The longest day of the year has arrived, which means it’s the
peak of summer season here in Japan! You wouldn’t think so considering grey
skies dominate and beaches are yet to officially open. I always thought it
amusing that even if it was a very hot day, 99% of Japanese people won’t go to
the beach if it’s not officially beach season. I’ve been asked countless times if
South Africa experiences four seasons, and thinking it a silly question I’d
always say an astounding yes. After living here in Japan for nearly two years I
think I view that question in an entirely different sense. It has allowed me to
experience each season’s distinct foods, flora and festivals in all of their
cultural pride. It’s honestly a pride
and distinction unlike anything I’ve ever experienced at home. The year is
actually further divided into 24 “sekki” which are given names that translate
into things like “summer solstice”, “small heat” and “large heat”. These
pictures I snapped in April can act as a final goodbye to Japanese spring and a
hello to the “large heat” that will soon grace us with its sweaty presence!
