Difference

Last night, I was staying up very late with turning on TV. The channel was 1ch, that is NHK, and it was on Japanese culture aired in English. The program is as follows:

http://www.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/japanology_e.html

When I was in the UK, I was asked about Japanese culture, and most of questions were about the differences between their culture and ours. I felt that way especially when I was asked by the students from developed countries. I maybe sensed a feeling that 'you are different from us'. At the same time, I tended to feel that I am also from a developed country, and I know a lot of information on politics, economy, pop culture and the like.

The program is on about rice balls, and they will introduce ceramics. I thought "yeah, those are parts of Japanese culture, but there are other things in this modern society". For example, the atomsphere of being irritable in the train. We can see it not only in Tokyo, but also maybe in London or New York. Or maybe not. I think it would be interesting to compare the atomsphere in the train when it is so crowded with people. Which country shows the tolerance to others?

Setsubun, 3rd of Feburary

Today is Setsubun, and our family, Father, Mother and me did it this evening. We threw beans from our house with saying 'demons go out, lucks come inside!' I have checked the Wikipedia website which explains this in English.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Setsubun

I remember this event when I was a kid. I played around to get snacks and candies when my grandfather threw them with turning off the lights. Now, it was a good memory and I really pray our happiness stays forever. And I thank for my parents' love.

Snow in my town

Today it snows heavily in my hometown. This is a view from my room's window, and it is cold as same as Leeds' winter season. Public transportation is always influenced by snow, and according to media, there are some delays.

The first week of Feburary is a season for 12 years old kids to take entrance examination of famous, highly competitive junior high school. In fact, I did it almost 25 years ago. I can recall the feeling to visit the places to take exams... Hope the kids are doing their best.