“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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."

“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.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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。)

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 12: “Coming of Age Day” (Seijin no Hi) — Japan’s Colorful Rite of Passage

Discover the beauty and complexity of Japan's Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi). Explore the history of samurai rituals, the vibrant Furisode kimonos, and how the shift from age 20 to 18 impacts this modern rite of passage.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 11th Kagami Biraki: A Ritual of the Japanese Soul to Embody Divine Power

Discover the meaning of Kagami Biraki on Jan 11th. Learn why Japanese people break hard mochi with hammers, the link to Samurai seppuku taboos, and the spiritual power of eating sweet red bean soup.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 10th: “Toka Ebisu” – The Day Japanese Businessmen Go Wild for Success

Discover Toka Ebisu, Japan's wildest festival for business prosperity held on Jan 10. Learn about the "Lucky Men Run," bamboo charms, and why Japanese merchants rely on Ebessan for success.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 9th: “Yoi-Ebisu” – The Enthusiastic Eve of Business Prosperity

Discover Yoi-Ebisu (Jan 9), the energetic eve of the Toka Ebisu festival in Japan. Explore the history of the God of Commerce, the lucky bamboo tradition, and why millions pray for wealth on this night.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 8: The Start of Heisei / A Day of Era Transformation

Discover the significance of January 8, 1989, in Japanese history. Learn about the transition from Showa to Heisei, the "Gengo" era system, and the cultural impact of this monumental day.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Silence and Rebirth: January 7th, “Jinjitsu no Sekku” and the Tale of Nanakusa-gayu

Discover the history and meaning of Jinjitsu no Sekku (Jan 7th) in Japan. Learn why Japanese people eat Nanakusa-gayu (Seven Herb Porridge) for health and longevity.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 6th: Tokyo Fire Department Dezomeshiki — A Spectacle Where Edo “Iki” Meets Modern Disaster Prevention

Discover the Tokyo Fire Department Dezomeshiki held on Jan 6th. Explore the history of Edo firefighters, the incredible Hashigo-nori acrobatics, and the modern spirit of disaster prevention in Japan.

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

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