It is gradually turning into spring in Tokyo. New plants are beginning to sprout en masse, and I can feel a new energy filling the air. For the Japanese people, spring is usually associated with cherry blossoms, but right now we are still enjoying plum blossoms. Ume, plum has a fresh and sweet scent than cherry blossoms. In addition, compared to cherry blossoms, ume was often planted in castles and fortless area in Japan because its fruits are edible. I hope this is the year that COVID-19 will be over and the war is over so quickly, and then we can enjoy Hanami (cherry blossom viewing party) in peace!

Nagoshi no Harae, summer celebration day
June 1st was the first day to open an icehouse in ancient Japan and people ate ice or rice cakes to prepare the hot summer.