Marine Day

📣 Traveler notes

Japan is an island nation in East Asia, characterized by a blend of traditional values and modern life. Visitors should note the country's deep cultural emphasis on inner balance and natural beauty.

• New Year (Oshōgatsu): A major holiday (Dec 30 - Jan 3) that can lead to widespread closures.
• Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing): A major March/April festival leading to very crowded tourist areas.
• Golden Week (Late April to Early May): A multi-holiday period causing extremely high costs for travel and lodging.
• Summer Festivals: Local festivals (matsuri) and fireworks (hanabi) often take place during the heat of summer.
• Obon Festival: A significant mid-summer festival period.
• General Manners: Be aware of specific local rules, such as using provided hot towels (o-shibori) and paying at the counter.
• Use chopsticks for most food, but spoons are appropriate for main-dish soups, curry rice, and fried rice. When requesting service, use 'sumimasen' (excuse me). Note that payment is typically made at the counter, and tipping is not customary. When using chopsticks, avoid placing them upright in rice or passing food directly from one person's pair to another's.