output, the shift to products with a high value, its

≈
competitiveness, and the leading position of its
industry in a number of fields.

≈
Top Ex p or t & I m p or t P a r tner s (2 0 2 1 )

≈ $1 64B $1 86B

$81B
U .S .A.
$ 3 2B $53B

C H I NA REPUB L I C

≈
OF KOREA

HONG KONG
$36B TA I WA N
$135B
$55B $34B

$52B

≈
B : B i l l i on U.S . Do l l a rs

A U STR A L I A I M POR T

EXPOR T

≈
≈
Others General
17.8% Machinery Mineral Fuels
19.7% Others 20.0%
33.6%
Manu-
759 774

≈
Top 5 P r od u cts Top 5 P r od u cts
factured
Goods
B illion Billion
Ex p or ts (2 0 2 1 ) 11.9%
I m p or ts (2 0 2 1 )
U SD Transport General US D Electrical
Machinery

≈
Chemicals Equipment Machinery
12.7% 19.5% 9.1% 16.1%
Electrical Manufac-
Machinery tured Goods Chemicals
18.4% 9.7% 11.5%

5
≈ Source: JETRO, Statistics Bureau of Japan
6
JAPANESE LANGUAGE Kanji
Kanji use a number of strokes to represent words, which can combine to express further
ideas or concepts. They often have several pronunciations, and the correct one is
Although Japan is becoming more and more diverse, Japanese remains the primary determined by the surrounding characters. Today, Japanese people must learn about 2,000
language of Japan. A standardized version spoken in Tokyo is now common across all kanji for literacy, though traditional texts, proper names, and technical writing show as
prefectures; however, unique dialects and accents still exist regionally. The first Japanese many as 50,000 kanji in existence. By 6th grade, students are expected to read and write
writing system was adapted from that of China sometime in the 5th or 6th century. This approximately 1,000 kanji.
writing system, called kanji, consists of pictures (or logograms) that represent words or
ideas. Since these characters were originally from the Chinese language, they could not Practice!
Picture of the sun becomes the kanji for day or “hi”
accommodate the different sounds and words found in Japanese. Thus, two other

日 日 日
writing systems called hiragana and katakana were developed. 1
2

Page read right to left Text read left to right

Hiragana
1

Hiragana is a phonetic script made up of 46 characters created by simplifying cursive-style

Text read kanji characters. It was first popularized as a literary script mainly used by women of the
top to imperial court in 11th century Japan, some of the most notable being Murasaki Shikibu who
bottom
and right
wrote the literary classic, The Tale of Genji, and Sei Shounagon who wrote the original
to left zuihitsu poem, The Pillow Book. In modern Japan it is mainly used for Japanese words,
particles, and verb endings.
2
Practice!
An (secure, ease) becomes the hiragana あ or “a”

安 あ あ あ
1
2

Flip left to right Katakana

Katakana is also a phonetic script made up of 46 characters and similar to hiragana. It
was created through the simplification of select components of certain kanji characters.
However, you may notice it is much boxier and less soft-looking than its counterpart
Traditionally, the Japanese language is written top to bottom and read right to left; hiragana. Katakana is mainly used for loanwords — for example, many Western names
however, while that style is still used in contemporary Japan, Japanese can also be written would be written in katakana — but it is also used for emphasis, onomatopoeias, and
horizontally and read left to right like the English language. You can find examples of scientific names of flora and fauna.
both writing styles in Japan today: in Japanese novels, magazines, and manga (Japanese Practice!
comics) written top to bottom and right to left, or in emails or websites written horizontally A (curves of river or mountain) becomes the katakana ア or “a”

ア ア ア
and left to right. Above are a couple examples of what it would look like in both forms. 1

7 8
 A I U E O A I U E O
か
かKA き
きKI く
くKU け けKE ここKO カ
カKA キ
キKI ク
クKU ケ ケKE ココKO
J A PA N J Acharacters,
P A N and is characterized by the use
Hiragana is a syllabary composed of 46
EMBASSY OF JAPAN, WASHINGTON DC
Katakana is a syllabary composed of 46
EMBASSY OF JAPAN, WASHINGTON DC

あ KI
KA い う え
KU KE お KO characters, and is characterized by the use ア KI
KA イ ウ エ
KU KE オ KO
が
が ぎ
A
ぎ ぐ
ぐ げ
I U
げ ご
E
ご
O
of& curved
INFORMATION CULTURE CENTERlines and round strokes. It is one ガ
ガ ギ
A
ギ グ
I
グ ゲ ゴ
U
ゲ E
ゴ O
of straight lines and sharp corners. It is one
INFORMATION & CULTURE CENTER

GA GI GU GE GO
GA
か
GA
GI
き
GI
GU
く
GU
GE
け
GE こGO
GO
of the three Japanese writing systems, along カ
GA キ
GI ク
GU ケ
GE コ
GO
of the three Japanese writing systems, along

Hiragana Chart CHART Katakana Chart CHART Guess what these kanji mean!
with katakana and kanji. Hiragana are used with hiragana and kanji. Katakana are used
サ
サSAガシ ス セ ソ
KA KI KU KE KO
さ
さSAがし す せ そ
KA KI KU KE KO

