As we travel through the peaceful and snow-covered landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan, we are welcomed into the home of a charming grandmother. Her evening rituals and customs give us a clear picture of Japanese culture and family ties.
She lives in a small town in the country, and her life has a slow beat that includes traditions, hobbies, and the easy joys of everyday life.
As the sun sets and the day comes to a close, she carefully arranges the Hina dolls, a beautiful tradition associated with Hinamatsuri, a special celebration in early March that pays tribute to daughters.
These dolls hold a rich history, passed down through generations, and are more than just decorative items.
Her evening is filled with the gentle harmonies of piano music.
Every day, she spends more than 30 minutes immersed in music, experiencing pure joy and finding a sense of clarity. This highlights the incredible influence that hobbies can have on our overall well-being and happiness. Her passion for piano music weaves together the various threads of her interests, shedding light on the many facets of her personality.
As the sun sets and night falls, the kitchen transforms into a platform for embracing the art of simple and traditional cooking. Creating a simple yet comforting meal, she carefully prepares miso soup using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s a reminder of the warmth and familiarity that can be found in a bowl of soup.
With crab shumai and a Japanese-style stew on the table, the atmosphere becomes festive, especially when enjoyed with a guest.
Dinner is a delightful occasion, a moment to come together and savor the pleasures of good food and company. Indulge in the delightful combination of fluffy scrambled eggs, fresh bonito sashimi, and perfectly cooked rice. This exquisite dish not only highlights her impressive culinary expertise but also captures the pure pleasure of sharing a meal together. This moment perfectly captures the true essence of home cooking — providing nourishment for both the body and soul.
The post-dinner hours are spent sifting through old letters, a ritual of remembrance and connection. These letters, spanning across decades, serve as tangible connections to the past, providing insights into family dynamics and the timeless art of written communication.
Engaging in this activity not only helps her pass the time, but also deepens her understanding of her family history.
Tea time gives us a break and a chance to relax before the night goes on. It feels like a cozy tradition, where friends gather to chat over cups of decaffeinated Earl Grey and indulge in a variety of snacks. Indulging in this simple pleasure reminds us of the significance of savoring moments together, accompanied by a comforting cup of warmth.
A new twist is added at the end of the night: watching YouTube videos on TV. This activity demonstrates a perfect fusion of traditional and modern elements, showcasing her remarkable ability to adapt and her insatiable curiosity.
By actively consuming the content produced by her family members, she manages to maintain a strong connection with their lives and interests, effectively bridging the generational divide with the help of technology.
Finally, as the day draws to a close, she takes a moment to reflect and document her thoughts.
Every night, she engages in a ritual of reflection and documentation, capturing the very essence of her experiences, thoughts, and emotions. It feels like a personal archive, a means to capture and preserve the fleeting moments of life through writing, so that even the most ordinary days can be remembered and treasured.
In the serene, snow-covered town of Hokkaido, the evening routine of a grandmother unfolds like a soothing melody, a story filled with timeless traditions, simplicity, and boundless love. Her narrative captures the essence of everyday life, the love within her family, and the timeless allure of Japanese traditions.
Check out her complete routine in the video provided below.
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