Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Mystery of “The Dancing Monster”: Tsukumogami and the Japanese Spirit of “Mottainai”

Dive into the fascinating Japanese folktale "The Dancing Monster" (Odoru Bakemono). Explore the deep cultural roots of Tsukumogami, Yokai, and the unique Japanese animistic belief of treating old objects with respect. Learn the true origin of the "Mottainai" spirit!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 26, 1936: The “February 26 Incident” That Shook the Snow-Covered Imperial Capital

1936年2月26日に発生した日本最大級のクーデター未遂「二・二六事件」。若き青年将校たちはなぜ重臣を暗殺したのか?昭和の激動の歴史と、背景にある日本の武士道や文化を海外読者向けに分かりやすく解説します。
Japanese Folktale Series

Tragic Love or Madness? The Terrifying and Beautiful Truth of the Japanese Legend “Anchin and Kiyohime”

日本の伝統的な昔話「安珍清姫」の物語を英語と日本語で詳しく解説。愛が裏切られ大蛇へと姿を変えた清姫の狂気、道成寺の鐘の悲劇、そして現代の「ヤンデレ」文化に繋がる日本特有の美意識と怨霊信仰について深く考察します。
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 25th is Michizane-ki: The Tragedy and Deification of Japan’s God of Learning

Discover the tragic history of Sugawara no Michizane, honored on February 25th in Japan. Explore how a vengeful spirit became the beloved God of Learning, deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

Welcome to the Deep, Terrifying World of the Japanese Folktale “The Blacksmith’s Hag”

Dive into the chilling Japanese folktale of "The Blacksmith's Hag" (Kajiya no Babaa). Discover a thrilling story of a wolf Yokai, survival, and ancient mountain myths.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 24th is “Moonlight Mask Day”: The Origin of Japanese Superheroes and a Prayer for Peace

Discover the fascinating history of Gekko Kamen (Moonlight Mask), Japan's first TV superhero who debuted on February 24, 1958. Explore the deep Buddhist philosophy of "forgiveness" behind his mask and its impact on Japanese culture.
Anime

[Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind] A Journey into Hayao Miyazaki’s Beautiful Yet Cruel Post-Apocalyptic World and the Depths of Japanese Culture

Discover the deep cultural, historical, and environmental themes behind Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. Read our comprehensive analysis on Japanese animism and eco-fiction.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Peculiar Fate of the Man Washed Ashore on a Deserted Island

Discover the captivating Japanese folktale of a man washed ashore on a deserted island. Explore its deep connections to Japanese culture, animism, and the profound philosophy of coexistence with nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Day is February 23? Unveiling the History and Culture Behind Japan’s “Emperor’s Birthday”

Explore the profound history and cultural significance of Japan's Emperor's Birthday on February 23. Learn about the Reiwa era, the Imperial Palace public greeting, and what makes this changing holiday so unique.
Anime

Director Makoto Shinkai’s animated film “Suzume” (Suzume no Tojimari) has become a massive hit worldwide. While it captivates audiences with its overwhelming visual beauty and emotional soundtrack, the true depth of this work lies in its roots in Japanese history, unique religious views, and the social issues facing modern Japan. In this article, we will thoroughly explain the charm of this film, which is more than just a fantasy anime, and the profound Japanese cultural background that overseas viewers might overlook.

Discover the deep cultural and historical meanings behind Makoto Shinkai's anime masterpiece, Suzume (Suzume no Tojimari). Read our comprehensive review and analysis of its connection to Japanese history and Shinto beliefs.