Hello, I am Yoshi from NILS Japanese language school. Today, I would like to introduce one of the traditional annual events in Japan to you. That is お中元（ちゅうげん） or mid-summer gift.
Ochugen お中元 is the tradition of gift-giving and is observed from early in July through to the 15th. The word chugen 中元 means the Buddhist obon day, which is celebrated on July 15 on the lunar calendar. On this day, people traditionally offer various foods to commemorate the spirits of their ancestors. As the time has gone by however, the tradtion has changed to one of a gift-giving custom to one’s elders or betters or to someone to whom your are indebted. Such people may include one’s parents-in-law, other relatives, former teachers, matchmakers, superiors at work and so on. Today, popular gif items are gourmet food products, ham, alcoholic drinks, canned goods, cooking oil, sweets, tea and washing detergent.

July 2nd News, from NILS Japanese language school.