HIRAGANA KATAKANA
しSHI
ぎす ぐ せ
SU SE そ
げ ごSO
SO
together with kanji to write word endings and シSHI
ギス グ セ
SU SE ソ
ゲ ゴSO
mainly to write loan words (words borrowed
あSA GA
あAじ いSHI
いIず GIう SU
うU ぜ GU えSE
えEぞGE お
お GO
other ordinary Japanese words which are not ア
ア
SA GAイ
イ
SHI GIウ
ウ
SU GU エ
エ
SEGE オ
オ
SO
GO
from other languages) and non-Japanese
ざ
ざZAA じし
O normally written with kanji, such as adverbs,
ザ
ザZA
A ジ I ズ U ゼ E ゾ O
サジ シ JI ズZU ス ゼセ ZE ゾ
names, as well as to denote the various
さ JII ずZUすU ぜせ ZEE ぞ そZOO ソZOO
and some nouns and adjectives. A I U E sounds and cries of animals.
かZA SA
かKA ち き JISHIく
きKI つ
ZUSU け
くKU て
ZESE こ
けKE と こ
ZO
SO カZA SA
カKA チ キ JISHIク
キKI ツ
ZUSU ケ
クKU テ
ZESE コ
ケKE ト
ZO
SO
コKO
た
たTAあち
ざ じいつ ず う てぜ えKE と お
ぞ
KO きゃ きゅ
Hiragana きょ composed of 46
is a syllabary タ
タTAアチ
ザ ジイツ ズウ テゼ TE ト
エ オ
ゾ キャ キュ
Katakana
キャ
キョ composed of 46
is a syllabary
きゃ KYA きゅ KYUis きょ KYA キュ KYUis キョ
KA CHIKI KU
TSU TE KO
TO characters, and characterized by the use KA CHIKI KU
TSU KE KO
TO characters, and characterized
KYO by the use
KYO
が
がGA ぎ
TA ZAA
ぎち ぐ
ぐ げ
CHI JIITSUZUU TEZEE
げ ご
ご
TO
ZOO KYA lines
of curved KYU KYO strokes. It is one
and round ガ
ガ ギ
ギ グ
グ ゲ
TA ZAACHI JIITSUZUU TEZEE TO
ゲ ゴ
ゴ
ZOO KYA lines
of straight KYUand sharp
KYO corners. It is one
Pictogram Kanji Pronunciation English
だ ぢ GI づ GU で GE ど ダ GA ヂ GI ヅGU デGE ドGO

ひ
た つ て と しゃ しゅ しょ シャ シュ ショ

カ
か き く け こ GO きゃ
of the three きゅ きょ
Japanese writing systems, along
ダDAタ
カTAヂ チキ ヅZU ツク デケ テ ト
コ キャ
of キュ
the three キョ
Japanese writing systems, along
だDA ぢ づ で KEど KEドDO
GA TA GI
KA JICHI
GU
ZUTSU GE
DETE GO
DO
TO しゃ
with SHA
katakana しゅ SHUand しょ SHO
kanji. Hiragana are used
GA GI
KA JICHI
GU
KI TSU
GE
KU DETE GO
TO シャ
withSHA シュ
hiragana and ショ
SHU SHO
kanji. Katakana are used
サDA シJI ス ZU セ DE ソ
KO
さDA しJI す ZU せ DE そ
KI KU KO KYA KYU KYO KYA KYU KYO
DO SHA SHU SHO DO SHA SHU SHO
さSA
な しSHI
に ぬすづ ねせ SE の そ together with kanji to write word endings and サSA
ナ シ
ニ ヌス ネセ ノソ mainly to write loan words (words borrowed

目
だ
が ぢぎ ぐ
SU で
げ ど
ごDO
SO しゃ
ちゃ しゅちゅ しょちょ ナNAダ
ガDAニ ヂギ ヌSU
SHI ヅグ ネゲ
SU デSE ド
ゴSO
SO シャ
チャ シュ
チュ ショチョ
なNA DAに ぬNUZU ねNE GEの GEノNO
other ordinary Japanese words which are not from other languages) and non-Japanese
SA SHI
GA NI JI
GI SUGU SE
DE SO
NOGO ちゃ CHA ちゅ
SHA CHU ちょ
SHU SHO SA GASHI
NI JI
GI NUZU SE
GU NEDE DO
GO チャ CHA チュ
SHA CHU チョ
SHU SHO

ら
CHO CHO

タ
ざNA じNI ず
ざZAな じに ずぬ
NU ぜ
ぜ
NE ぞ
ね ぞ の
NO normally
CHA written CHUwith kanji,
CHO such as adverbs, ザ
ザ
NA ジNI ズ
ナ ジ ニ ズ
NU ゼ
ヌ ゼ
NE ゾ
ネ ゾ
ノ
NO names,
CHA as wellCHUas toCHO denote the various
me
は
はHA
さひ
ひ
JI ふ
し
ふFU
す
ZU へ せ
へHE
ZE ほ
SEほ
そNO
ZO ちゃ
and
にゃ someちゅ nouns ちょ
にゅ and
にょadjectives. ハ サヒ シ
ZA
ハHA ヒ
JI フ ZU
フFU
ス ヘ セ
ヘHE
ZE ホ ソNO
SEホHO
ZO チャ
sounds
ニャ and チュ
ニュ criesチョ
ofニョ
animals.
にゃ CHA にゅ
NYU にょ ニャ
CHA ニュ
NYU ニョ moku
1
ZA NA JISHI
SA HI NI ZU
NU
SU ZE
NE ZO
HOSO CHU CHO ZA NA JISHI
SA HI NI ZUNU
SU ZE
NE ZO
SO
NYA
CHU CHO
NYO
NYA NYO
たHA ちHI つ
たTAは
ざび ひ
ちCHIじ JI ふFU て
つTSUずFU て
HE と
へ
ぜ と ほHO
ぞHO にゃきゃ
きゃ
NYA きゅ
にゅ きゅ
NYU きょ
にょ きょ
NYO タHA チHI ツFU テ
タTAハ
ザビ ヒ
チCHIジ JI フ
ツTSU
ズFU
HE ト
ヘ
テゼ ホ
ト
HO
ゾHO キャ
NYA キュ
ニャ
キャ ニュ
キュ
NYU キョ
ニョキョ
NYO
ば ぶ べ TE ぼ TO ひゃ NYA ひゅ バ ブ ベ TE ボ TO ヒャ
NYA ヒュ boku
が
ひょ ヒョ

