“Why Japan?” Series

The Country That Defies World History: The True Reason Japan Has Survived for Over 2000 Years

Discover the untold secret behind Japan's 2000-year history. Explore the philosophy of Shirasu versus Ushihaku and the unique role of the Japanese Emperor governing through prayer.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Secret of August 29: Yakiniku Day and Yaki-Fugu Day

Discover why August 29 is celebrated as Yakiniku Day and Yaki-Fugu Day in Japan. Explore the history, the culture of Goroawase, and a tale of summer stamina.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Mountain Hag’s Visit Home: Lost Time and Family Bonds

Discover the eerie yet heartwarming Japanese folktale, "The Mountain Hag's Visit Home." Explore the deep cultural meaning of Kamikakushi and Japanese animism.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[August 28] The Dawn of a New Era in Japanese Media: Commercial TV Start Day & TV CM Day

Discover the history of August 28, 1953, the day Nippon TV launched Japan's first commercial broadcast. Read the funny truth behind Japan's first Seiko TV commercial and how it shaped Japanese high-context pop culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale: The Thunder God Who Married into a Soba Shop

Discover the hilarious Japanese folktale of a fearsome Thunder God who falls from the sky, demands noodles, and becomes a loving husband. Explore its cultural meanings and Japanese wordplay!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 27 is “Chinsuko Day”: A Miraculous Baked Sweet Spreading from the Ryukyu Royal Court to the World

Discover the fascinating history of Chinsuko, Okinawa's famous traditional cookie. Learn how this Ryukyu Kingdom royal sweet represents the unique blend of cultures in Japan.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Obiki no Zenroku: A Tale of Blood, Sweat, and the Making of a True Master

Dive into the fascinating Japanese folktale of Obiki no Zenroku. Explore the deep cultural meaning of the Shokunin spirit, Shinto gods, and true human effort.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 26, 1958: The Birth of “Asahi Gold” and the Revolution of Japanese Beer Culture

Discover how the release of Asahi Gold on August 26, 1958, Japan's first canned beer, revolutionized Japanese outdoor culture like Hanami and Shinkansen travel. Read the fascinating 9-year history!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 25: The Introduction of Firearms to Japan (1543) – The Two Matchlocks That Changed History and the Hidden Tragedy of a Young Girl

On August 25, 1543, firearms were introduced to Japan. Discover the hidden, tragic folklore of Wakasa and how it sparked Japan's legendary Monozukuri craftsmanship.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Mystery of the Japanese Folktale “The Rice Ball and the Mountain Ascetic”: A Lesson in Awe of Nature and the Boundary of the Spirit World

Discover the eerie yet fascinating Japanese folktale "The Rice Ball and the Mountain Ascetic" (Nigirimeshi to Yamabushi). Explore the deep cultural roots of mountain worship, Shugendo, and animism in Japan. What happens when humans step into the realm of spirits?