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Previous blog archives from 2006 - mid-February 2014.

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Seasonal stories

Japanese seasons are part of the country's culture, folklore and traditions. The four seasons are observed diligently and many linguistic and social terms are based on this aspect of Japan.


Koromo Gae "Koromo Gae" is a Japanese term that refers to the practice of changing one's clothing according to the seasons. The term itself is derived from the combination of two words: "koromo," which means "clothing" or "garment," and "gae," which means "change" or "replacement." In this blog,Yamamoto sensei introduces a story about changing clothes. 衣替えSeasonal change of clothing By...
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The silkworm The month May brings warmer weather in Japan and is one of the most comfortable seasons of the year. It also affects nature and insects. One of these, the silkworm, is introduced here by Yamamoto sensei. 蚕Silkworms in Japan By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は蚕を紹介します。  蚕とはクワの葉を食べて育ち、絹の糸の原料を作ることができる昆虫です。 5月の後半は、小さな蚕がクワの葉を食べ始める頃です。  日本は100年位前に、まだ発展していなかった頃、この蚕を大量に育て、絹を作っていました。...
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Asakusa Shrine Yamamoto sensei introduces a heroic event that takes place in Tokyo. Do you know about the Asakusa Shrine in Tokyo? If yes, then this is a must-see event in your calendar! 三社祭Sanja Matsuri Festival By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は「三社祭」を紹介します。  毎年、5月の第3土曜に、皆さんもよく知っている東京の浅草で行われる祭りです。  神輿を100人くらいで交代しながら、町の中を持ち運びます。 神輿とは、小さな神社のことです。 この時、神輿を激しく振りながら運びます。これをするのは重いので大変です。 しか...
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This traditional style of fishing There are some traditional methods of doing things in Japan that are also tourist draws. This traditional style of fishing is one of those. Here Yamamoto sensei takes a little time to introduce this fascinating culture. 鵜飼Cormorant Fishing By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は「鵜飼」を紹介します。  鵜飼とは鵜という水鳥を使ってアユという魚をとる方法です。 1300年以上前から行われています。 毎年5月11日より、日本で最も有名な鵜...
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Japanese Event in May If you happen to journey through Japan during the month of May, you will undoubtedly be met with a stunning spectacle of vibrant streamers adorning the rivers and residences throughout the country. For a more comprehensive understanding of the origins and significance of this tradition, please refer to Yamamoto Sensei's blog post found here. 端午の節句Boys' Day Celebration...
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