カ
KYA KYU NYOKYO KYA KYU NYOKYO
ばBA び
TA HA
BI ぶBU べBE ぼ
ZACHIHI TSU ZU HE
TEZE TO
BO
ZO
ひゃ HYA ひゅ
KYA NYU
HYU ひょ
KYU KYO
HYO バBA ビ
TA HA
BI ブBU ベBE ボBO
ZACHIHI TSU ZU HE
TEZE TO
ZO
ヒャ
HYA ヒュ
KYA NYU
HYU ヒョ
KYU KYO
HYO
だ ぢ ちCHIづ つTSUで BE ど ダ ヂ ヅ デBE ド

ひ
ば
たTAぢび づぶ べ
て ぼ
と しゃ しゅ しょ バ ビ ブ ベ ボ シャ シュ ショ ma
カ
BA
だDA
BI BU
で TE ど
BO ひゃきゃ
しゃ
HYA ひゅ きゅしゅ
HYUひょ きょしょ
HYO BA
ダDAタ チ
BI
ヂ JICHIBIヅZU
ツ
BU
テ
BU デDE
トBO
TE ドDO
ヒャ
HYA ヒュ
キャ
シャ キュ
シュ
HYUヒョキョ
ショ
HYO
ぱ ぴ
BA ぷ
JIBI
ぱPA ぴPI ぷPU ぺPE
BUぺ
ZU
DE ぽ
DE
BE
ぽ
DO
TO
BO みゃ SHA みゅ
HYA
KYA HYUSHU みょ
KYU HYO
KYOSHO パ DA ピ
パPA ピPIJI プ
TA
BA
プPU ZU ペ
TSU
ペPEDE ポ
BE
ポPO
TO
BO ミャ SHA ミュ
HYA
ミャ
KYA HYUSHU ミョ
KYU HYOSHO
KYO
みゃ MYA みゅ MYU みょ MYA ミュ MYU ミョ
DA JI ZU DO SHA SHU SHO DO SHA SHU SHO
PO
ナ ニ ヌ ネPE ノ
MYO MYO
な ぱ にPI ぴぢPIJIぬぷ ねPE の
ぺ ぽ パ ピ プ ペ ポ

な
なNAだPA づPU ねで ど みゃ みゅ ダ ヂ ヅ デ ド ミャ
シャ ミュ ミョ

ナ
PA PU PO しゃ
ちゃ しゅちゅ みょ
しょちょ PA PI PU PO チャ シュ
チュ ショ
チョ
ナNA PAニNI PIJIムヌNUPU ネNEPE ノNO
MYA MYU MYO MYA MYU MYO
ま にNI
み
DA むぬNU め
ZU DEも
PE の PO
DO
りゃちゃ CHA りゅ ちゅ CHU りょ ちょ マ ミ
DA メ
ZU DEモ PO
DO チャ
リャ チュ
CHA リュ
MYA チョ
CHU リョ
MYU MYO

山
NE NO MYA
SHA MYU
SHU MYO
SHO SHA SHU SHO

ら
マMA
NA ミMI NI ム NU メMENE モ
CHO
まMA
NA みMI NI む NU めME NE も
CHO

タ
ま み む め も
NO りゃ CHA りゅ CHU りょ CHO
マ
ナ ミニ ムヌ メ
ネ モ
ノ
NO リャCHA リュ CHU リョ CHO
は な
MA ひ に MUぬ
ふMUNUへ ね ほ のMO りゃちゃ
にゃ
RYA りゅ
RYA にゅ ちゅ RYUりょ
RYU にょちょ RYO
ハMA ヒ
MU
フMUNUヘ ホMO リャ
チャ
ニャ
RYA リュ
チュ
RYA ニュ
RYUリョ
チョ
RYU ニョ
RYO
は
ら HA りひMI
MA
NA MIふ MU
HI NIるFU れへME
ME
HENE ほ
ろ
MO
MO
NO
HO にゃ CHA にゅ
RYA RYU
CHU にょ
RYO
RYO
CHO ハ
ラ HA リヒMI
MA
NA MIフ MU
HI NIルFU レヘME
ME
HE
MO
NE ホMO
ロHO NO ニャCHA ニュ
RYA RYU
CHU ニョ
RYO
RYO
CHO yama
ラRA
HA リRI HI ルRU FU レREHE ロRO
NYA NYU NYO
らRA
HA りRI HI るRU FU れREHE ろ
NYA NYU NYO
ら
は RI りひ RU る
ふ れ へ ろ
ほ HO
RO にゃ NYA
にゅ NYU
にょNYO ラ
ハ リヒ ル
フ レ
ヘ ロ
ホ HO NYA
ニャ NYU
ニュ ニョNYO san
バ ビ
2
ば び ぶ FUべ HE ぼ ひゃ NYA ひゅ
RI ブ RU FUベ HE ボ ヒャ
NYA ヒュ ヒョ

が
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EMBASSY OF JAPAN, WASHINGTON DC

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Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
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Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan ka
やYAや ゆゆ よ ヤYAヤ ユユ ヨ
J A PA N 3
INFORMATION & CULTURE CENTER
EMBASSY OF JAPAN, WASHINGTON DC
よ ふぁ ふぃ
ふぁ ふぃ ふぇ
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1150 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 | TEL (202)-238-6900ふぉ
FA | FAX:F(202)-822-6524 ヨ ファ フィ
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1150 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 | TEL (202)-238-6900フォ
FA | FAX:F(202)-822-6524
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www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/
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JAPANESE LANGUAGE
INFORMATION & CULTURE CENTER
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日本語
Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
1150 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 | TEL (202)-238-6900 | FAX: (202)-822-6524 Japanese,
1150 18thor
Street NW, Washington,(nihongo) is the| FAX:
DC 20036 | TEL (202)-238-6900 official language of Japan. It consists of three distinct writing systems:
(202)-822-6524 boku
www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/ www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/
Kanji (漢字), Hiragana (ひらがな), & Katakana (カタカナ). Let’s learn to speak & write Japanese! moku
Le t ’ s P r ac tic e Hiragana!
nguage of Japan. It consists of three distinct writing systems: ki 4
(カタカナ). Let’s learn to speak & write Japanese! ko
good morning || ohayou
good morning || ohayou

