2025-12

Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folktale】The Tragedy of Tarot-maru: Why Was the Faithful Dog Killed by His Master?

Discover the tragic Japanese folktale of Taro-maru, the faithful dog who saved his master from a giant serpent even after death. A deep dive into Matagi culture and the bond between man and beast.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Taste of Enlightenment: Why December 25th is the Birthday of Japanese Chocolate

Discover why Dec 25 is the birthday of chocolate in Japan. Explore the history of Yonezu Fugetsudo in 1878, the cultural impact of "Bunmei Kaika," and how Japan adapted Western sweets.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Hidden Face of Christmas Eve: The Day Japan’s “School Lunch” Began

Discover why Dec 24 is School Lunch Commemorative Day in Japan. Explore the history of Kyushoku, the Toban system, and how Japanese school lunches teach culture and responsibility.
Japanese Folktale Series

Introduction: The Tale of a Fox Who Longed for the Sky

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Fox Who Flew" (Sora wo Tonda Kitsune). A touching story of a Kitsune named Gin who challenges the sky. Explore the cultural meaning of transformation and finding one's true place.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 23rd. While much of the world is wrapped in the festive spirit of Christmas, for the skyline of Tokyo, this date holds a special, monumental significance. On this day in 1958, the Tokyo Tower was completed and officially opened. Standing at 333 meters (1,092 feet), it boasted the title of the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower at the time. Piercing the sky with its vibrant red framework, it stood not just as a broadcasting antenna, but as a powerful symbol of Japan’s post-war recovery and rapid economic growth.

Discover the history of Tokyo Tower, completed on Dec 23, 1958. Explore its post-war significance, engineering marvels, and why it remains Tokyo's beloved symbol over Skytree.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Wolf and the Daughter: The Legend of the Wolf’s Eyelashes

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Wolf and the Daughter" (The Wolf's Eyelashes). Unlike Western myths, the Japanese Wolf is a god. Learn about "Honne" and hidden truths in this deep cultural analysis.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[December 22] Toji (Winter Solstice): The Rebirth of the Sun and the Japanese Ritual of Renewal

Discover the Japanese traditions of Toji (Winter Solstice). Learn why Japanese people bathe in Yuzu and eat Kabocha on December 22nd. Explore the spiritual meaning of Ichiyo Raifuku and how to invite luck into your life.
Japanese Folktale Series

Hidden within the silence of the Japanese countryside lies a mysterious story where humor and faith intersect. Today, I am introducing the tale of “Nise Honzon” (The Counterfeit Buddha). This is not merely a funny story. It is a very Japanese fable that blends the “form of faith” held by Japanese people with their familiarity with the natural world.

Discover the hilarious Japanese folktale "Nise Honzon" (The Counterfeit Buddha). A shapeshifting Tanuki tricks a hunter by posing as a statue. Explore the cultural meaning of Tanuki and Buddhism in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 21: The Legend Begins. The Day Comic Market (Comiket) Was Born

Discover the history of December 21, 1975, the day the first Comic Market (Comiket) was held in Japan. Explore how a small gathering of 32 circles evolved into the world's largest celebration of fan creativity and changed Japanese pop culture forever.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Tragic Love of the Willow Spirit: The Story of “Oryu Willow”

Discover the hauntingly beautiful Japanese folktale of "Oryu Willow" (Green Willow). Explore the tragic romance between a samurai and a tree spirit, and uncover the deep cultural roots of Japanese Animism and nature worship.