japanese american cultural terms & traditions

New Year's Tradition

During the New Year’s Holiday in Japan, it is a tradition to play hanestuki, a badminton type game. Participants use a hagoita (beautifully decorated racket that is also a good luck charm), to hit the hane (ball), which is made from a soapberry nut and pretty bird feathers. The act of hitting the hane is said to help expel bad luck.

“Sakura Matsuri”

Translation: Cherry Blossom Festival

Warriors considered the cherry blossom to be a symbol of a life to live fully, no matter how short. The Japanese celebrate its arrival in spring with an annual festival where friends gather under the trees to enjoy sake (rice wine), sing songs, and celebrate the coming of spring.

"Hanami"

Translation: Cherry Blossom Viewing

During spring, Hanami (hana = flower, mi = see) Picnics and Cherry Blossom (or sakura) festivals are held all over Japan.

The custom of Hanami has existed since the 7th century as aristocrats wrote poems and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the Sakura. During Japan’s feudal period, the Sakura became the symbol and code of the Samurai. At the start of the Meiji-era, Emperor Meiji insisted that all Sakura trees be cut down so their would be no reminder of the feudal period. Fortunately, the tradition has returned and groups of friends, family and co-workers enjoy the Hanami by having picnics under the blooming Sakura trees.

“Kodomo no Hi”

Translation: Children’s Day

Traditionally celebrated on May 5th, this day celebrates children. Families fly koinobori or carp-shaped streamers outside their homes, eat rice cakes or kashiwamochi and display warriors in their traditional armor to represent bravery and strength.