林
hello || konnichiwa
good morning || ohayou hayashi
rin 5
please || onegai shimasu thank you || arigatou

masu thank you || arigatou

thank you || arigatou

see you later || mata ne

it's ok
see you later
|| daijoubu
|| mata ne
see you later || mata ne
森 mori
shin 6

Answer: 1 eye 2 mountain 3 fire 4 tree 5 woods 6 forest

Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan

1150 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 | TEL (202)-238-6900 | FAX: (202)-822-6524
www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/
ation & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan
n, DC 20036 | 9TEL (202)-238-6900 | FAX: (202)-822-6524 10
www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/
EDUCATION Elementary School
1st - 6th grade (6 years)
While formal education has existed in Japan since the 6th century, it was not until the Edo Children enter 1st grade in the April after their sixth birthday and complete
period (1603-1867) that it became widespread and accessible to people of all class levels. ES upon finishing 6th grade. Many students walk to school everyday.
The current educational system was introduced in the 1947 Fundamental Law on Education This custom teaches responsibility, pedestrian safety, and independence.
and the School Education Law. Under these laws, elementary (ES) to junior high school Younger students commonly wear a special yellow hat when walking,
(JHS) education was made compulsory. Kindergartens and preschools are also popular called tsugaku boshi. Students learn 1,026 kanji (roughly half of the 2,136
options for students in modern Japan. Most schools in Japan, both public and private, used in daily life) before graduating. As of 2020, English is a compulsory
require school uniforms from junior high to high school (HS). class starting in 3rd grade.

The Japanese School Year Junior High School

WINTER BREAK
7th - 9th grade (3 years)
JAN DID YOU KNOW?
3rd Semester Many JHS students go to their neighborhood schools. However, some go
to private schools further from home. Most JHS students will join a club
Most JHS and HS students
FEB are required to wear uniforms. after school, ranging from soccer to calligraphy to table tennis. Many
Each school has its own unique third-year students will spend much of their school year preparing for HS
uniform and may have entrance exams.
MAR GRADUATION
variations for the seasons!
SPRING BREAK

APR High School

1st Semester
10th - 12th grade (3 years)
MAY SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS
98.8% of JHS students go on to HS, and the majority of them graduate
JUN The Japanese school year (Statistics Bureau of Japan, 2019). To attend public high school, students
begins in April and ends in must take an entrance exam. Some students may even live in or attend
March with short breaks a school outside of their prefecture if it excels in their preferred area
JUL between each semester. of study.

AUG SUMMER BREAK

University
SEP 2nd Semester DID YOU KNOW? In 2017, there were 86 national universities, 90 public universities, and
604 private universities in Japan. National universities are extremely
OCT While only ES and JHS
are compulsory, 98% of
competitive and consistently rank among the top schools in Japan. The
number of international students attending Japanese universities in
students continue on to HS 2018 was 298,980, a 12% increase from the year before (Japan Student
NOV and 95% graduate! Services Organization, 2018). Circles, or student organizations/groups,
are a popular form of socialization among university students in Japan.
The majority of university students commute to school from their homes
DEC WINTER BREAK rather than living on campus in dorms.

11 12
SCHOOL LIFE Student Activities
SC HO O L LU NC H

Students in Japan study many subjects commonly found in the U.S. school system, In ES and JHS, students typically eat school lunch in
including math, science, language arts, foreign languages, physical education, and home their classrooms. In many schools, students take turns
economics. Japanese school curriculums may also incorporate civics, ethics, fine arts, serving lunch to their classmates. The lunch is prepared
as well as traditional arts such as Japanese calligraphy, known as shodo, and haiku. by the school or local school lunch centers featuring
local and seasonal specialties, with extra care given to
Students in Japan are assigned a homeroom with a teacher who, with student leaders, the nutritional balance of the meal.
conducts homeroom at the start and the end of the day. Unlike most American schools,
the students do not move from classroom to classroom, but instead teachers go to the C L E A NING TIME
students’ homeroom classrooms to teach.
Generally, Japanese schools do not have a custodian!
From ES to HS, students clean the classrooms, halls,
and yards of their school every day. This activity teaches
A Typical Schedule in the Week of a cleanliness and respect for the space they work in and

Junior High School Student

share with others.

C LU B AC TIV ITIE S
Hour Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Many students from ES to HS will participate in
時間 月 火 水 木 金
afterschool club activities. In ES, sports such as soccer
8:30∼8:50 Homeroom - 朝の会 or basketball are offered while options increase in
1 Japanese Math Japanese Math Japanese JHS and HS. In addition to sports, this usually includes
8:55∼9:45 国語 数学 国語 数学 国語 martial arts, band, and traditional Japanese arts like
2 English PE English English Science shodo. Clubs will meet after school for one or two hours
9:55∼10:45 英語 体育 英語 英語 理科 and sometimes on weekends.
3 Science Japanese Music Home Economics English
SPO RTS DAYS & C U LTU RE FE STIVA L
10:55∼11:45 理科 国語 音楽 家庭 英語
4 Math Science Social Studies Home Economics Math
11:55∼12:45 数学 理科 社会 家庭 数学
Students at all levels participate in a Sports Day every
12:45∼1:10 Lunch - 昼食 year: the entire school competes in a full day of sporting
1:10∼1:25 Recess - 昼休み events like relays, sprints, obstacle courses, etc. JHS
5 Social Studies Art Tech Ed Science Social Studies and HS students participate in a yearly Culture Festival
1:35∼2:25 社会 美術 技術 理科 社会 as well. Culture Festivals can look different at every
6 PE Art Study Hall PE school. Some popular Culture Festival events include
Homeroom school plays, choir competitions, themed classrooms
2:35∼3:35 体育 美術 総合学習 体育
3:35∼3:45 Cleaning - 掃除 with activities like a haunted house, and food stalls.
3:45∼4:00 Homeroom - 帰りの会 In addition, student clubs will often use the Culture
Festival to showcase their talents and passions with
4:00∼ Club Activities - 部活動 special performances and exhibitions.

