Also applies to those that you go to High School with for 6 years, and people you go to Uni with. Its not unusual for people in their 40's and 50's to meet up with people from school and uni and have long ties with them
You made a good point however students here do not go to High School for 6 years it is only 3.

Usually from Elementary school through Junior High School the kids are together. Cumpulsory education here runs through JHS, students then pretty much spread out when they enter High School, although some choose to study at the same HS's.


Here in Okinawa the bonds of friendship formed from ES last until death in most cases.

Here these friendships are a necessary part of life, it's not so much what you know but who you know. That extends from family life into business as well.