Acknowledging Your Elders.

In Japan, it is extremely important for individuals to acknowledge their elders. It shows respect, therefore, it is disrespectful if it is not done. You do not have to be between a specific age range to be considered an elder though. If there is anyone whom is younger than you, then you would be an elder to them. [Sorry if that kind of seemed confusing]. The term or word, "Gozaimasu," is used to acknowledge one's elders, it does not and is not added to every thing that a person says though, only certain words or phrases, such as good morning, and thank you. In the mornings, when I arrive to class, before I enter, I bow down and say, "Ohayo Gozaimasu," which means "Good Morning." But, take note of the "Gozaimasu." It is used, indicating that my Japanese Teacher is older than me, [But of course, who would not know that], but it also conveys my respect towards her. If I were to not say "Gozaimasu," I'd probably get scold at, well something like that. It just shows disrespect.

Did You Know That..

In Japan, they have era's. It is determined by the Emperor. Depending on how long the Emperor reigns for, that is how long the era is. Right now, it is the "Heisei Era," therefore, the Emperor's name is Heisei.

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Hm, as I recall, I think it is Cherry Blossom Season right now, or it's nearby. The Japanese pronunciation of Cherry Blossom is "Sakura." In Japan, during this time of the year, the Cherry Blossom Tress begin to Blossom. It starts first in the South of Japan, and then moves up to Northern Japan. When it begins, there are "Hanami," which is Cherry Blossom Viewing. Usually, people get together with their family and friends to view the trees. They usually bring food and sit under the trees and have a picnic, while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Cherry Blossoms. [Well, at least from what I can remember].
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In Japan, greeting people is extremely important! Just saying a simple "Hello," or "Good Morning," means a lot. It is customary to do so when seeing acquaintances. Therefore, it is bad, when you do not acknowledge others.