Spring in Japan is synonymous with the blooming of cherry blossoms, known locally as sakura. This period represents renewal and the fleeting nature of life, as the pink petals fall almost as quickly as they appear. To preserve this transient …

Mention ice cream vans, and many people’s minds instantly leap to images of children queuing at a summer fair or park, excitedly awaiting a cone topped with a bright flake. The cheerful music, the anticipation, and the simple joy of …