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Japanese Folktale Series

The Secret Dream That Forged a Destiny: Wisdom and Culture in the Japanese Folktale “Hatsuyume Choja”

A detailed introduction to the Japanese folktale 'Hatsuyume Choja' (The New Year's Dream Millionaire), deeply analyzing its themes of secrecy, the spirit of 'Wa' (harmony), and practical success philosophy for an international audience.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 15th is Doll’s Day: The Culture of Respect and Souls in Japanese Dolls – Ningyo no Hi

Discover the meaning of Japan's Doll's Day (October 15th) and the profound ritual of Ningyo Kuyo (Doll Memorial Service). Learn about the Japanese concept of "soul in objects," Animism, and the spirit of Mottainai that defines this unique tradition.
Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale Series: Obasute Yama (The Mountain Where the Aged Were Abandoned) – Love and the Power of Wisdom

A deep dive into the classic Japanese folktale 'Obasute Yama' (The Mountain Where the Aged Were Abandoned), exploring the themes of filial piety, the value of elderly wisdom, and their connection to Japanese culture for international readers.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 14th: Railway Day – The Story of the Iron Road that Supported Japan’s Modernization | What’s Today’s Special Day Series

October 14th is 'Railway Day' (Tetsudo no Hi), commemorating the opening of Japan's first railway. This article delves into the history of Japan's modernization, world-class punctuality, the spirit of Omotenashi, and technological innovation, revealing the deeper cultural significance of railways for an international audience.
Japanese Folktale Series

Can You Hear It? The Voices of Animals: “Kikimimizukin” and the Japanese Spirit of Coexistence with Nature | Japanese Folktale Series

A thorough analysis of the Japanese folktale 'Kikimimizukin' (The Listening Cap), revealing the Japanese view of nature, animism, and the culture of 'Ongaishi' (returning a favor). We introduce the deep-rooted 'Yaoyorozu no Kami' (Eight Million Gods) spirit to international readers, offering lessons for modern society.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 13th: The Profound Story of “Moving Day” (Hikkoshi no Hi) Connecting Japan’s Life and Spirit – KIRI53.com

October 13th is 'Moving Day' (Hikkoshi no Hi), originating from Tokugawa Ieyasu's entry into Edo. This article explores the cultural significance of 'Hikkoshi Soba,' the spirit of 'Danshari,' and the Japanese concern for new beginnings, written for international readers.
Japanese Folktale Series

Unraveling the Sea’s Secret: The Universal Lesson of the Japanese Folktale ‘Shio Fuki Usu’ (The Tide-Churning Mill)

Why is the sea salty? This age-old question is answered by the Japanese folktale 'Shio Fuki Usu.' We analyze the contrast between the greedy brother and the honest brother to explore core Japanese cultural values like 'the spirit of non-attachment' and 'harmony with nature.' What universal lessons do these sea tales convey today?
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 12th: Bashō-ki – Commemorating the Poetic Soul of Japan and the Wandering Master

October 12th is Basho-ki. Explore the life, philosophy (Wabi-Sabi, Karumi), and enduring legacy of Matsuo Bashō, the "Poetic Saint" who transformed Haiku into a world-class art form. Discover the spirit of the Japanese wandering poet.
Japanese Folktale Series

【The Depth of Japanese Folktales】’The Sparrow, the Woodpecker, and the Turtle Dove’ Teaches Japanese Society and the Birds’ Wisdom

Introducing the Japanese folktale 'The Sparrow, the Woodpecker, and the Turtle Dove,' this article explores the underlying Japanese ethics of 'Wa' (harmony), 'cooperation,' and 'sincerity.' A deep dive into the wisdom of coexistence with nature and crisis management, relating it to modern-day issues.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 What’s Today’s Special Day Series: October 11th – The Miraculous Birth of “Ameya Yokocho”

Discover the untold story of Tokyo's Ameyoko (Ameya Yokocho). Learn how this vibrant street, born from a post-war black market, became a symbol of Japanese recovery, culture, and chaotic energy. Essential reading for Japan travelers.