Haruka Takemi, a young and talented ballet artist from Tokyo, chose the Nizhny Novgorod region to continue her professional career. She is now a member of the company at the A.S. Pushkin Nizhny Novgorod State Opera and Ballet Theatre, marking a deliberate and strategic step in her artistic development in Russia.
We are proud to share that the first and most critical milestone in adapting to life in Russia — obtaining a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) — has been successfully completed together with Haruka. Our team provided comprehensive support at every stage of the process, from document preparation to submission through the Passport and Visa Service (PVS). Thanks to our close partnership with PVS, the procedure was exceptionally efficient, transparent, and comfortable for our client.
💯The result: Haruka received all required documents smoothly, without delays or unnecessary stress. She is now fully focused on rehearsals, performances, and building her new life in Nizhny Novgorod. Audiences already have the opportunity to see her perform live — productions featuring Haruka are currently on stage.
To learn more about the Temporary Residence Permit application process, please leave a request for a consultation on our website!
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On the night of January 18–19 and throughout the following day, Orthodox Christians celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord (Epiphany), one of the most significant feasts in the Orthodox Christian calendar. During the Epiphany vigil, believers take part in the Great Blessing of Water, which many then keep in their homes throughout the year as a sacred object of spiritual protection and renewal.
One of the most well-known traditions associated with Epiphany in Russia is the practice of the Epiphany plunge. Each year, thousands of people across the country immerse themselves in icy waters during the night of the feast. Special openings are cut into the ice of rivers and lakes, typically in the shape of a cross. These openings are known as “Iordans”, named after the River Jordan, where, according to the Gospel, Jesus Christ was baptized.
Before the immersion begins, a priest blesses the water. Participants then enter the water — traditionally three times — making the sign of the cross and offering a brief prayer. For many, this ritual is an expression of faith, spiritual purification, and inner renewal.
Are there any special traditions associated with this feast in your culture or family? 👨👩👦👦
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The name may sound ironic, but this “second” New Year is very real in Russia. It is traditionally celebrated on the night of January 13–14. While it is not an official public holiday, it remains a warm, family-oriented tradition. And although Russians are known for their love of celebrations, this one has a very specific historical origin. As we’ve mentioned before, in 1918 Russia transitioned from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. The difference between the two amounted to 13 days — which is why Christmas, New Year’s Day, and several other dates gradually shifted apart. As a result, New Year’s Eve in Russia is now observed twice: first on January 1 according to the modern calendar, and then again according to the old one. Today, some people still gather around a festive table with friends and family, while for many others it is simply a pleasant occasion to exchange greetings and extend the feeling of celebration just a little longer. After all, one more chance to make a wish — why not?