JU KU

Many students, especially those in their third year of JHS

and HS, will attend juku, or cram schools. These schools
help students better prepare for entrance exams to get
into highly competitive high schools and universities.

13 14
FLAVORS OF JAPAN
Japan is home to delicious foods and flavors. Whether you love savory
ramen or fresh sushi, Japan has a wide range of appetizing cuisine to
enjoy. Japanese cuisine, or washoku, touches on all the flavor profiles:
sweet, bitter, salty, sour, spicy, and umami.

Umami was identified as a unique flavor by Japan in 1908 and

translates as a “delicious taste.” It refers to a savory, rich flavor that
can be found in many Japanese dishes containing mushrooms, meats,
bone broths, and fish. Let’s explore some uniquely Japanese foods
and recipes together!

Core Japanese Food Staples

Kombu Dashi
Kombu is a type of seaweed used to create Dashi is soup stock that can be made from
strong, umami broths and soups. It can be katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes), kombu,
used in salads and other dishes as well to niboshi (a type of small dried fish), or shiitake
bring a full flavor to the dish. mushrooms and creates a very rich, savory
soup stock used in various dishes like ramen.

Miso Yuzu
Miso is a paste made from fermented Yuzu is a unique citrus fruit resembling a
soybeans and is a Japanese staple in the cross between a lemon and mandarin
kitchen. It is known for its umami flavor orange. It’s commonly used in Japanese
and can be added to many dishes to cuisine as a zest and is a key ingredient
increase flavor. in ponzu (citrus-based sauce).

Mirin Shoyu
Mirin is a sweet rice liquor made exclusively Shoyu is a Japanese-style soy sauce made
for cooking purposes. Mirin can be used from fermented soy beans, wheat, salt, and
to boil, cook, and stir fry many common water. From sushi to ramen, shoyu is an
Japanese dishes and adds a uniquely integral pillar of Japanese cooking.
Japanese flavor.

15 16
JAPANESE FOOD ETIQUETTE A TYPICAL JAPANESE MEAL
The Do’s
While Western foods are very popular and have been adapted to Japanese tastes,
traditional family meals throughout Japan usually follow the ichijyu-sansai approach,
which means one soup, three sides. Rice is combined with two or three dishes called
• Say “itadakimasu,” or “let’s eat,” before okazu. Typically, a main fish or meat dish is complemented by either simmered, seasoned,
enjoying your meal or pickled vegetable side dishes. Let’s look at a few examples below!

• Pick up your bowl or small plate and

bring it closer to your mouth (you can
also drink soup or broth directly from Cho s ho k u 朝食/ Tamagoyaki 卵焼き/
the bowl without a spoon) B rea kfa st Rolled Omelette
• It’s ok to slurp your ramen and soup

• Say “gochisosama,” or “thank you for

the meal,” to the chef when you are Yaki Sake 焼き鮭/
finished Grilled Salmon

Hijiki ヒジキ/
Brown Seaweed
Gohan ご飯/ Miso Shiru みそ汁/
The Don’ts Rice Miso Soup

• Stick your chopsticks up vertically in

the food or rice — instead, place them
Yasai 野菜/
flat on a surface or plate Yus ho k u 夕食/
Chus ho k u 昼食/ Vegetables
Lun ch Din n er
• Use a single chopstick to stab food Satsuma-age
さつま揚げ/
• Pass food from chopstick to chopstick, Fishcakes ポテトサラダ/
or use chopsticks to move bones, as Potato Salad
these actions are used for funeral
Tsukemono
ceremonies
漬物/Pickles Tsukemono
漬物/Pickles
• Point with your chopsticks
Nimono 煮物/
• Leave too much food unfinished — try Simmered Dishes
to eat everything as a sign of
appreciation Tonkatsu とんかつ/
Pork Cutlet

17 18
 RECIPE: ONIGIRI RECIPE: OKONOMIYAKI
Onigiri (rice balls) are a beloved and timeless snack in Okonomiyaki is a kind of Japanese savory pancake filled
Japan. Different forms of onigiri date back as far as the with flour, eggs, cabbage, toppings, and whatever else you
11th century and were often eaten as quick snacks by like! Okonomiyaki translates to “grilled how you like it,”
samurai on the go in the 17th century. They are made by which makes it perfect for any craving you might have.
simply using your hands and cooked Japanese short grain From restaurants to street vendors, it is highly adaptable
rice. Adding different fillings like pickled plums, kombu, tuna and incredibly delicious! In fact, depending on your location,
and mayo, chicken, etc., can add new, interesting flavors to you may find yourself with an entirely new version of
your snack! Onigiri are perfect for lunch, picnics, and any okonomiyaki to enjoy. For example, in Hiroshima, many prefer
time a quick, delicious meal on the go is necessary. adding noodles to the base. You can customize it further with
variations including bacon, kimchi, cheese, mochi, seafood,
and so much more!
Ingredients: Serving size = 2-3 onigiri
• 1 cup cooked Japanese short grain rice Ingredients: Serving size = 1-2 people
• 1 sheet of nori (dried seaweed) cut into smaller strips
• salt as needed
• optional fillings: salted, flaked salmon; canned tuna • 2/3 cup water • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
mixed with mayonnaise; Japanese pickled plums • 1 cup flour (optional)
• 1 egg • optional toppings:
• 3-4 strips of sliced pork okonomiyaki sauce,
or bacon
Directions: • 3 cups shredded cabbage
bonito flakes,
aonori seaweed
• Run your hands under water to help prevent the rice • 3 tsp. instant fish soup stock
from sticking to them. Then, spread a pinch of salt • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
evenly over your palms.
Directions:
• Using sticky rice, place a palm-sized amount of rice on
one hand and gently shape it into a ball. • Mix the flour and baking powder together (if you decide
to include baking powder). Then gently mix those dry
• (Optional) Using two fingers, poke a hole in the center ingredients together with water.
of the rice and then insert your favorite filling. Once
satisfied, fill the hole with additional rice. • Add all the remaining ingredients to the flour water
mixture except for the pork/bacon slices. Mix thoroughly.
• Make a triangular shape by placing the ball on the
palm of one hand, while the other hand bends to form • Heat a hot plate or frying pan and add a little of your oil
the desired shape. of choice. Fry the pork slices on both sides and then
spoon the okonomiyaki mixture on top of the slices.
• Place the center of the nori strip at the base of the Spread it into a round shape about 1 inch thick.
triangle. Then wrap the ends upward towards the peak
of the triangle. • When air bubbles start to form, flip the okonomiyaki over
with a spatula. Continue cooking while pressing down on
• Now your onigiri is complete! Enjoy! it slighly with the spatula until the other side is done.

