Cherry Blossoms ＆ New Workers

Dear all,
This is WA-SHOKU management office.

We are going to update information about business career and customs in Japan. I hope you will find our information helpful.

It’s been spring for a while in Japan. Many schools and companies in Japan start their new year on April. After the cold winter, it feels like a nice time to start something new for all of us.

l, there are two things we find in all over Japan.

First one is “cherry blossoms.”
From end of March to the beginning of April, cherry blossoms bloom gradually from south to north. How the cherry blossoms bring in spring from south to north is called “Cherry Blossom Front.”
When you see cherry trees are shooting buds, you can see in people’s face how excited they are.
Since the season of cherry blossoms is as short as one week, they have to hastily enjoy blossoms with friends, coworkers, and others!
However it is common for people to watch cherry blossoms only a bit, and they move on to enjoy nice dishes and a cup of sake under the tree.
There is even an old saying: “dumplings are preferable to flowers.”
It is a custom typical in Japan to enjoy having good time and nice food with people around you.

Second one is “new workers”
On April, you can see a lot of young workers in brand new suits.
They are the new workers hired on April.
Many companies have welcoming ceremony for new employees on April. It is a starting point for many people.
Coworkers enrolled at the same time are called “Douki,”which literally means same period. Douki workers tend to mean more than just coworkers in Japanese society.

When you see Douki worker is working hard, you feel like you have to work harder.
When Douki is feeling down, you want to give support.
Sometimes you call Douki workers are to meet up and have fun.
“Douki” workers will be in many parts of your life even after the orientation is over.

Sometimes they can be rivals, but they can also be close friends.
It is also very encouraging to have somebody walking same career path with you.

The culture of Douki is a unique and important element in Japanese companies.

If you decided to work in Japan, I bet you will enjoy a nice Spring time with your Douki under the cherry blossoms.