Summer

Summer holidays for public school kids in Japan officially starts from "Umi no Hi" or "Sea Day", usually around July 20th.

Summer here, in Osaka, is muggy and hot, hot, HOT! But with air-conditioners and summer treats like ice-coffee, ice cream and watermelon it's not too bad. Daily temperatures often soar in to the high 30ies. (Last week recorded a 39.5 degree day!)

But summer also brings lots of nice things to Japan. For example amazing fireworks displays, lots of traditional festivals and dancing. Below are some shots of the festival held each year at our local school.

From July 20th to the beginning of September the kids are on school holidays. Not bad! (The teachers are probably celebrating too!)