This year marks my ‘unlucky year’ in Japanese tradition. Since the beginning of the year, my father fell ill with a heart condition and underwent a pacemaker surgery last week. I believe that my ‘unlucky year’ had its effect on the weakest in my family, my father.

February 3rd is known as ‘Setsubun’ in Japan, a day when people pray for a year free of misfortune.

The ‘Abiko Kannon’ temple in Osaka is famed for its rituals to ward off bad luck. On Setsubun, the temple is bustling with life. Many visit to participate in grand ceremonies, where large fires are set for prayers. It was an empowering experience to see so many priests praying for our well-being.

Founded in 546 AD, this temple boasts a 1425-year history. Although small, the vibrancy of the grand prayer fires, lively giant carps, beautiful pine trees, historic trees symbolizing life, and the dedication of numerous priests were truly impressive.

This temple, not widely known among foreign tourists, offers a unique experience, especially if you’re visiting Osaka in February.

I was able to pray earnestly for my father’s health. It brought great comfort and peace to my heart.

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Today, I want to share this beautiful picture from the plum grove of Osaka Castle. Every year, the plums here begin to bloom in late January, heralding the approach of spring.

While in Europe, a rose in full bloom is considered beautiful, in Japan, beauty is かoften found in the melancholy of falling cherry blossoms. However, personally, I find the very first blossoms of the plum trees at Osaka Castle the most beautiful.

As someone who works in pruning garden trees, I believe the condition of a garden reflects the character of its owner. The plum trees of Osaka Castle were planted by students from the prestigious Kitano High School, embodying their high caliber.

In Japan, we have a tradition of “Hanakotoba,” meaning flower language, where white plum blossoms signify the purity of a woman.

The white plums blooming earnestly in the quiet cold of winter are my favorite flowers in Japan.

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In Japan, there exists a unique tradition where leadership roles within the realms of business and politics are often passed down within families. This practice stands in contrast to the norms observed in other parts of the world, such as Europe.

This phenomenon is not limited to family businesses but extends to large corporations like Toyota and is deeply rooted in the political structure.

For instance, about 40% of the members of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) are hereditary politicians. This percentage increases further when broader family connections are considered.

Many of Japan’s Prime Ministers, including current PM Fumio Kishida, former PM Shinzo Abe, and former PM Taro Aso, have been a part of this hereditary tradition.

Recently, PM Kishida’s son, Shota Kishida, faced controversies over using official vehicles for tourism and playing inside the official residence, reported as scandals by the media.

In my view, the specific incidents involving PM Kishida’s son are less critical.

What’s more concerning is the lack of societal challenge in Japan to the practice of inheriting positions of power.

This acceptance of hereditary succession in leadership roles may make it difficult for truly meritorious leaders to emerge in Japan.

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