Tag Archives: culture

Coming of Age Day — 成人の日

Posted on January 12, 2015 by superhappyawesome

Happy Coming of Age Day! Today is a national holiday in Japan. Everyone who turned twenty in the past year gets all dressed up and goes to a big ceremony to celebrate. There’s lots of partying after, since 20 is … Continue reading →

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Gunma-chan Birthday Cake!

Posted on October 8, 2014 by superhappyawesome

This little guy appeared on my desk at work yesterday as a belated birthday treat! My first time at my visit school since the day, and I can’t believe my lovely coworker remembered, let alone went to the effort. So … Continue reading →

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Starbucks Coffee Jelly Frappuccino and the History of Coffee in Japan

Posted on August 25, 2014 by superhappyawesome

Well, dear Starbucks lovers, it’s been a while since I reviewed the Green Siren’s newest offering. In fact, we’re already on the second (maybe third?) drink since the Happy Yellow Fresh Banana Frappuccino. This was already the 6th rollout of … Continue reading →

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Happy Tanabata!

Posted on July 7, 2011 by superhappyawesome

Today is Tanabata here in Japan! It is also known as the Star Festival, 七夕 or simply 7/7, and is the holiday of star-crossed lovers. It’s a bit romantic and fun, with lots of great decorations. When we did holiday … Continue reading →

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Enkai! 宴会！えんかい！

Posted on March 10, 2011 by superhappyawesome

After the Graduation Ceremony last week, the teachers celebrated by having an Enkai. 　宴会（えんかい）means a banquet or a party, and they can range from boring staid affairs to raging infernos of drunken debauchery. It’s considered rude to pour your own … Continue reading →

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Setsubun!

Posted on February 3, 2011 by superhappyawesome

Today is Setsubun! Our textbook at school translates this as “The Annual Bean Throwing Festival” and states that it is to celebrate the coming of Spring. Japanese people celebrate by  throwing roasted soybeans, usually at the father of the household … Continue reading →

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