Vernal Equinox Day

📣 Traveler notes

Japan is an East Asian island nation combining a traditional culture, emphasizing natural beauty and tranquility, with modern, bustling city life. The country is known for its diligent work ethic.

• Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) occurs in March or April and attracts large crowds.
• Golden Week (late April to early May) is a cluster of public holidays, resulting in high costs and crowded travel.
• Oshōgatsu (New Year) is the major holiday period, typically from late December to early January.
• Summer features local festivals (matsuri) and fireworks displays (hanabi).
• Upon seating, restaurants generally provide a hot towel (o-shibori).
• If needing staff attention, it is polite to use 'sumimasen' (excuse me).
• When dining, use chopsticks for most Japanese food. Avoid passing items between chopsticks, standing them upright in rice, or letting them rest pointing down in a bowl. Use spoons for main-dish soups, curry, and fried rice. Pay at the counter, as tipping is not customary. Be mindful not to overpour soy sauce.