“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 4th is Risshun. The Beginning of Spring in Japan.

Discover the meaning of Risshun (Feb 4), Japan's official start of spring. Explore the 24 Solar Terms, the "Risshun Daikichi" talisman against demons, and the cultural philosophy of finding hope in the cold.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Legend of Imohori Choja: Discovering Japan’s Hidden Gold

Discover the legend of Imohori Choja, a humble potato digger who found gold. A deep dive into this Japanese folktale, its cultural meaning, and the origin of Kanazawa City.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 3rd is “Setsubun”: The Ancient Japanese Ritual of Exorcism and Rebirth

Discover the meaning of Setsubun (Feb 3), Japan's traditional bean-throwing festival. Learn about Mamemaki, Ehomaki sushi rolls, and the deep cultural significance of purifying demons before spring.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Bridge That Fell from Heaven: The Legend of Amanohashidate and Izanagi’s Love

Discover the Japanese folktale behind Amanohashidate, Kyoto. Learn how a god's nap created one of Japan's Three Scenic Views. A story of love, failure, and the Dragon view.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 2nd, 1920: The Day “Bus Girls” Changed Tokyo’s Streets Forever

Discover the history of "Bus Girl Day" in Japan (Feb 2). Learn how 1920s female conductors revolutionized Tokyo's transport and evolved into the iconic Japanese Bus Guides.
Anime

NARUTO: The Legendary Anime That Ignited a Global “NINJA” Spirit and a Universal Tale of Growth | Anime Introduction Blog

Discover why "NARUTO" is a global anime phenomenon. This in-depth review explores its story, characters, and unique Japanese cultural themes like "NINJA" and "bonds" that resonate worldwide. Start your journey into the Hidden Leaf Village today!
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale “Tsuru Gaki”: The Miracle Fruit Born of Kindness

Discover the heartwarming Japanese folktale "Tsuru Gaki" from Yamaguchi. A story of a kind girl, a grateful crane, and the miraculous origin of seedless dried persimmons.
Anime

Introduction: A Requiem for Forgotten Souls – “Grave of the Fireflies”

Discover Studio Ghibli's "Grave of the Fireflies." Read an in-depth analysis of this tragic war film, its cultural significance in Japan, and why it remains a must-watch masterpiece today.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

In the Japanese calendar, there are not only traditional events but also significant anniversaries created by modern pop culture. February 1st is one such day. For girls across Japan, adults who were once those girls, and countless anime fans worldwide, this day marks the beginning of a revolution. It is “Precure Day.”

Celebrate "Precure Day" on February 1st. Discover how the Precure series revolutionized anime with physical combat, evolved gender norms in Japan, and inspired generations since 2004.
Anime

[Attack on Titan] The Dark Fantasy Masterpiece that Shook the World: Decoding its Appeal Through Japanese Culture and History

Dive deep into Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin). A comprehensive review analyzing its plot, Japanese cultural roots (Sakoku), and historical themes. Discover why this anime captivated the world.