• Spread the okonomiyaki sauce over the okonomiyaki and

sprinkle the bonito flakes and aonori seaweed on top for
added flavor.
19 20
JAPANESE MARTIAL ARTS

Men (head) strike Tsuki (throat) strike

Katame-waza Nage-waza Kote (wrist) strike Do (torso) strike

(grappling) (throwing) Kumite (sparring) Kata (form)

Sumo Judo Kendo Karate

Sumo is Japan’s national sport with a Developed from the older art known Kendo is a martial art that was heavily Karate is perhaps one of the most widely
long history dating back to religious as jujutsu (unarmed combat), judo is a influenced by the samurai era, which is known Japanese martial arts. Also known
rituals in ancient times. It was not until unique sport with an emphasis on training evident in both the ritualized behavior and as karatedo (“the way of the empty hand”),
the Edo period (1603-1867) that sumo the mind and spirit rather than solely highly regimented practice sessions at the it was developed in the Ryukyu kingdom
was regarded as a spectator sport. Sumo on winning. Judo involves opponents dojo. Kendo involves a competitor using a (present-day Okinawa) in the 14th century
involves two wrestlers clad in mawashi grappling and throwing one another to win sword to both protect oneself and defeat as a weaponless form of self-defense. It
loincloths pushing, throwing, and tossing the competition. Judo has gained a large the opponent. Basic techniques, including involves three basic movements: thrusts,
down one another to cause the opponent to following internationally and in 1964 was a face strike, hand strike, torso strike, and kicks, and arm strikes. Today, it is both a
step outside the ring or touch the ground recognized as an Olympic sport. a frontal thrust to the neck, are used in a competitive sport and also a form of self-
with any part of the body other than the variety of combinations and applications. defense, with many instructors focusing
soles of the feet. In the past, wooden swords were used, on both kata and kumite. Approximately
but now a bamboo sword is the norm, and 130 million people around the world today
competitors wear bogu, or protective gear, practice karate.
to protect themselves during competitions.
Sumo and Karate photo: AFLO
21 22
JAPANESE PERFORMING ARTS Modern-Day Popular Entertainment
Rakugo
Japan’s Four Traditional Theaters
Rakugo is a form of comedic monologue that relies
heavily on the good delivery of a punchline. In Japanese,
a punchline is referred to as ochi (fall), therefore, rakugo
can be directly translated as “stories that fall.” Dating

Bunraku
back to the Edo period (1603-1867), this comedic
Kabuki narrative is performed by a single storyteller dressed in a
kimono while sitting in the formal seiza kneeling position.
Japan’s traditional kabuki performances Bunraku is Japan’s professional puppet The storyteller uses their voice and upper body to play
are known for their highly elaborate stage theater often featuring stories of pathos different characters and sometimes also uses a fan
props, costumes, and heavy makeup that and tragedy. A single puppet is controlled or a tenugui towel as a prop. While classic rakugo stories
differentiates heroic characters from by three puppeteers to give it life-like passed on from master to disciple are still told today,
villains, as well as movements, while offstage a modern stories may also include satirical takes
the onnagata, or the shamisen (three-stringed on society.
female characters. Japanese instrument)
Characters utilize
the hanamichi, or
player sets the play’s
speed, and the Takarazuka
flower walk tayu, or chanter,
recites the lines Takarazuka is Japan’s all-female musical theater revue
runway, as well
of every part, established in the early 20th century known for its
as a rotating
altering their dramatic stories, elaborate makeup and costumes, and
stage while
voice for big show numbers. Actors specialize in playing either
dancing and
each role. male or female roles; however, it is the otokoyaku, or
performing
male roles, that receive top billing and the most fame.
to music.
Consequently, the training for all actors, but especially
the otokoyaku, is rigorous and competitive. Five troupes

Kyogen
exist within the revue: Hana (Flower), Tsuki (Moon), Yuki
Noh (Snow), Hoshi (Star), and Sora (Cosmos). Each troupe alternates between the Takarazuka
Grand Theater in Hyogo prefecture and the Tokyo Takarazuka Theater in Tokyo, as well as
Noh are Kyogen are performing in local cities and internationally.
masked comedic plays
dramas with performed in
elaborately
dressed
between two
noh plays. The
2.5-Dimensional Musicals
performers who performer wears
In recent years, theater productions based on pop culture
dance and chant to little to no makeup
like manga, anime, and games have become a popular
an accompanying and uses exaggerated
form of entertainment, in particular among Japanese
chorus and hayashi, or facial expressions to tell
youth. These live stage performances were named 2.5D
traditional ensemble of the story as music and stage
by fans because, while the performers are 3D, their
Japanese instruments. It is the oldest props are sparse.
performances are faithful reproductions of the original 2D
existing professional theater in the world, characters and thus are seen to be ‘”in-between” 2D and
dating back to the 14th century. 3D. One of the original 2.5D musicals that brought about
the popularity of these stage performances is The Musical
of the Prince of Tennis, but many internationally adored
anime like Naruto and Sailor Moon have been adapted into
Kabuki, Bunraku, Kyogen photo: @Afro, Noh photo: @JTA 2.5D musicals.
23 24
T R A D I T I O N A L C U LT U R A L
CORNERSTONES Sado
Sado, meaning “the way of tea,” is often
Kimono translated as “tea ceremony.” It involves
a host and guests sharing a moment of
In recent years, the kimono has seen a small togetherness through drinking tea in a
revival. The modern kimono originated in the methodical and reverent way. The tea comes
Heian period (794-1185) when there was a in the form of matcha, or powdered green
shift in sewing technique that allowed for it tea, and the temae (the serving and preparing
to be a garment that could be worn by any of the tea), is determined down to the
body shape. movement of the fingertips. There is meaning
in every step of the preparation. The tradition
The most elaborate kimono are worn at continues to be practiced by different tea
Japanese weddings and at seijin-shiki, schools to this day.
or coming-of-age ceremonies, while light
cotton summer kimono called yukata
are commonly worn to Japanese
summer festivals.

