Wondering what to expect at your child’s nyuugakushiki? Read on for a primer on school entrance ceremonies in Japan! While much of the world starts school in September, Japan’s academic year begins with the sakura (cherry blossoms) in early to mid-April. And, accordingly, the special school entrance ceremony, called nyuugakushiki in Japanese, is held in early April in Japan, a few weeks after March graduation ceremonies are held. Just as graduations have music, speeches and formal attire, school entrance ceremonies in Japan too come with a typical format and set of expectations for all involve...
Savvy Tokyo
The moment has arrived to unveil this season’s trendy palette so you can welcome spring’s colorful awakening. As we bid farewell to winter (hooray!) and stow away our dark-colored garments, we find ourselves eager to embrace vibrant Tokyo fashion this spring 2024 by reintroducing colors into our wardrobe. Last spring, the focus was on pastel hues such as refreshing blues and soft lavenders. This preference is understandable, as many of us naturally seek solace and gravitate toward gentle tones amid life’s chaos. This spring, anticipate the resurgence of pastels, albeit with a hint of bluish un...
Savvy Tokyo
Cherry blossom season is here! Make the most out of this short but sweet season with a good old hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnic with friends and family. Îf you're looking for more ideas, there's the Bunkyo Sakura Festival, Hanami at bills event and our roundup of all the best cherry blossom themed events in the city. Happy spring! Make the most out of spring! We’re back with our weekly roundup of family-friendly Tokyo area events to help you maximize this season. Let’s head out to enjoy the warmer weather, blossoming flowers and see the city come alive. Out & AboutOutdoor Day Japan 2024...
Savvy Tokyo
The temperatures are steadily rising, the winter coats are being traded for lighter jackets and the buds on cherry blossom trees will start to open in about a week from now on, meaning it will soon be time for our favorite Japanese tradition: hanami. Translated as “flower viewing,” the hanami cultural ritual is so much more than just watching the pretty flowers. It’s an experience; a spiritual metaphor for the beautiful but fleeting nature of life; and above all, a chance to get outside and eat, drink and be merry under the cover of beautiful pink and white blossoms. In the past, we told you a...
Savvy Tokyo
Creative ways to get out and be yourself around Tokyo, from everyday activities to annual celebrations. According to Loann Halden, VP of communications at the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, Japan is fortunate to have a relatively queer-friendly culture. Compared to many other APAC region nations, Japan’s government and society are welcoming to sexual minorities and take measures to make the community feel safe and accepted. However, tight-lipped Tokyo can still be a hard place to be 100% of your authentic self for anyone, much less members of the LGBTQ+ community. We’ve rounded up a ...
Savvy Tokyo
Japan is famous for its facial sheet masks, but with all the choices out there these days, how can we tell them apart? Japanese facial sheet masks are beloved by beauty enthusiasts all over the world. Some people incorporate these face-shaped cloths soaked in various skin-rejuvenating ingredients into their skincare routines every day. Whether you have or haven’t tried a facial sheet mask before, here’s our Savvy Tokyo deep dive into the history and benefits of this go-to skincare product. Read on to find out some of the most common ingredients in these sheet masks and how they can benefit you...
Savvy Tokyo
Cherry blossom season is right around the corner! While the forecast is a little bit earlier this year than last, it's still a great excuse to go outdoors all the same. Why not spend a Sunday morning at the Tokyo Outside Festival or watch the Shibuya Omotesando Women's Run? For treasure hunters, there's the Akasaka Antique Market. Celebrate spring and cherry blossom season with a day out on the town. Here are some family-friendly Tokyo area events we’ve found that’ll surely keep you out and about. Be it musicals, cherry blossoms or sports, we’ve got you covered! Travel Back in TimeOn The 20th ...
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Savvy Tokyo
White Day in Japan isn't always what it's advertised. Valentine’s Day is over and done with. That means those lucky men who got honmei (heartfelt) chocolates and gifts on February 14th have been diligently working away to make sure to repay the favor come March 14th, White Day in Japan. Right? A purely commercial holiday that started in the 1970s in Japan and spawned similar celebrations across Asia, White Day in recent years has become a contentious holiday for women. In terms of the giri (obligatory) chocolate side of things, White Day is easy enough. Many companies that celebrate Valentine’...
Savvy Tokyo
Let's enjoy the warmer weather and sunnier days by exploring Tokyo and the greater Tokyo area. From attending outdoor charity events like Peace on Earth to celebrating man's best friend at Red Brick Dog Walk, spring is when Tokyo comes alive. As we slowly but surely put away our winter coats, we’re just days away from cherry blossoms blooming all over the city. Visit these family and pet-friendly Tokyo area events to make the most out of your weekend outings! Have a great week ahead! Let Your Voice Be HeardVote For Your Favorite GaijinPot 6-Word Video EntryNow that submissions are closed, make...
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