2025-10

Japanese Folktale Series

Unraveling the Sea’s Secret: The Universal Lesson of the Japanese Folktale ‘Shio Fuki Usu’ (The Tide-Churning Mill)

Why is the sea salty? This age-old question is answered by the Japanese folktale 'Shio Fuki Usu.' We analyze the contrast between the greedy brother and the honest brother to explore core Japanese cultural values like 'the spirit of non-attachment' and 'harmony with nature.' What universal lessons do these sea tales convey today?
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 12th: Bashō-ki – Commemorating the Poetic Soul of Japan and the Wandering Master

October 12th is Basho-ki. Explore the life, philosophy (Wabi-Sabi, Karumi), and enduring legacy of Matsuo Bashō, the "Poetic Saint" who transformed Haiku into a world-class art form. Discover the spirit of the Japanese wandering poet.
Japanese Folktale Series

【The Depth of Japanese Folktales】’The Sparrow, the Woodpecker, and the Turtle Dove’ Teaches Japanese Society and the Birds’ Wisdom

Introducing the Japanese folktale 'The Sparrow, the Woodpecker, and the Turtle Dove,' this article explores the underlying Japanese ethics of 'Wa' (harmony), 'cooperation,' and 'sincerity.' A deep dive into the wisdom of coexistence with nature and crisis management, relating it to modern-day issues.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 What’s Today’s Special Day Series: October 11th – The Miraculous Birth of “Ameya Yokocho”

Discover the untold story of Tokyo's Ameyoko (Ameya Yokocho). Learn how this vibrant street, born from a post-war black market, became a symbol of Japanese recovery, culture, and chaotic energy. Essential reading for Japan travelers.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale Series: A Tale of Wisdom and Fortune – The Rich Man Tanishi (Tanishi Choja)

The full story of 'Tanishi Choja' and a deep dive into the Japanese cultural values of 'Hoon-Kansha' (Gratitude) and 'Coexistence with Nature' embedded in the tale, perfect for international readers. Discover the meaning behind this classic Japanese folktale.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Japan’s National Holiday】”Sports Day” and the 1964 Tokyo Olympics: A Beacon of Hope for Global Reentry

Discover the history and cultural significance of Japan's "Sports Day," a national holiday commemorating the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Learn how the Games symbolized Japan's revival, showcased its technology, and fostered the spirit of Konjō and Omotenashi.
Japanese Folktale Series

Exploring the Japanese Heart: The Folktale “Tenpuku Chifuku” and the Philosophy of “Toku” (Virtue)

Dive into "Tenpuku Chifuku" (Heaven's/Earth's Luck). We analyze why the greedy man's treasure turned to bees while the honest man received gold from the sky, linking the tale to the core Japanese value of Toku (Virtue) and the power of honesty.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is October 9th? Tool Day: Unraveling Japan’s Culture of Cherishing Objects from Asakusa’s “Kappabashi”

Discover Japan's unique "Tool Day" (10/9) and the culture of gratitude for objects. Explore Kappabashi Tool Street, the tradition of the Tool Memorial Service, and the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktales: “Buying a Dream” – Seize Your Destiny and Overcome Adversity

Explore the deep meaning of the Japanese folktale "Yume o Kau." A poor merchant's decision to buy a dream leads to immense success through belief and Gaman (perseverance). Discover how this story reflects core Japanese cultural values like integrity and the spiritual significance of dreams.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Sekki】Kanro (Cold Dew) on October 8th: Deciphering the Deep Roots of Autumn’s Arrival in Japanese Culture

A detailed explanation of Kanro (Cold Dew), the 17th of the 24 Sekki, around October 8th. We introduce its meaning, history, its connection to Japanese culture, including the arrival of geese, the blooming of chrysanthemums, and harvest festivals, and the underlying Japanese aesthetic of 'Mitate.' A super long-form blog post for international readers delving deep into the Japanese spirit of cherishing the change of seasons.