Japan is made up of four main

islands and
dozens of smaller isles. It is
part of the continent of Asia
and lies on the Pacific “Ring of
Fire.” The capital of Japan is
Tokyo.

The flag of Japan

consists of a red sun in
the middle of a white
field.

The flag is called “Hinomaru,” which means “circle of the sun.”

 “Sakura,” or cherry blossoms, bloom on cherry trees.
They are a symbol of spring in Japan.

Once a bud opens, there is a lovely display of pale

pink flowers. When they flutter to the
ground, it is known as “sakura fubuki,”
or sakura snow.

Bonsai means “planted in a container.”

It is an art form that creates a
miniaturized representation of
nature.

Bonsai are kept in a pot and have

their branches regularly trimmed
and shaped.
 The “Nihonmatsu Chochin Matsuri
Lantern Festival” is one of the
largest in Japan.

Japanese paper lanterns

are usually lit by an electrical bulb
and voltage, though battery
lanterns are also found.