Japanese Folktale Series

The Substitute Jizo: A Japanese Miracle Tale of Self-Sacrifice and Ultimate Compassion

Discover the touching Japanese folktale of "Migawari Jizo" (The Substitute Jizo). Learn the deep cultural meaning behind Japan's Jizo statues, the Buddhist concept of ultimate compassion, and the power of everyday faith in this deep dive into Japanese folklore.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 2: Yokohama Curry Day – How Japan Transformed a Foreign Dish into a National Obsession

Discover the fascinating history of Japanese curry on June 2, Yokohama Curry Day. Learn how a British dish introduced at the Port of Yokohama evolved into Japan's ultimate comfort food. Read the full story on Kiri53.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Gorobei Fuchi: A Tragic and Beautiful Tale of a Snake’s Gratitude

Explore the heartbreaking Japanese folktale "Gorobei Fuchi" from Akita. Learn about a giant snake's tragic sacrifice, animism, and the deep spirit of Japanese culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Memory of June 1st: The Heian Period Ritual of “Hagatame” and Prayers for Longevity

Discover the fascinating history of June 1st in Japan. Learn about the Heian period ritual of "Hagatame," where aristocrats ate hard foods like mochi to pray for health and longevity, a tradition still echoing in modern Japanese culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Mystical Japanese Folktale “Mayohiga” (The Lost House)

Discover the enchanting Japanese folktale of Mayohiga (The Lost House). Explore the cultural significance of mountain spirits and the virtue of selflessness in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 31st: Captivated by the Magic of “Shinryoku” (Fresh Greenery) in Early Japanese Summer

Discover the beauty of May 31st in Japan. Explore "Shinryoku" (fresh greenery), Aomomiji, and how the Japanese tradition of forest bathing and Wabi-sabi connects deeply with nature.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Old Woman Who Became an Island: A Heartbreaking Ainu Folktale of Lake Mashu

Discover the tragic and beautiful Japanese folktale of "The Old Woman Who Became an Island." Explore Ainu mythology, the origins of Lake Mashu, and Japanese cultural heritage.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[May 30] The Soul of Japan Rising from the Ashes: The Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties

Discover the tragic history behind Japan's Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. Explore the unique Japanese philosophy of preserving intangible heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and National Treasures.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale “Bunbun Shaku ni Sase”: Animal Gratitude and the Choice of Destiny

Dive into the fascinating Japanese folktale "Bunbun Shaku ni Sase." Explore the cultural significance of Ongaeshi (repaying kindness) and animism. Find out how a lazy man won a fortune with the help of a turtle, a monkey, and a magical bee!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 29: The Presentation of the Kokin Wakashu and the Dawn of Japanese Aesthetics

Discover the profound impact of the Kokin Wakashu, Japan's first imperial poetry anthology presented on May 29, 905. Learn how it shaped Japanese aesthetics, anime, and culture.