Kado Shodo
Also known as ikebana, kado is the Japanese Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy (meaning “the
art of arranging flowers, and can be translated way of writing”), is practiced across Japan by
as “the way of flowers.” It began as early as the not only professionals but also children as young
16th century with Buddhist flower offerings but as elementary school. Kanji are typically written
spread to decorating households and other with sumi, or black ink, vertically from top to
locations. The most common styles of ikebana bottom and right to left on traditional washi paper.
are rikka (“standing flowers”), seika (“living
flowers”), and nageire (“flung flowers”). There are three main styles: kaisho (block or
All of these styles attempt to find harmony print style), sosho (cursive), and gyosho
between flower and container, and take (semi-cursive). Recently, performance calligraphy
into consideration the display’s surroundings. set to music and dance has become popular.

Since the 20th century, avant-garde ikebana

has also become popular, allowing for the
incorporation of non-living materials like
metal or glass. It remains a popular art
form, and there are estimated to be more
than 3,000 ikebana schools across Japan.
25 26
ANNUAL EVENTS
Japan celebrates many unique national holidays and festivals throughout the year. In
addition, there are countless local festivals. Let’s take a look at some of the largest annual
events in Japan!  

January February March April May June

Oshog atsu: Se t s u bu n : H i n a Matsuri: Sc ho o l Gra duatio n a nd Ko do m o no Hi: Tsu yu:
Ja nuary 1st Ea r l y Fe br u a r y Ma r c h 3 rd E ntra nc e C erem o nies: Ma y 5th Begins in Early June
Ma rc h to A p ril
Oshogatsu is New Year’s Day in Japanese. Setsubun is the day Hina Matsuri, Kodomo no Hi, or In most parts of Japan,
People participate in hatsumode (the first before spring in the old or Doll Festival, For students in Japan, Children’s Day, celebrates the rainy season, or tsuyu,
shrine or temple visit of the year), send lunar calendar. “Fuku wa is a holiday the blooming cherry the healthy growth and typically lasts for several
and receive nengajo (New Year’s greeting uchi, oni wa soto” dedicated to blossoms are accompanied future success of all weeks and runs from the
cards), and eat osechi (traditional food). (fortune in and bad the happiness by big life changes. In children. On this day, beginning of June to the
Children receive otoshidama (New Year’s spirits out) is the chant and healthy March, schools hold families with children middle of July. During
Money) from family and relatives. said while throwing growth of girls. sotsugyo-shiki (graduations) fly carp streamers this time, it is common
Together, families reflect on the past beans around one’s It originated and in April, nyugaku-shiki called koinobori to make teru teru bozu
and look forward to the upcoming year. home. Originally, from a (entrance ceremonies) outside their (tissue paper charms)
members of the purification usher in the new homes. that are hung near
school year.
S eij in no H i: Imperial Court would ritual that used windows in the hopes
S econd Monday o f J anu ar y observe this holiday to paper dolls. that they will stop the rain
dispel bad spirits and and bring sunshine the
Seijin no Hi (Coming of Age Day) honors winter gloom while next day.
those who have turned 18 years old over welcoming the coming
the past year. Children are welcomed into spring. It is believed
adulthood through organized ceremonies that for good health
called seijin-shiki and many people often one must eat the
wear traditional clothing such as kimono number of beans
and a hakama (a pant-like garment worn equivalent to their age.
over a kimono) to celebrate.

July August September October November December

Ta nabata: O bon : Ot s u ki m i : Sp o rts D a y : Shic hi-go -sa n: O misok a:
July 7th Mi d - A u g u s t D at e Va r i es Sec o nd Mo nda y o f No v em ber 15th D e cember 31st
O c to ber
Tanabata, or Star Obon is an annual Otsukimi, meaning Seven (shichi), five (go), On Omisoka, or New Year’s
Festival, is centered observance to moon-viewing, is a Considered a national three (san) are considered Eve, Buddhist temples strike
on a forbidden love welcome and time to appreciate holiday in Japan, Sports lucky numbers in Japan. bells 108 times to symbolize
story between a princess and console the souls the mid-autumn Day commemorates For this reason, families the purification of the 108
a commoner who are forced to meet of ancestors who moon. This tradition the opening of the 1964 with boys aged three and earthly desires. This ringing
only once a year by crossing the Milky are thought to visit dates back to the Summer Olympics held five and girls aged three of the bells is known as joya
Way. Their annual reunion is represented one’s home during Heian period in Tokyo. Many schools and seven visit no kane. Toshikoshi soba, or
by the “cowherd star,” Altair, and the this period. (794-1185). hold their own sports Shinto shrines New Year’s Eve buckwheat
“weaving princess star,” Vega, which Moon-viewing day to help promote to pray for noodles, are eaten on this
appear connected by the Milky Way during parties are often physical and mental good health day because the long
this time of year. On this day, people write accompanied by health. and safety. noodles represent a long life.
wishes on strips of paper and attach them sticky rice cakes
to leaf-bearing bamboo stalks. offered to the moon.

