“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 14: Haihan-chiken – The Day Japan Transformed Overnight

Discover the fascinating history of July 14 in Japan, the day of Haihan-chiken. Learn how the samurai domains were abolished overnight to create modern prefectures, and how this historic event shaped traditional Japanese culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktales] Fujikazura no Ibokobu: A Story of Nature and Faith

Discover the intriguing Japanese folktale of "Fujikazura no Ibokobu" (The Warts on the Wisteria Vine). Learn about the high priest's curse, the power of Kotodama, and the deep connection between traditional Japanese culture and animism in this comprehensive analysis.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 13th “Mukaebi”: The Beautiful Japanese Spiritual World of Guiding Ancestral Souls Home

Explore the profound Japanese tradition of Mukaebi on July 13th. Learn how families light welcoming fires during the Obon festival to connect the living with ancestral spirits, reflecting a beautiful view of life and death.
Japanese Folktale Series

Welcome to the Mystical World of Japanese Folktales

Discover the thrilling Japanese folktale of "Oni no Ashikata" from Kumamoto. Read how the brave boy Taichi defeated a massive man-eating demon using only his wits, and uncover the deep cultural connections to ancient Japanese animism and history.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 12, 1192: The Dawn of the Samurai Era and the Appointment of Minamoto no Yoritomo

Discover the history of July 12, 1192, when Minamoto no Yoritomo became Japan's first Seii Taishogun. Learn how the Kamakura Shogunate gave birth to the Samurai spirit and shaped Japanese culture forever.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 11 is Ramen Day! The History and Culture Hidden in Japan’s Soul Food

Why is July 11th Ramen Day in Japan? Discover the fascinating history, the connection to samurai Lord Tokugawa Mitsukuni, and how Japanese craftsmanship and umami culture turned a simple noodle dish into a global phenomenon. Read more on Kiri53!
Japanese Folktale Series

The Dream of Hachimando: What a Japanese Folktale Teaches Us About Happiness and Reality

Discover "The Dream of Hachimando" (八幡堂の夢), a captivating Japanese folktale from Kagoshima. Explore its deep Buddhist meanings, the concept of impermanence, and what a shared dream of gold teaches us about true happiness and human nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 10, 645: The Isshi Incident – The Bloody Coup That Forged a Nation

Discover the dramatic events of the Isshi Incident on July 10, 645. Learn how a political assassination at the Asuka Palace led to the Taika Reforms and birthed the centralized Japanese state.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Grandpa Fox Who Went to Fushimi

Discover the enchanting Japanese folktale of the Grandpa Fox who lived among humans. Explore Kitsune lore, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and profound Japanese culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 9 is “Jet Coaster Day”! The Hidden History and Culture Behind Japan’s Unique Roller Coasters

Discover why roller coasters are called "Jet Coasters" in Japan! Explore the history of July 9th Jet Coaster Day, Japanese amusement park culture, and the unique Wasei-Eigo evolution on kiri53.com.