More senior citizens in Japan are going back to university. Many are in their 50s, 60s, or older and want to learn new skills. Some hope to prepare for a second career after retirement.

Cherry blossoms brighten Japan’s spring landscape with their delicate pink hues, and they also find their way into kitchens across the country, where cooks transform these fleeting petals into flavorful ingredients for both sweet and savory dishes. 

Cherry blossom petals and hanami feel timeless, but this spring tradition has a clear story. The first hanami “pictures” were not phone photos. They were written records, poems, and paintings made over 1,200 years ago at the imperial courts in Japan.

If you are interested in history, you may already know that the Jomon Period stands out as a time when people carefully learned to live in close harmony with nature.

In Aichi Prefecture, where bold flavors and everyday comfort food shine, Sugi Confectionery (Sugi Seika) quietly steals the spotlight with simple, crunchy snacks full of local charm.

Cherry blossom trees, also known as sakura, hold a special place in Japan. People called sakuramori protect and care for these trees. Sakuramori means “cherry blossom guardians” in Japanese. They work hard to keep old trees healthy and plant new ones. Their efforts ensure everyone can enjoy the pink blooms each spring, keeping them healthy and people happy.