Exploring the Strange and Enchanting World of Japanese Culture

May 18, 1869: The End of the Hakodate War. The Fall of the Samurai and the Dawn of Modern Japan

Discover the dramatic end of the Boshin War at Hakodate's Goryokaku on May 18, 1869. Explore the contrasting fates of samurai heroes and the dawn of modern Japan.

2026.05.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

A Hidden Masterpiece of Japanese Folktales: “The Swapped Wallet” and True Wealth

Discover the heartwarming Japanese folktale "The Swapped Wallet" (Surikaeta Saifu). Learn about the deep-rooted cultural values of honesty, "Otentosama ga miteiru", and why dropped wallets always return in modern Japan.

2026.05.17

Japanese Folktale Series

May 17 is Ochazuke Day: The Hidden History and Zen Spirit of Japan’s Soul Food

Learn about Ochazuke Day on May 17th. Discover the history of Nagatani Soshichiro, the invention of Sencha, and why this simple dish of green tea over rice is the ultimate Japanese soul food.

2026.05.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 16 is “Travel Day”: Understanding the Japanese Spirit of Travel through Matsuo Basho’s “Oku no Hosomichi”

Discover the origins of Japan's Travel Day on May 16. Learn about Haiku master Matsuo Basho's epic journey, Oku no Hosomichi, and the profound Japanese philosophy of travel.

2026.05.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Hidden Horror of “The Nut Thrown into the Fire”: Nature’s Law and a Terrifying Taboo

Discover the eerie Japanese folktale "The Nut Thrown into the Fire." Explore its deep cultural meaning, the concept of animism, and the spiritual rules of the traditional hearth (Irori). Read the full story and uncover the dark secrets of nature's laws!

2026.05.15

Japanese Folktale Series

May 15: Okinawa Reversion Day – A Tale of the Southern Islands Where Unique Culture and Prayers for Peace Intersect

Discover the profound history and rich 'Champuru' culture of Okinawa on May 15, Okinawa Reversion Day. Learn about its journey from the Ryukyu Kingdom to modern Japan.

2026.05.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Mysteries of the Deep Japanese Forest: “Kaemon and the Mountain God”

Discover the heartwarming Japanese folktale of Kaemon and the Mountain God. Explore the beautiful bond between a postman and a wild wolf, and delve into Japan's deep Shinto culture and nature worship.

2026.05.14

Japanese Folktale Series

The King of Comedy and the Assassination Plot: The Light and Shadow of Charlie Chaplin’s First Visit to Japan on May 13, 1932

On May 13, 1932, Charlie Chaplin visited Japan. Discover the shocking true story of how watching Sumo saved his life during the May 15 Incident, and explore his deep love for Japanese culture.

2026.05.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Acolyte and the Mochi: A Hilarious Japanese Folktale of Wit and Humor

Discover the classic Japanese folktale "The Acolyte and the Mochi." Explore the hilarious story of a clever young monk, a greedy priest, and the deep cultural and Zen Buddhist significance of mochi in Japan. Read the full analysis now!

2026.05.13

Japanese Folktale Series

May 13 is “Dog’s Day” in Japan: Exploring the Bond Between Dogs and the Japanese People

Discover why May 13 is celebrated as Dog's Day in Japan. Explore the history, the cultural significance of native breeds like Shiba Inu, and the true meaning of loyalty.

2026.05.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series