Pre-reading questions:
- Have you ever visited Japan during a public holiday? Which holiday was it, and what was your experience like?
- Which public holiday in Japan do you think is the most important? Why?
Vocabulary:
- tradition /truh-DISH-uhn/
- current /KUR-uhnt/
- gather /GATH-er/
- beyond /bee-OND/
- community /kuh-MYOO-ni-tee/
[noun] – a belief, principle, or way of acting that people in a particular society or group have continued to follow for a long time, or all of these beliefs, etc. in a particular society or group
We have a tradition of baking gingerbread cookies together every holiday season.
[adjective] – of the present time
The current weather forecast predicts rain all week, so I suggest bringing an umbrella with you.
[verb] – When people or animals gather, they come together in a group
We are going to gather some firewood for the campfire tonight.
[preposition] – outside or after (a stated limit)
The view from the top of the mountain was beyond breathtaking.
[noun] – the people living in one particular area or people who are considered as a unit because of their common interests, social group, or nationality
He’s well-known in his community.
Article reading:
One of the key events of the day is the public appearance of the Emperor and other members of the Imperial Family on the balcony of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Thousands of well-wishers gather to catch a glimpse of the royals and offer congratulations. In addition, the Imperial Guard holds a special parade, adding to the festive atmosphere. Beyond the celebrations in Tokyo, communities across Japan organize their own festivities to mark the occasion. From local parades to traditional performances, these events highlight the importance of community and unity.
In conclusion, the Emperor’s birthday is an important national holiday in Japan that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate their cultural heritage and traditions. It is a day of unity and community, where people come together to honor their past while looking forward to the future. As we navigate the complexities of an increasingly globalized world, it is important to remember the value of tradition and the importance of coming together to celebrate shared values and ideals.
Comprehension questions
- When is the Emperor’s birthday in Japan?
- What happens during the Emperor’s birthday celebrations in Tokyo?
- Why do thousands of people gather in Tokyo on this day?
- What other types of celebrations take place in Japan on the Emperor’s birthday?
- How does the celebration of the Emperor’s birthday promote unity and community in Japan?
Discussion questions
- How does it make you feel when you participate in or attend a festival or event that highlights the importance of community and unity, as is done during the Emperor’s birthday celebration in Japan?
- How do you react when you witness a public appearance by a member of royalty or a national leader in your country?
- If the Emperor’s birthday celebration were to be canceled for one year, what impact do you think it would have on the people of Japan?
- Do you believe that celebrations like the Emperor’s birthday help to promote national pride and identity?
- Why do you think Japan places such great importance on the Emperor’s birthday celebration?