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Japanese Folktale Series

Jigoku no Abaremono (The Rampage in Hell): A Tale of Japanese Craftsmanship Even in the Afterlife

Discover "Jigoku no Abaremono," a hilarious Japanese folktale where a doctor, priest, and acrobat outwit the King of Hell. Explore the cultural meaning of Japanese Hell and Rakugo humor.
2025.11.23
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Autumn in Japan is not merely a change of seasons. It is a sacred time when we receive blessings from the earth, and gods and humans become one through “food.” Today is November 23rd. While most modern Japanese recognize this day as “Labor Thanksgiving Day” (Kinro Kansha no Hi) and enjoy a public holiday, the true form of this day is hidden within the most important and mysterious imperial ritual that has been protected for over 2,000 years.

Discover the deep spiritual meaning of November 23rd in Japan. Beyond Labor Thanksgiving Day lies "Niinamesai," an ancient ritual where the Emperor communes with gods through rice. Explore Japan's soul.
2025.11.23
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

There is a story passed down in Japan, often told on rainy nights or during the humid heat of summer. It is not merely a ghost story intended to scare, but a tale of “love” that persists even after death. Today, I will introduce the legendary folktale known across Japan, particularly in Kyoto, as “The Child-Rearing Ghost” (Kosodate Yurei). While the word “ghost” may evoke fear, by the time you finish reading this story, you will likely feel a distinct warmth in your heart.

Discover the legend of the Child-Rearing Ghost (Kosodate Yurei). A poignant Japanese folktale from Kyoto about a mother's love that defied death to save her baby. Read the full story and cultural analysis here.
2025.11.22
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Quiet Approach of Winter: Exploring “Shōsetsu” (Small Snow)

November 22nd is "Shōsetsu" in the Japanese calendar. Explore the meaning of Small Snow, the tradition of dried foods like Hoshigaki, and the cultural shift into winter in Japan.
2025.11.22
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Walking along the ancient roads of Japan, you may occasionally come across weathered stone monuments or old, decaying shrines. These are not merely ruins; they are fragments of memories where people once confronted “something beyond human understanding.”

Discover the thrilling Japanese folktale of "Sarugami Taiji" (Shippeitaro). A story of a brave dog, a terrifying monkey god, and the legend of human sacrifice in ancient Japan. Read the full analysis.
2025.11.21
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 21st is “Fried Chicken Day” in Japan: Why Did the Nation Fall in Love with This Taste?

Discover why November 21st is Fried Chicken Day in Japan. Explore the history of the first KFC opening in 1970, the unique "Christmas Chicken" tradition, and how Japan distinguishes between Karaage and Fried Chicken.
2025.11.21
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Azukitogi: The Mystery of the Bean Washer

Discover the eerie tale of Azukitogi, the Japanese Yokai who washes beans by the river. Explore the story, cultural analysis, and the mystery behind the "Shoki Shoki" sound in this deep dive into Japanese folklore.
2025.11.20
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 20: The Day Japanese Hospitality Met the West. What is “Hotel Day”?

Discover why November 20 is celebrated as Hotel Day in Japan. Explore the history of the Imperial Hotel, the blend of Western and Japanese hospitality, and how it changed travel culture in Japan.
2025.11.20
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Winter in Japan is a season of breathtaking beauty, but also of ruthless severity. Buried deep within the snowy mountain villages lie stories of silence and sorrow. Today, I would like to introduce a Japanese folktale that symbolizes the deep “compassion” and “love” found in the Japanese soul: “The Tale of the Futon” (also known as “Futon Kabuse” or “The Poor Birds”). This story may differ from the happy-ending fairytales you are used to. However, within it lies the true essence of Japan.

Discover the heartbreaking Japanese folktale "The Tale of the Futon." A story of poverty, sibling love, and transformation into birds that reveals the deep spirituality and history of Japan.
2025.11.19
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

In the mornings in Japan, you often see a vibrant green figure on the school commute routes. This isn’t just a uniform; it is a symbol of Japan’s “myth of safety” and the strength of its local communities. November 19th is known in Japan as “Green Auntie Day” (Midori no Obasan no Hi). Why green? Why “Auntie”? delving into this anniversary reveals the post-war history of Japan and its unique spirituality dedicated to protecting children.

Discover the history of "Green Auntie Day" on November 19. Learn how these school crossing guards symbolize Japan's community spirit, safety culture, and the "Traffic War" era. A deep dive into Japanese daily life.
2025.11.19
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
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