Japanese Folktale Series

The Enchanting Japanese Folktale “Saienji’s Tanuki Bayashi”: A Tale of Love and Returning Favors

Discover the emotional Japanese folktale "Saienji's Tanuki Bayashi." A gripping story of a young samurai, pure love, self-sacrifice, and a mystical Tanuki's belly-drumming. Read the full story and its deep cultural meanings.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 26 is “Thunder Memorial Day”: The Vengeful Spirit That Shook the Heian Capital

Discover the dramatic history behind Japan's Thunder Memorial Day on June 26. Learn how a terrifying vengeful spirit from the Heian period transformed into the beloved God of Learning.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale “Izumi”: The Snake’s Gratitude and the Water of Life

Discover the mystical Japanese folktale "Izumi" (The Spring). Read the story of a hunter, a snake's gratitude, and learn about Japanese animism and water deities.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 25: Preparing for “Chinowa Kuguri” and the Japanese Spirit of Purification

Discover the ancient Japanese tradition of Chinowa Kuguri and Nagoshi no Harae. Learn how Shinto shrines prepare for this summer purification ritual and the deep cultural significance of spiritual cleansing in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 24: “Omitasai” – The History and Essence of Japan’s Great Rice Planting Festival

Explore the history and cultural significance of Omitasai, one of Japan's top three rice planting festivals held every June 24th at Izawanomiya. Discover the deep roots of Shinto and Japanese traditions.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 23, 1534: The Birth of Oda Nobunaga, The Warlord Who Reshaped Japan

Discover the dramatic life and legacy of Oda Nobunaga, born on June 23, 1534. Learn how this visionary samurai reshaped Japanese history, culture, and warfare.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Spring of Idei: A Tale of True Love and Miracles

Discover the touching Japanese folktale of "The Spring of Idei" (出井の泉). Learn about Japanese culture, Jizo statues, and the power of true filial piety in this deep analysis.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 22 is Bowling Day! From 1861 Nagasaki to a Unique Japanese Cultural Evolution

June 22 is Bowling Day in Japan. Explore the history of how a Western sport introduced in Nagasaki in 1861 evolved into a highly advanced, uniquely Japanese cultural phenomenon. Read more at kiri53.com.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Law of Nature Taught by a Japanese Folktale: The Dark and Deep Story of “Gonbei and the Crows”

Discover the dark and deep Japanese folktale "Gonbei and the Crows". Learn about the origins of the one-legged Japanese scarecrow, karmic retribution, and traditional Japanese views on coexisting with nature. Read the full story and cultural analysis!
Anime

[Anime Introduction] Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End – A Masterpiece Intersecting Fantasy and Japanese Views on Life and Death

Discover why the hit anime Frieren: Beyond Journey's End captivates Japan. Explore its deep connections to Japanese culture, Mono no Aware, and the beauty of life.