Japanese Folktale Series

Exploring Japanese Folklore for Overseas Readers: The Deep Meaning of “The Pear-Picking Brothers” – A Tale of Ultimate Filial Piety

Explore Nashi-tori Kyoudai, a Japanese folktale where the youngest son's humility and courage save his family. Discover the cultural significance of filial piety and the "Youngest Child Success Tale" in Japan. Essential reading for understanding Japanese values.

2025.10.25

Japanese Folktale Series

Kaminagahime: The Japanese Folktale of the Long-Haired Princess and the Secrets of Black Hair Culture

Unravel the ancient Japanese folktale of Kaminagahime (The Long-Haired Princess), a story of sacrifice, divine grace, and the black hair that led a commoner to become an Empress. Explore its connection to the Buddhist Dojoji Temple and the deep cultural significance of kurokami (black hair) in Japan.

2025.10.24

Japanese Folktale Series

【The Wind God and the Children】The Whimsical Kami and Japanese View of Nature | Japanese Folktale Series

A deep dive into the Japanese folktale 'Kaze no Kami to Kodomo' (The Wind God and the Children). Full story, analysis of the whimsical South Wind and the kind North Wind, and how it reflects Japanese animism and communal bonds for international readers.

2025.10.23

Japanese Folktale Series

The Japanese Cinderella Story: “Hachikazuki Hime” Reveals Trials and True Beauty

Explore the Japanese folktale 'Hachikazuki Hime' (The Bowl-Wearing Princess). A deep dive for international readers into the true beauty hidden by the bowl, the trials of the stepmother, Kannon worship, and Japanese cultural values.

2025.10.22

Japanese Folktale Series

The Japanese Humor and Spirit of Tolerance: The Tale of Shojoji no Tanukibayashi (The Badger-Dog’s Drumming at Shojo-ji Temple)

Explore 'Shojoji no Tanukibayashi,' a classic Japanese folktale. Learn how an eccentric monk teaches a profound lesson on compassion, cultural acceptance, and the uniquely Japanese spirit of 'Wa' (Harmony) through a drumming contest with mischievous Tanuki.

2025.10.21

Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folktale Series】Understanding the Power of Nature: Wisdom and Faith in ‘Chōfuku-zan no Yamanba’

Explore the Japanese folktale 'Chōfuku-zan no Yamanba.' Discover the dual nature of the mountain hag, the cultural philosophy of 'Okagesama,' and the ancient Japanese wisdom of coexisting with nature's power. A deep dive into Japanese spirituality for international readers.

2025.10.20

Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folktale Series】A Warning to the Greedy Neighbor: What the Japanese Folktale ‘Saru Jizo’ Reveals about the Japanese Spirit

Explore the Japanese folktale 'Saru Jizo' (The Monkey Jizo). Discover how the story of an honest man and his greedy neighbor reveals core Japanese values: the triumph of selflessness, the importance of purity, and a deep reverence for nature and deities. A must-read for Japan culture enthusiasts.

2025.10.19

Japanese Folktale Series

Chikarataro: The Mud-Born Hero & The Japanese Spirit of Strength and Nature

Explore the Japanese folktale of Chikarataro, the boy born from mud with superhuman strength. A deep dive into the tale's connection to Japanese animism, the spirit of Wa (harmony), and the philosophy of wielding great power for the public good.

2025.10.18

Japanese Folktale Series

The Dragon’s Abyss (Ryu no Fuchi): A Deep Warning Awakened by Human Greed

Dive into "The Dragon's Abyss" (Ryu no Fuchi), a powerful Japanese folktale about two brothers, hidden treasure, and a wooden dragon brought to life by human malice. Explore its lessons on Ryūjin (Dragon God) reverence, the principle of "Taru wo Shiru" (knowing when enough is enough), and the profound connection between nature and ethics in Japanese culture.

2025.10.17

Japanese Folktale Series

Ushiwakamaru: The Genesis of a Japanese Legend – The Story of the Tengu and Benkei | Japanese Folktale Series

Dive deep into the story of Ushiwakamaru, the boyhood of tragic hero Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Discover his secret training with the Kurama Tengu, his famous duel with Benkei, and the cultural roots of 'Hogan Biiki' (sympathy for the underdog) in Japanese culture.

2025.10.16

Japanese Folktale Series