さくらとはなみ花見 Cherry Blossoms and Cherry Blossom Viewing by Natalie Rees
This reading introduces one of the most beloved and famous traditions of Japan. Below is some extra information on grammar used in the reading.
日本中 - throughout Japan
中 in this case means 'throughout'. It can be used with other words to form a similar meaning, such as in 一年中 throughout the year, all year round, 一日中 all day long, throughout the day, 部屋中 all over the room, throughout the room
verb stem + ながら
This form is used to describe two actions taking place at the same time. 花を見ながら、ともだちやかぞくといっしょにパーティーをします。They have get togethers with family and friends, while viewing the cherry blossoms.
This text has been selected to suit reading level: Upper beginner.
However, it includes some vocabulary and phrases that you would not necessarily be expected to know at that level.
We believe knowledge of such vocabulary and phrases is beneficial at any stage of Japanese language learning,
as they are commonly used in everyday language.
Many of the readings in the Reading Corner, such as this one, have additional notes in the introduction.
The notes often provide extra information that will help you get more out of the text, including links to articles in the Grammar library.
Additional notes are included with some of the individual sentences in a reading directly below the text.