My recommendation of Japanese culture

My recommendation of Japanese culture relates to nature. In Japan, we have a custom called “Hanami”(Flower viewing). “Hanami” is going out to places such as parks to enjoy seeing cherry blossoms. It is said that its origin is noble men’s event in the Nara period (about 1300 years ago). Cherry blossoms are planted everywhere. For example riversides, school yards and temples. Cherry blossoms bloom from March to April. We go out to do “Hanami” with family, friends or colleagues. We often spread a sheet under cherry blossoms, and enjoy drinking, eating and talking. Therefore, in March and April, some parks are full of people who enjoy the coming of spring. Enjoying “Hanami” in the evening is also good way. It is called “Yozakura” (夜桜), and cherry blossoms are illuminated. We can see different faces of them, and enjoy aesthetic atmosphere.

In autumn, we have “Momiji gari” (going maple viewing). It is also one of Japanese popular customs as well as “Hanami”. In autumn, most leaves turn into red and yellow, and they create beautiful scenery in fields and mountains. Kyoto is famous spot to go “Momiji gari” in Japan, so many people visit Kyoto to see beautiful and old-fashioned scenery. I would like to introduce one of my favorite places in Kyoto. It is “Jissouin” (実相院). We can see rare scenery there. It is famous for “Yuka momiji” (床もみじ). “Yuka momiji” is the scenery that “Momiji” which has turned into red is reflected on the polished black floor. People enjoy the reflected scenery. The best timing we can see that scenery is noon. Even if leaves does not turn into red, we can enjoy “Yuka midori” (床みどり). The green leaves are reflected on the black floor, and it is shining in emerald color. If you interested in this place, please visit there while you are in Japan.