[Today’s Japanese word “Pool biraki”]

Today’s Japanese word “Pool biraki” (The opening of a pool).

“Pool biraki” means the first time of using the swimming pool in that year.

In June, many Japanese schools begin to use the pool. Most swimming pool of schools in Japan are located outdoors. Therefore, we do not use the pool except hot summer.

Well, what will be the event called “Pool biraki”?
This event will be held in most facilities from a nursery school pool to a public pool.

“Pool biraki” has three major sections.
1) “Safe prayer” by the Shinto priest.
2) Greeting from the facility director.
3) Explanation of notes about the pool.

1) “Shinto priest” pray for safety by using “Japanese Sake” and “salt” so that accidents do not occur in the pool. It seems that there are also meanings of reporting to water’s God and safety praying.
2) If it is school, the principal performs it.
3) Will explain how to use the pool.

In the case of school, the students clean the pool and prepare for “Pool biraki”.
We participate in cleaning of pool since entering an elementary school.

Japanese children love the pool!