The land of Japan is long and narrow, running north to south. The difference in temperatures between Hokkaido in the north and Okinawa in the south can be as much as 40 degrees (centigrade) in winter. The distinct differences in climatic conditions from season to season allow people to enjoy beautiful natural vistas all throughout the year. The changing of the four seasons has fostered a unique sensibility among Japanese people that has been the foundation of the nation’s original culture since ancient times. They have passed down the tradition of reflecting the taste of each season within their food and daily life, and enjoy the seasonal accents through events such as hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring and momiji-gari (scarlet maple leaves viewing) in fall.