Japanese Folktale Series

What is the “Fox’s Bunbuku Chagama”? Another Magical Folktale from Yamagata

Discover the untold Japanese folktale of the Fox's Bunbuku Chagama. Learn why a shape-shifting Kitsune brought a magical tea kettle that multiplies rice, and explore the deep cultural roots of Inari worship and Japanese Yokai.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Awakening of Japanese Spring: The Profound Spirituality Hidden in March 20th, “Shunbun” and “Shunki Koreisai”

Explore the profound Japanese traditions of March 20. Learn how Shunbun (Vernal Equinox) and Shunki Koreisai beautifully blend nature, Shinto, and ancestor worship.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktales] Michibiki Jizo: The Terror of Tsunami and Ancestral Warnings That Save Lives

Discover the chilling Japanese folktale of "Michibiki Jizo" (The Guiding Jizo). Explore the profound cultural meaning behind this tsunami warning story, the role of Jizo statues in Japanese Buddhism, and the traditional wisdom of disaster survival in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 19th: The Birth of “Hato Bus” – Exploring Japanese Hospitality and Post-War Recovery Through Tokyo’s Iconic Yellow Buses

Discover the history of Tokyo's famous yellow Hato Bus, which began operations on March 19, 1949. Learn how it reflects post-war recovery and the true spirit of Japanese "Omotenashi" hospitality.
Japanese Folktale Series

Nezumi to Jisa (The Mouse and the Old Man): A Heartbreaking Promise and the Deep Bonds of Japan

Discover the poignant Japanese folktale "Nezumi to Jisa" (The Mouse and the Old Man). Explore its deep themes of promises, human frailty, and Japanese animistic culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 18 is Tactile Paving Day: The Japanese Kindness That Changed the World

Discover the heartwarming history of Tenji Blocks (Tactile Paving), invented in Japan by Seiichi Miyake to save a visually impaired friend. Learn how Japanese culture embraces accessibility, "Omoiyari" (compassion), and "Omotenashi" (hospitality) in urban design.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Secret World Hidden in the Japanese Night: The Folktale “Neko no Shibai”

Discover the fascinating Japanese folktale "Neko no Shibai" (The Cats' Play). We explore the story, its connection to Chushingura, and the deep Japanese cultural rules between humans and the supernatural world.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 17 is “Asahi Super Dry Day”! The “Karakuchi” Revolution that Changed Japanese Beer Culture

Discover the history of March 17th, Asahi Super Dry Day. Learn how this iconic "Karakuchi" beer revolutionized Japanese Izakaya culture, the meaning of "Toriaezu Nama," and Japan's spirit of craftsmanship.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Sweating Gun: A Bakeneko’s Trap and the Terrifying Code of Japanese Hunters

Discover the chilling Japanese folktale of "The Sweating Gun" (Asekaki Teppo). Explore the dark world of the Bakeneko, Japanese animism, and the harsh rules of traditional hunters. What price would you pay to survive?
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 16th is “Juroku Dango”! The Mystical Japanese Spring Tradition Connecting Nature and the Gods

Discover the fascinating Japanese tradition of Juroku Dango on March 16th. Learn how 16 dumplings welcome the Mountain God to the rice fields for a bountiful spring! Explore the depths of Japanese animism and culture.