April 1st

Happy new year?

Hello from Tokyo!

April 1st

Happy April Fools day? Not in Japan. April first often marks the beginning in Japan. It marks the beginning of Spring and much more.

For example, the start of my new job is on April first, despite being on a Thursday. April 1st is the beginning of the school year in Japan and work for new joiners (often new grads). At school there is often a nyugakushiki  (New school year celebration 入学式) and at work a nyushashiki (new joiner celebration 入社式）

Rakuten’s nyushashiki

Throughout the week, I have seen people taking photos in front of sakura trees and school and work materials (notebooks, pens, backpacks, etc.) for sale at stores.

“Smile!”

Furthermore, a lot of people move during the month of March in preparation for a new school year or job. I am one of those many people and have just moved to Tokyo.

While the official new year in Japan is on January 1st, in my opinion, April 1st would be the second “new year.”

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, my work is remote for now. So on top of beginning a new job in a new country, starting a job remotely is quite intimidating. Scratch that, I am much more nervous than I would like to admit. Let’s leave it at that.

computer delivery

My first two days are dedicated to “IT setup” so I guess I will see what is in store...

not really ready for work

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unsolicited recommendation #1

Yogurt. Japanese people love yogurt.

There is a plethora of yogurt and yogurt related products. For example, candies to protein powders. But today, I would like to introduce, nomuyoguruto (drinkable yogurt, 飲むヨーグルト). 

In my eyes, drinkable yogurt is something I had as a child in the US and primarily see as a children’s product. In Japan, however, there seems to be less of an image of adults drinking such yogurt. It is something enjoyed by anyone and there are quite a lot of drinkable yogurt brands and flavors.

One of the best, in my humble opinion, is OHAYO Zeitaku Kajitsu drinkable yogurt. It has quite a bit of fruit in it, which makes it stand out from the rest. 

According to the label, it is the number one best seller in Japan, which I do believe. In addition, the label states:

The expensive luxury is not necessary, but I think that the everyday small luxury enriches your heart.

You know, I have to agree with that statement. This product is definitely that expensive luxury. No matter which flavor you try, I am certain it will be delicious.