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2008-01-04

[Cultural Seed of Knowledge / Coming of Age Ceremony]

The second Monday of January is the Coming of Age day. It is celebrated when one reaches the age of 20, and is thereafter considered an adult who can live on his/her own. On this day, many local authorities hold ceremonies for the new adult. During these ceremonies many women wear kimonos called “furisode”, a kimono with long sleeves, which signifies that she is unmarried.

[Nara Lifestyle Guide / How to call the police and dialogue model]
http://www.nifs.or.jp/mobile/eng/guide/emergency/emergency02.html

[Seasonal Life Tips / How to use Yutanpo, hot water-bag type low cost heater]

A hot water-bag heater is made from pottery, metal or plastic and holds hot water. It is hot if touched directly; therefore it should be handled with a thick cloth or a blanket. In the past, it was primarily put under the futon in order to warm up one’s feet. Nowadays it has been touted as a low cost heater that doesn’t pollute the air. It has come to be used in living rooms and offices because of this. It can be bought at supermarkets and stores at the price of about 1000 yen.