2025-11

Japanese Folktale Series

Outwitting a Monster with a Single Word: The Japanese Trickster Tale of “Tanokyu”

Discover "Tanokyu," a Japanese folktale about an actor who outwits a giant serpent by pretending to be a Tanuki (raccoon dog). Explore its meaning, the role of the Tanuki in Japanese culture, and the art of the "trickster tale."
2025.11.15
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 15 “Shichi-Go-San” — Japan’s Beautiful Rite of Passage Celebrated at Winter’s Approach

Explore Shichi-Go-San (November 15), Japan's beautiful rite of passage celebrating children's growth (ages 3, 5, 7), and its connection to 'Ritto' (the start of winter).
2025.11.15
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

The Mud-Stained Guardians: What “Taue Jizo” Reveals About Japanese Labor and Faith

Discover the Japanese folktale "Taue Jizo." Read the full story and a deep analysis of why Jizo statues helped with rice planting, exploring Japan's sacred view of labor, rice culture, and deep-rooted faith.
2025.11.14
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 14th “Women’s Lib Day”: The Anniversary of the Revolt Against Japan’s “Good Wife, Wise Mother”

Learn about November 14th in Japan, "Women's Lib Day." Discover the 1970 demonstration that challenged the "Good Wife, Wise Mother" ideal and sparked Japan's second-wave feminism.
2025.11.14
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

The Bear and the Fox: A Japanese Folktale on Strength, Wisdom, and Trust

Explore the Japanese folktale of "The Bear and the Fox." A story of strength vs. cunning, this article analyzes its deep ties to Japanese culture, Honne and Tatemae, and the nature of trust.
2025.11.13
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 13th. Did you know that this day is celebrated in Japan as “Urushi no Hi,” or “Lacquer Day”?

November 13th is 'Urushi Day' (Lacquer Day) in Japan. Discover the deep history, from a Heian-era prince to 9,000-year-old artifacts. We explore why this "poisonous" sap is Japan's most treasured material and its link to the spirit of monozukuri.
2025.11.13
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

The Tragic Tale of Sadaroku and Shiro: A Loyal Dog’s Doomed Race Against Time

Discover the heartbreaking Japanese legend of "Sadaroku and Shiro." A tale of a Matagi hunter, a fatal mistake, and a loyal Akita dog's desperate race against time. Explore the deep cultural themes of loyalty, honor, and tragedy.
2025.11.12
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 12th is Yōfuku Kinenbi: The Day Japan Chose the Suit

November 12th is Japan's "Western Clothing Day." On this day in 1872, Japan officially adopted suits. Discover the deep history of this Meiji Restoration decision and how it reflects the "Wakon Yōsai" (Japanese Spirit, Western Tech) culture.
2025.11.12
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese folktales often feature beings that transcend human common sense, posing deep questions to us. The story we are introducing today, “Tanishi Choja” (The Mud Snail Millionaire), is a particularly unique tale.

Discover "Tanishi Choja," the miraculous Japanese folktale where a mud snail marries a wealthy daughter. We analyze the story, its ties to Kannon Buddhist faith, and the deep lessons on not judging by appearances.
2025.11.11
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 11th is Cheese Day: How Japanese Culture Embraced a Western Flavor

Discover why November 11th is Cheese Day in Japan. Explore its ancient origins (700 AD) and how a Western food was adopted, adapted, and perfected by modern Japanese culinary culture.
2025.11.11
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
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