In order to avoid misunderstanding and conflicts with local people, simply try to be polite and tolerant and never speak vile of Japan and Kanagawa. It is not recommended to make noise or talk loudly to another person or on the phone in public places. Eating on the go is also not common here. For this purpose, it is better to visit some café. Most probably, you will be impressed by the tidiness of local streets, especially taking into consideration that trash bins are quite rare. The disciplined approach of Japanese people is the key here – no one will even think of throwing litter to the pavement or some less visible place. Tourists should also refrain from such actions.
The so-called Golden Week is very popular in Japan. April 29 and the following four days off in May are a typical time for travel and various family activities. If you plan to visit Kanagawa during this time of the year, be prepared to find all tourist areas filled with the Japanese from other prefectures. It is recommended to book tickets and a hotel room in advance because it will be virtually impossible to find a free room in almost every city in Kanagawa at the end of spring.
Ganjitsu or the Japanese New Year is the holiday that is celebrated on January 1. Traditionally, this is a family holiday, but there are festive events and celebrations in all cities across Japan. It is a very important holiday for the country. As a rule, people do not work starting from December 29 and until January 3. Many companies and state institutions are closed during the holidays, and the number of vacationers is on par with the Golden Week. Perhaps, the parade of kites, which is traditionally organized every year, is the most spectacular event in the schedule. Don’t forget to try special New Year food and purchase a lucky talisman in a local temple as a souvenir.
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