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Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folktale】The Yamabushi and the Baby Tanuki: A Battle of Wits

Discover the humorous and spiritual Japanese folktale of "The Yamabushi and the Baby Tanuki." Explore the cultural meaning of mountain ascetics, shapeshifting Tanuki, and the lesson of humility in nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 23rd is “Ichiju-Sansai Day”: The Golden Ratio of Japanese Diet and Wisdom of Health

Discover the wisdom of Ichiju-Sansai (One Soup, Three Dishes) on Jan 23. Learn why this 1-2-3 rule is the foundation of the healthy Japanese diet and culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Snake Wife (Hebi Nyobo): A Tale of Sacrifice and Motherhood

Discover the tragic and beautiful Japanese folktale "The Snake Wife" (Hebi Nyobo). A deep dive into the story of a mother who sacrificed her eyes for her child, exploring themes of taboo, nature worship, and unconditional love.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 22nd is Curry Rice Day: The Story of Japan’s “National Dish” Born from School Lunches

Discover why January 22 is Curry Rice Day in Japan. Explore the history of school lunches, the British Navy connection, and why Japanese curry is unique. A deep dive into Japan's national dish.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“Charara, Charara, Charararara…” The Day a Melody Changed Japanese Dining Tables Forever

Discover the history of Japan's longest-running cooking show, "Kewpie 3-Minute Cooking," starting Jan 21, 1963. Explore how this iconic 3-minute program changed Japanese food culture, popularized mayonnaise, and defined home cooking.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Golden Camellia of Tamaya: A Legend of Nature’s Verdict

Discover the Japanese folktale "Tamaya no Tsubaki" from Niigata. A story of a merchant who buried his gold, only to have nature reveal his secret. Explore the cultural meaning of the Camellia and Animism.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【January 20】Daikan (Major Cold): The Day Japan Loves and Utilizes the Cold

Discover "Daikan" (Jan 20), Japan's Major Cold solar term. Explore why Japanese culture embraces the freezing cold for brewing the best Sake (Kan-jikomi), spiritual training (Kan-geiko), and lucky foods like golden eggs.
Japanese Folktale Series

Deep within the mountains of Japan, countless legends remain about tools possessing mysterious powers. The story I will introduce today is not just about a magical tool, but a tale of a “Masu” (measuring box) that reflects the true nature of the human heart. This story speaks to us with humor and a bit of irony about the meaning of wealth and what lies at the end of greed.

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Mysterious Masu." A story of an honest man, a greedy neighbor, and a magic wooden box that multiplies whatever is inside. Explore the cultural meaning of the Masu cup.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is January 19th? “Nodojiman Day” and the Origins of Japan’s Karaoke Culture

Discover the significance of January 19th, "Nodojiman Day" in Japan. Explore how a 1946 radio show birthed the nation's karaoke culture and community spirit.
Japanese Folktale Series

Introduction: A Story of Souls Residing in Dolls

Discover the Japanese folktale "Hina no Yobayashi." A moving story about Hina dolls coming to life to play music for their poor owners. Explore the culture of Tsukumogami and Hina Matsuri.