2026-01

Japanese Folktale Series

Clash of the Titans: Nio and Dokkoi

Have you ever noticed the gigantic, muscular statues with terrifying expressions standing at the gates of Japanese templ...
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 10th: “Toka Ebisu” – The Day Japanese Businessmen Go Wild for Success

Discover Toka Ebisu, Japan's wildest festival for business prosperity held on Jan 10. Learn about the "Lucky Men Run," bamboo charms, and why Japanese merchants rely on Ebessan for success.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Scorching Sun and a Farmer’s Desperate Cry

Discover the Japanese folktale "Oni no Yomesan" (The Ogre's Wife). A story of drought, a careless promise, and a girl who married a Thunder God. Explore the cultural meaning of Morning Glories and "Kotodama" in this deep dive.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 9th: “Yoi-Ebisu” – The Enthusiastic Eve of Business Prosperity

Discover Yoi-Ebisu (Jan 9), the energetic eve of the Toka Ebisu festival in Japan. Explore the history of the God of Commerce, the lucky bamboo tradition, and why millions pray for wealth on this night.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 8: The Start of Heisei / A Day of Era Transformation

Discover the significance of January 8, 1989, in Japanese history. Learn about the transition from Showa to Heisei, the "Gengo" era system, and the cultural impact of this monumental day.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Silence and Rebirth: January 7th, “Jinjitsu no Sekku” and the Tale of Nanakusa-gayu

Discover the history and meaning of Jinjitsu no Sekku (Jan 7th) in Japan. Learn why Japanese people eat Nanakusa-gayu (Seven Herb Porridge) for health and longevity.
Japanese Folktale Series

Himebuchi no Uta: The Song of the Princess Abyss – A Tale of Tragedy and Beauty

Discover the tragic legend of Himebuchi no Uta (The Song of the Princess Pool). A Japanese folktale of a fleeing princess, a cruel war, and a haunting song left behind in the Kiso River.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 6th: Tokyo Fire Department Dezomeshiki — A Spectacle Where Edo “Iki” Meets Modern Disaster Prevention

Discover the Tokyo Fire Department Dezomeshiki held on Jan 6th. Explore the history of Edo firefighters, the incredible Hashigo-nori acrobatics, and the modern spirit of disaster prevention in Japan.
Japanese Folktale Series

A Tale of Life Shrouded in Mystery: The Fox’s Childbirth

Dive into the mystical world of "Kitsune no Osan" (The Fox's Childbirth). A retelling of the classic Japanese folktale where a human doctor aids a fox spirit, exploring cultural meanings of Inari, yokai, and gratitude.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Shokan (Lesser Cold): The Beginning of Japan’s Deep Winter

Discover the meaning of "Shokan" (Lesser Cold), marked on January 5th. Explore Japanese winter traditions like Kanchu-mimai, Kan-geiko, and the philosophy of endurance in this deep dive into the 24 Solar Terms.