The new school year got underway here last week, marked in true Japanese style by an opening ceremony. At school, this usually consists of speeches, some intense scolding by the school disciplinarian, and the singing of the school song, facing the flag and singing the national anthem. Nothing too unusual about any of that. However, this last part has recently been the subject of some controversy.
The Ministry directive is detailed and specific, insisting that the Hinomaru must be in the centre of the stage and that the anthem may only be played on a piano – CDs are strictly forbidden.
learn something everyday
Let the moles dig their holes.