Sunflower
using photoshop
Noren are short cloth curtains hung on the entrances to Japanese shops. Beginning with the scraps of cloth on hanging screens used in Zen temples to ward off cold, merchant houses since the Edo Period(1603-1867) have put their names on noren and used them in business. The word “noren,” is also used to signify good will and credit of a shop, as its symbol. In opening a shop, one is said “to hang out the noren” and when establishing branch stores, the saying is “to divide the noren.”
via: Key Aspects of Japan
We celebrate Children’s Day (May 5th) by putting up carp streamers.
Hanami (Flower-viewing)
Hanami is going out to places such as parks to enjoy leisurely while appreciating the beautifully bloomed cherry blossoms. The custom in Japan, in March and April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, is to do hanami with family, colleagues from work, or friends. People spread a mat under the cherry blossoms, drink sake, sing songs, and enjoy the coming of spring. In cities, viewing cherry trees in the evening is especially popular. Against the spring night sky, the beauty of the cherry blossoms in full bloom is abundantly emphasized.
via: Key Aspects of Japan