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January 18: The Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) — A Tragedy of Kimono and the Rebirth of Edo

Discover the haunting legend of the Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) on Jan 18, 1657. A cursed kimono that destroyed Edo and reshaped modern Tokyo's history.

2026.01.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 17: The Day Silence Was Broken – The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and the “First Year of Volunteering”

On January 17, 1995, Kobe was struck by a devastating earthquake. Discover how this tragedy transformed Japan's disaster preparedness and sparked the "First Year of Volunteering," redefining the concept of Kizuna (bonds).

2026.01.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Beyond the Forbidden Door in the Misty Mountains: “Uguisu Chōja”

Dive into the haunting Japanese folktale of "Uguisu Chōja." Discover the story of a forbidden mansion, the Nightingale spirit, and what it reveals about Japanese culture and the "Prohibition of Looking."

2026.01.16

Japanese Folktale Series

Even the King of Hell Needs a Break: The Hidden Truth of January 16th, “Enma Mairi”

Discover the hidden meaning of January 16th in Japan: Enma Saijitsu. Why does the King of Hell take a break? Explore the unique customs of Enma Mairi and the deep cultural philosophy of forgiveness.

2026.01.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] Yamabushi Ishi: The Tale of the Silent Stone and the Price of Arrogance

Discover the haunting Japanese folktale of Yamabushi Ishi. A story of a monk turned to stone, exploring Shugendo, nature worship, and the price of arrogance.

2026.01.15

Japanese Folktale Series

While January 1st is celebrated as “O-shogatsu” (Great New Year), January 15th holds its own special place in Japanese hearts as “Koshogatsu” or the “Little New Year.” This day marks a significant cultural boundary, concluding the festive New Year period. Today, we delve into the profound history and spiritual essence behind this tradition.

Explore the rich traditions of Koshogatsu (January 15th) in Japan. Learn about the spiritual meaning of red bean porridge (Azuki-gayu), the Dondoyaki fire festivals, and the cultural significance of "Women's New Year."

2026.01.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 14th. In the Japanese calendar, this is not merely another winter day. It is a day when the entire nation shed tears, marveled at the resilience of life, and reaffirmed the meaning of the word “hope.” Today is known as “Taro and Jiro Day,” or alternatively, the “Day of Love, Hope, and Courage.”

Discover the touching history of Taro and Jiro Day (Jan 14). Learn how two Sakhalin huskies survived a year in Antarctica and became symbols of hope and resilience in Japanese culture.

2026.01.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Tengu and the Magic Top: Wit Over Supernatural Power

Discover the Japanese folktale of "The Tengu and the Magic Top." A story where a clever boy outsmarts a powerful Tengu using a simple toy. Explore the cultural meaning behind this classic legend.

2026.01.13

Japanese Folktale Series

January 13: The Day Samurai Challenged the Pacific – “Kanrin Maru Departure Day”

On Jan 13, 1860, the Kanrin Maru set sail, marking Japan's first voyage across the Pacific. Discover the story of Katsu Kaishu, Fukuzawa Yukichi, and the samurai spirit that embraced modernization. (1860年1月13日、咸臨丸が出航し、日本初の太平洋横断を記録しました。勝海舟、福沢諭吉、そして近代化を受け入れた侍魂の物語をご覧ください。)

2026.01.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Mystery of the Misty Pass: The Packhorse Driver and the Tanuki

Discover the classic Japanese folktale "Umakata to Tanuki." A story of a shapeshifting Tanuki, a clever driver, and a battle of wits on a misty mountain pass. Explore the cultural meaning behind Japanese Yokai.

2026.01.12

Japanese Folktale Series