Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktales] Awe and Blessings of the Gods: Living with Nature Taught by “The Straw Dragon for Rainmaking”

Discover the enchanting Japanese folktale of "The Straw Dragon for Rainmaking" from Gifu Prefecture. Explore the deep connections between Japanese animism, dragon legends, and human relationships with nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 18 is “Shimakutuba Day”: The Lost Words of the Ryukyu Kingdom and the Memory of “Kotodama”

Discover the deep history of Okinawa's "Shimakutuba Day" on September 18. Explore the Ryukyu Kingdom, the tragedy of dialect cards, the concept of Kotodama, and the modern fight to save Japan's endangered indigenous languages.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 17th is “Italian Food Day” in Japan: A Tale of Transnational Passion and Unique Culinary Evolution

Discover why September 17 is Italian Food Day in Japan. Explore the emotional history of Japan's first Italian restaurant, the birth of Naporitan, and Wafu Pasta.
Japanese Folktale Series

Kitsune no Yometori: The Shocking Truth Behind Inter-Species Marriage

Discover the chilling Japanese folktale "Kitsune no Yometori" (The Fox's Wedding). We explore the story of a shape-shifting fox, cultural analysis, and the dark truth behind inter-species marriage.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 16: The Ertugrul Frigate Disaster – A Story of Debt, Gratitude, and an Unbreakable Bond Beyond Borders

Discover the incredible true story of the 1890 Ertugrul frigate disaster. Learn how a Japanese village's selfless rescue sparked a 95-year bond and a miraculous return favor in Tehran.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Hustle of Shinjuku Station and the Serenity of an Autumn Day

Discover the origins of Japan's Silver Seat (Priority Seating) established on September 15, 1973. Explore the cultural concept of Omoiyari and modern etiquette on Japanese trains.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale “Gosuke’s Business”: How Filial Piety and Wit Bring Good Fortune

Discover the traditional Japanese folktale "Gosuke's Business" from Hiroshima. Learn about Japanese culture, filial piety, and the origins of practical ingenuity in this heartwarming story.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 14, 1900: The Dawn of Women’s Education in Japan Forged by Umeko Tsuda

Discover the inspiring story of Umeko Tsuda, who opened the Women's Institute for English Studies on Sept 14, 1900. Learn how she defied societal norms and reshaped Japanese culture forever.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Mystery of the Tengu’s Pine: Coexisting with Japan’s Unseen Spirits

Dive into the captivating Japanese folktale of "The Tengu's Pine" (天狗の松). Discover the hidden world of Yokai, Shinto nature worship, and the spiritual power of ancient trees in this deep cultural analysis.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 13: “Fist of the North Star Day” – Bushido and Compassion Blooming in the Wasteland

Explore the deep cultural roots of "Fist of the North Star Day" on September 13. Discover how Kenshiro's journey reflects Japanese Bushido, Eastern medicine, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.