spring

It's almost here! The winter is finally fading, and in Japan, there are no shortage of tell-tale signs of Spring. The ume are blossoming, and of course the sakura are the main event, but almost as important are the first shoots of spring vegetables that begin to peak out of the ground. In Tokyo, these vegetables make their appearance in March, though, you most likely won't have the opportunity to pick them fresh from the ground. That's not to slight the ease and convenience of your neighborhood vegetable stand, which should have these spring veggies out in full force in the next few weeks.

Many Japanese people are suffering from hay fever, some very seriously.

Yes, I am the one of them.

Runny nose, itchy eyes and non-stop sneezing...it's just terrible!!!
In order to avoid hay fever, I try to protect my eyes and nose from the pollen by wearing glasses and masks... but I have even no idea if it is working or not.

Spring is the season for flowers, flowers and more flowers. If you are in Hiroshima the Flower Festival is happening during Golden Week (GW).

Otherwise there is the countryside for various festivals. There is no shortage in my area (Sera). Here is a list of some off the top of my head: