OK, here is an interesting one..

In English, when we start a formal letter, it is usually something like: "Dear Sir/Madam", right?

I just watched two well educated Japanese people scan through a list of options on how to start a formal letter..
(It is now on the net but before the net they used a book and many people still do.)

Heaps to choose from but they need to pick one that is appropriate and most refer to seasons or weather..

The one they chose goes something like this:
(Keep in mind it is just the opening greeting like "Dear Sir/Madam" !!)

"So recently the weather has subjected us to everyday having considerable rain. It is hoped that summer will soon be here"

Indeed!!
And it was actually a letter to a government body!!

And some people accuse Japanese of beating around the bush...!!