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Japanese Folktale Series

Sokotsu Sobei: The King of Carelessness and His Epic Fails

Discover the Japanese folktale of "Sokotsu Sobei," a man so absent-minded he eats incense at a funeral. Explore the humor of Edo period Rakugo and the cultural acceptance of human flaws.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Revolution in a Box: Unpacking “Instant Curry Day” on November 27th

Discover the history of November 27th, Instant Curry Day in Japan. Learn how the invention of solid curry roux blocks transformed a foreign dish into Japan's beloved national comfort food.
Japanese Folktale Series

The Water Seed: A Miracle Blooming in the Parched Earth

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Water Seed" (Mizu no Tane). A story about a mysterious monk, Kobo Daishi, and how a single act of kindness brought water to a drought-stricken village. Explore the cultural significance of water in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 26th “Pen Day”: Unraveling Japanese Literature and World-Class Stationery Culture

November 26 is Pen Day in Japan. Explore the history of the Japan P.E.N. Club, Toson Shimazaki, and why Japanese stationery culture is world-class. Rediscover the art of handwriting.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Ushikata to Yamanba: A Battle of Wits in the Silent Mountains

Discover the chilling Japanese folktale "Ushikata to Yamanba." A cattleman faces a mountain witch in a battle of wits. Explore the cultural meaning of the Mackerel Road and Yokai legends.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 25th: “OL Day” and the Evolution of Japanese Office Culture

Discover the origin of Japan's "OL Day" on Nov 25. Learn how the term shifted from "BG" to "Office Lady" in 1963 and how Japanese work culture has evolved for women.
Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folklore】Funa Yurei: The Boat Spirits Seeking a Ladle

Discover the chilling tale of Funa Yurei, Japanese ship ghosts that sink boats with a ladle. Learn the folklore, cultural meaning, and how to survive this maritime horror.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 24th is “Opera Day”: The Day Meiji Japan Met Western Voices

Discover why November 24 is celebrated as "Opera Day" in Japan. Explore the history of the first performance of Faust in 1894, the Meiji era's cultural modernization, and how Western music fused with Japanese tradition.
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.
“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.