The "National Center Test for University Admission" is going to be held on January 17th and 18th this year. It is a universal examination for Japanese universities. All national/public universities require applicants to take this exam. During the exam season the superstitious nature of the Japanese becomes apparent. In fact you will find various lucky charms being sold around this time. The most popular are charms purchased from a shrine or temple. However, the Kit Kat (a chocolate bar) is also popular. Why? The Japanese pronounce it as, "kitto katto." It sounds like "kitto katsu" which means, "You will surely win". Parents often buy Kit Kats for their children for exam days. It is just a fun play on words, but if it makes them feel better why not!