[For Kids] Fun Summer Trivia Quiz & Facts

Because two people slacked off at work

As Orihime and Hikoboshi became infatuated with each other and spent every day meeting and playing, they began to neglect their work. Angered by this, the Emperor of Heaven separated them to opposite banks of the Milky Way. As a reward for working properly, they are allowed to meet only once a year, on the day of Tanabata.

Japan

Flip-flops were originally created inspired by zōri, a traditional Japanese type of footwear. After World War II, zōri made with rubber materials were developed, and these are said to be the model for today’s flip-flops. Because they are light and durable, they spread around the world and have now become an essential item for summer activities like going to the beach or the pool.

thickness

The biggest difference between sōmen and hiyamugi is the thickness of the noodles. Under Japan’s Agricultural Standards (JAS), sōmen must be less than 1.3 mm in diameter, while hiyamugi must be at least 1.3 mm but less than 1.7 mm. Based on this standard, stores clearly separate and sell them. Both are popular in summer because they’re cool and easy to eat, but you’ll notice slight differences in mouthfeel and how substantial they are.

The day with the longest daylight hours

The summer solstice—only in the Northern Hemisphere—is characterized by having the longest daylight of the year. In Japan, it falls around June 21–22. After the solstice, the days gradually get shorter and the nights longer. It’s an important day that marks the seasons, linked to the sun’s movement and the tilt of the Earth.

chin

You might be thinking, “Aren’t those horns?” but in fact, the large protruding parts on a stag beetle are its jaws. These jaws, also called mandibles, are notable for their unique length and shape not seen in other insects. Male stag beetles have especially large mandibles, which they use for fighting and competing over food.