Coming of Age Day

📣 Traveler notes

Japan is an East Asian country known for its blend of deep tradition and modern life. Japanese culture emphasizes balance, tranquility, and natural beauty, influences which remain visible even in fast-paced urban centers.

• New Year (Oshōgatsu) is the major holiday period (approx. Dec 30 - Jan 3), leading to high prices for transport and airfare.
• Hanami (flower viewing) in March/April, focused on cherry blossoms (sakura), causes extreme crowd density in major tourist sites.
• Golden Week (April 29 - May 5) is a period of multiple public holidays, resulting in extremely crowded trains and inflated prices.
• Summer features local festivals (matsuri) and fireworks (hanabi), with specific dates like Tanabata (July 7).
• When dining, remember that it is customary to use chopsticks (hashi). Do not place chopsticks vertically in rice or pass food from your chopsticks to another person's. For cleanliness, return disposable chopsticks to their wrapper. Soups and broths are often consumed directly from the bowl. To signal staff in a restaurant, use the phrase "sumimasen" ("excuse me"). Payment should be made at the counter upon departure; tipping is not customary.