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Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- splashy /SPLASH-ee/
- deem /deem/
- catch a glimpse (of something/someone) /KACH-uh-GLIMPS-uhv-SUHM-thing/
- glory /GLAWR-ee/
- splendid /SPLEN-did/
[adjective] – attracting attention, particularly colorful or showy
The dress was printed with splashy flowers.
[verb] – to consider or judge something in a particular way
Several factors are deemed necessary to produce a good output of the project.
[idiom] – to see someone or something very briefly or suddenly
Many had waited for hours to catch a glimpse of him.
[noun] – great beauty, or something special or extremely beautiful, that gives great pleasure
They want to restore the castle to its former glory.
[adjective] – excellent, or beautiful and impressive
We had a splendid time during our Amsterdam trip.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The splashy Autumn leaves known as “koyo” show up around mid-November to early December in Japan. The country is deemed as one of the top sightseeing spots during the autumn season. Japan is filled with parks and gardens perfect for admiring the fall atmosphere. Here are the three recommended places for viewing koyo in and around Japan’s capital, Tokyo.
• Yoyogi Park
Just a short walk from Harajuku Station in central Tokyo, Yoyogi Park is a perfect choice. It is one of the massive parks in the capital and shares space with Meiji Shrine. It consists of acres of trees, trails, water features, and flowers, making it a great place to spend an afternoon admiring the koyo.
• Icho Namiki Avenue
Tokyo’s downtown area is one of the finest spots to catch a glimpse of koyo. Icho Namiki Avenue has breathtaking gingko trees that bloom from late November to early December. This strip is perfect for a walk, but you can also sit back, relax, and munch at the Royal Garden Cafe while feasting your eyes with beautiful autumn leaves.
• Rikugien Gardens
An Edo-style garden built in the early 1700s and restored to its former glory in 1878, Rikugien is one of the oldest parks in Tokyo. The garden is lit up with illumination displays. A small admission fee of ¥300 is required.
Japan has always been a great destination for tourists, whether to just see its splendid sightseeing spots, or learn about its rich culture. In addition to these picturesque places, the country’s culture and traditions are what make Japan unique from other countries.
• Yoyogi Park
Just a short walk from Harajuku Station in central Tokyo, Yoyogi Park is a perfect choice. It is one of the massive parks in the capital and shares space with Meiji Shrine. It consists of acres of trees, trails, water features, and flowers, making it a great place to spend an afternoon admiring the koyo.
• Icho Namiki Avenue
Tokyo’s downtown area is one of the finest spots to catch a glimpse of koyo. Icho Namiki Avenue has breathtaking gingko trees that bloom from late November to early December. This strip is perfect for a walk, but you can also sit back, relax, and munch at the Royal Garden Cafe while feasting your eyes with beautiful autumn leaves.
• Rikugien Gardens
An Edo-style garden built in the early 1700s and restored to its former glory in 1878, Rikugien is one of the oldest parks in Tokyo. The garden is lit up with illumination displays. A small admission fee of ¥300 is required.
Japan has always been a great destination for tourists, whether to just see its splendid sightseeing spots, or learn about its rich culture. In addition to these picturesque places, the country’s culture and traditions are what make Japan unique from other countries.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- What is the weather like in Japan during autumn?
- Do you always go koyo viewing during the autumn season? Please share your experience.
- How would you share your knowledge of Japan’s culture to foreigners?
- In your opinion, what is the best tourist spot in Japan?
- What are some ways to preserve a country’s beautiful and historical destinations?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- autumn
- sightseeing
- breathtaking
- restore
- picturesque