Culture Day

📣 Traveler notes

Japan is an East Asian island nation known for its unique culture, influenced by its insular geography and ancient connections to China. Despite its status as a densely populated, modern nation, Japanese society maintains an emphasis on tranquility, balance, and tradition, alongside a legendary work ethic.

• New Year (Oshōgatsu) is the most significant holiday, often leading to mass travel and temporary shutdowns from late December to early January.
• Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) festivals occur in March/April, drawing large crowds, particularly in historical cities like Kyoto.
• Golden Week (April 29 - May 5) is a period of four public holidays and mass travel, resulting in high costs and crowded transport.
• Summer is marked by numerous local festivals (matsuri) and spectacular fireworks (hanabi), including Tanabata on July 7th.
• Major festivals, such as the Awa Odori, are celebrated during the Obon period.
• The Japanese New Year (Oshōgatsu) is a prime time for travel, causing peak demand for accommodation and airfare.
• Dining: Use chopsticks for most Japanese meals. Do not stick chopsticks upright in rice. Avoid passing items from one person's chopsticks to another's, or using them to move dishes or point. It is customary to wipe hands with the provided hot towel (o-shibori) and to drink soups/broths directly from the bowl. Soy sauce should not be added to plain rice. Service: Wait to be acknowledged by staff; if necessary, quietly say "sumimasen" or raise a hand. Pay at the counter upon departure; do not leave payment on the table. Tipping is not customary.