NOtes
vending machine 自動販売機;
overweight people: 太りすぎの人々;
incredibly: 信じられないほど;
on the way: 進行中で;
punctual: 時間に正確な
workout: 運動
overall: 全体的に

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An American traveler spent a month in Japan and found it full of surprises! He loved how safe Japan is—imagine forgetting your phone or wallet in public, and no one steals it! He was amazed by the countless vending machines and how peaceful the streets are; people rarely use headphones while walking. Most people in Japan seem to live a very healthy lifestyle—he didn’t see many overweight people. The streets are super clean, even without public trash bins. People are patient, always waiting for the green light, and kids at schools clean their classrooms themselves. Japan is incredibly technologically advanced, with smart toilets and a new high-speed train—500 kilometers an hour—on the way. The traveler also noticed how punctual everyone is; if a train is even a minute late, the staff apologizes! Plus, customer service is amazing—hotel staff gave him water and a towel after his workout. Overall, he found Japan to be clean, safe, and advanced, with friendly and considerate people. It was an unforgettable experience!
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Notes
aligned with と一致する;
the Gregorian calendar 新暦、グレゴリオ暦；
tapestry つづれ織り;

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January 1st is commonly known as New Year’s Day around the world, aligned with the Gregorian calendar. However, some cultures celebrate the new year on different dates. A notable example is China, where the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, begins. Unlike the fixed January 1st date, the Chinese New Year falls on the first day of the lunar calendar, typically in late January or early February. For example, in 2024, it starts on Feburay 10. Celebrations include family gatherings, special meals, dragon dances, and the giving of red envelopes for luck. Understanding these diverse traditions allows us to explore various cultural practices and recognize the rich tapestry of global customs, enhancing our appreciation of the world’s diversity.
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