1.   For two hours I absorbed the exquisite scrolls with their pastoral scenes, plum blossoms and bold calligraphy.

2.   For the month of March brings more than plum blossoms and daffodils.

3.   One tradition, kadomatsu, consists of a pine branch symbolizing longevity, a bamboo stalk symbolizing prosperity, and a plum blossom showing nobility.

4.   Buildings and office blocks were ablaze with banners, placards, lanterns and lights depicting good-luck symbols like plum blossoms, fish and gold coins.

5.   The bean-throwing ceremony marking the end of winter was held this week, the plum blossoms are already blooming and...