27 28
THE SEASONS OF JAPAN
Zaru Soba ざる蕎麦/Cold Soba

Ichigo 苺/Strawberries

Kakigori Kingyo 金魚/

かき氷/ Goldfish
Fuji 藤/Wisteria
Shaved Ice

Sanshoku Dango 三色団子/ Taiko 太鼓/Drum

Sakura 桜/Cherry Blossom Three-colored Dango

Spring Summer Furin 風鈴/

Japanese springtime is blessed with beautiful Japanese summers begin in June with tsuyu, Windchime
sakura, or cherry blossoms, blooming throughout or the rainy season, signifying the beginning of
the country. As the weather warms, many people hot and humid summer days that keep the
will enjoy the blossoms through hanami, or vegetation lush and provide perfect conditions
sakura viewing, by setting up a picnic under for rice production.
Uchiwa
sakura trees with friends, family, or even
co-workers.
うちわ/Fan For students, summer means a month-long break
from their studies. During summer break, many
Spring is also a time of “new beginnings” in Takenoko 筍 celebrate Umi no Hi (Ocean Day) by spending the
Koinobori Japan and often signifies the start of a new /Bamboo day at the beach to escape the heat. Another
鯉のぼり/ school year for students or a new career for Shoots important summer holiday, Obon, a Buddhist
Carp Streamer working professionals. custom to honor one’s ancestors, is marked
with trips to visit family and with many matsuri,
or festivals, filled with dancing and music.  

Sakura Mochi 桜餅/ Unagi うなぎ/Eel

Cherry Blossom Mochi

Hanabi 花火/
Fireworks
Hinaningyo
雛人形/Hina Doll
Suika
スイカ/ Ayu 鮎/Sweetfish
Watermelon

Yukata 浴衣/
Summer Kimono
29 30
 Kinmokusei キンモクセイ/ Otoshidama お年玉/
Osmanthus Flower Nengajo 年賀状/ New Year’s Money
New Year’s Card
Fukubukuro 福袋/
Kosumosu 秋桜/Cosmos Flower Lucky Bag

Tsuki Usagi 月うさぎ/

Moon Rabbit
Kabocha
カボチャ/
Pumpkin Sunobodo, Suki
スノーボード,
Kurisumasu keki

Fall Winter
Momiji スキー/
クリスマスケーキ/
紅葉/ Snowboarding,
Christmas Cake
Maple Skiing
Leaves

Fall is marked by countless harvest festivals Kagami Japanese winters can be very cold in the
throughout the country while the momiji, or maple north, or very mild in the south. Either way,
Mochi 鏡餅/ Hatsu Hinode
leaves, change to a deep, beautiful red. everyone celebrates together during the
Kuri 栗/ New Year’s nenmatsu-nenshi, or New Year’s holidays. 初日の出/
The full fall moon is enjoyed during Otsukimi, the Chestnuts Mochi The First Sunrise
Kinoko
Moon-Viewing Festival, with small moon-shaped Decoration During Christmas, which is widely seen as a (of the New Year)
きのこ/
tsukimi dango, or rice cakes, and moon-viewing commercial holiday, couples will go on romantic
Mushroom
parties. Like hanami in the spring, many people dates to view the many light displays around the
travel out of their own towns or cities to see country. Both couples and families may enjoy Toshikoshi Soba
koyo, or fall foliage. a fried chicken dinner and Christmas cake 年越し蕎麦/
together. As the new year begins, many New Year’s Eve
participate in osoji, or end-of-year cleaning, Buckwheat
Yaki-imo 焼き芋/ to begin the year with a fresh slate.   Noodles
Baked Sweet Potato

Kaki 柿/ Ozoni お雑煮/ Oden おでん/

Persimmon New Year’s Mochi Soup Fish Cake Soup
Susuki ススキ/
Pampas Grass
Yuzu Buro
柚子風呂/
Yuzu Bath
Sanma 秋刀魚/
Pacific Saury Fish

Osechi Ryori お節料理/

Tsukimi Dango 月見団子/ New Year’s Spread
Mochi for Tsukimi Celebration
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LEARNING RESOURCES & INFO
KORE MO GAKUSHU MANGA DA!

Manga, or Japanese comics, is a fun resource for learning the

Japanese language and expanding your knowledge of Japanese
culture and society. With so many titles to choose from, the
Nippon Foundation’s “Kore mo Gakushu Manga da!” compilation
of recommended works is a great starting point. This project was
started by the Nippon Foundation to introduce a variety of manga
titles to people around the world. https://www.jflalc.org/jle-manga

MINATO

If you’re looking for more structure in your Japanese language

learning, “Minato” is a free e-learning portal with self-study courses
that focus on reading, writing, and listening. Courses range from
three to six months long. Users can also connect with other learners
through the online community. https://minato-jf.jp/Home/Index

STUDY IN JAPAN

If you’re interested in studying abroad in Japan, start planning your

journey here. This site is operated by the Japan Student Services
Organization in cooperation with the Government of Japan. It has
everything you need to know about various study abroad programs
geared towards both Japanese and international students, as well
as resources about life and employment in Japan.
https://www.studyinjapan.go.jp/en/

MEXT SCHOLARSHIP

Every year, the Government of Japan’s Ministry of Education,

Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) sponsors several
scholarships to Japanese universities for research and study. To
learn more about each scholarship, eligibility, and the application
process, visit the Embassy of Japan’s website:
https://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/mext-scholarship-info.html

JAPAN EXCHANGE AND TEACHING (JET) PROGRAM USA

Interested in living and working in Japan as a teacher? The JET

Program is a government-sponsored program that places accepted
applicants in schools across Japan to help teach English for one to
five years. Applications open up every September. For application
requirements and eligibility, visit: https://jetprogramusa.org/

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