“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 17th, “Shogi Day”: The Japanese Spirit and a Unique Global Rule on the Board

Nov 17 is Shogi Day. Discover why Japanese chess is unique. The "Mochigoma" (captured pieces) rule changes everything. Learn its connection to Bushido, Tokugawa Shoguns, and the modern AI battles.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 16th, Kindergarten Anniversary: A Symbol of Japan’s Modernization and the First Step in Learning “Group Harmony”

Discover the history of Japan's first kindergarten, established on November 16, 1876. Explore how early childhood education shapes Japanese culture, from group harmony (Wa) to "Kawaii" bento boxes.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 15 “Shichi-Go-San” — Japan’s Beautiful Rite of Passage Celebrated at Winter’s Approach

Explore Shichi-Go-San (November 15), Japan's beautiful rite of passage celebrating children's growth (ages 3, 5, 7), and its connection to 'Ritto' (the start of winter).
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 14th “Women’s Lib Day”: The Anniversary of the Revolt Against Japan’s “Good Wife, Wise Mother”

Learn about November 14th in Japan, "Women's Lib Day." Discover the 1970 demonstration that challenged the "Good Wife, Wise Mother" ideal and sparked Japan's second-wave feminism.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 13th. Did you know that this day is celebrated in Japan as “Urushi no Hi,” or “Lacquer Day”?

November 13th is 'Urushi Day' (Lacquer Day) in Japan. Discover the deep history, from a Heian-era prince to 9,000-year-old artifacts. We explore why this "poisonous" sap is Japan's most treasured material and its link to the spirit of monozukuri.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 12th is Yōfuku Kinenbi: The Day Japan Chose the Suit

November 12th is Japan's "Western Clothing Day." On this day in 1872, Japan officially adopted suits. Discover the deep history of this Meiji Restoration decision and how it reflects the "Wakon Yōsai" (Japanese Spirit, Western Tech) culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 11th is Cheese Day: How Japanese Culture Embraced a Western Flavor

Discover why November 11th is Cheese Day in Japan. Explore its ancient origins (700 AD) and how a Western food was adopted, adapted, and perfected by modern Japanese culinary culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 10th is Elevator Day: The Technology and Culture That Expanded Japan Vertically

Nov 10th is Elevator Day in Japan. Discover how the 1890 debut of Japan's first elevator in Asakusa's Ryōunkaku shaped Japanese society, architecture, and unspoken rules.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 9th: The Day Japan “Deleted” a Month and a Half

On Nov 9, 1872, Japan abandoned the lunar calendar for the Gregorian system. Discover the urgent political and secret financial reasons behind this massive cultural shift.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 8th, Boiler Day: How Japan’s Reverence for Fire Evolved into Modern Safety Awareness

Discover why November 8th is Boiler Day in Japan. It's not just about industry; it's rooted in the ancient 'Fuigo Matsuri' (Bellows Festival) and the Shinto respect for tools.