Shwedagon Impressions

by Robert George, Mar 13, 2003 | Destinations: Myanmar / Yangon

Image © 2002 Robert George

A story told with photos.

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In Japan, children are treated with the utmost care and attention. The literacy rate in Japan ranks among the world's highest, and the infant mortality rate is among the lowest. Despite its population density and astronomical cost of living, Japan provides excellent 'quality of life' for its children.

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Every year on November 15, Japan celebrates Shichi-Go-San--Children's Day. Dressed in their very finest garments, girls and boys aged three, boys aged five, and girls aged seven, go with their families to nearby shrines, where they line up, sometimes for hours, to await their turn to be blessed by the presiding priest. After the blessing, the child is presented with a gift of long sticks of candy called chitose-ame, "thousand year sweets," wrapped in ornate bags decorated with cranes and turtles, both symbols of longevity.

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Japanese salarymen are expected to show devotion to the company by working long hours, often six days a week. So, a sunny lunch hour provides a welcome opportunity for a little R&R.

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