“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Hidden Face of Christmas Eve: The Day Japan’s “School Lunch” Began

Discover why Dec 24 is School Lunch Commemorative Day in Japan. Explore the history of Kyushoku, the Toban system, and how Japanese school lunches teach culture and responsibility.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 23rd. While much of the world is wrapped in the festive spirit of Christmas, for the skyline of Tokyo, this date holds a special, monumental significance. On this day in 1958, the Tokyo Tower was completed and officially opened. Standing at 333 meters (1,092 feet), it boasted the title of the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower at the time. Piercing the sky with its vibrant red framework, it stood not just as a broadcasting antenna, but as a powerful symbol of Japan’s post-war recovery and rapid economic growth.

Discover the history of Tokyo Tower, completed on Dec 23, 1958. Explore its post-war significance, engineering marvels, and why it remains Tokyo's beloved symbol over Skytree.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[December 22] Toji (Winter Solstice): The Rebirth of the Sun and the Japanese Ritual of Renewal

Discover the Japanese traditions of Toji (Winter Solstice). Learn why Japanese people bathe in Yuzu and eat Kabocha on December 22nd. Explore the spiritual meaning of Ichiyo Raifuku and how to invite luck into your life.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 21: The Legend Begins. The Day Comic Market (Comiket) Was Born

Discover the history of December 21, 1975, the day the first Comic Market (Comiket) was held in Japan. Explore how a small gathering of 32 circles evolved into the world's largest celebration of fan creativity and changed Japanese pop culture forever.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【December 20】Department Store Opening Day: The Revolution of Japanese Shopping Culture

Discover the history of December 20, Japan's Department Store Opening Day. Learn how Mitsukoshi's 1904 declaration revolutionized shopping, created the "Depachika" culture, and blended Western retail with Japanese tradition.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Day the Samurai Took to the Skies: December 19th, Japan’s First Flight

Discover the history of December 19, 1910, when Japan conquered the skies for the first time. Learn how the Meiji spirit of innovation transformed samurai descendants into aviators at Yoyogi Park.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 18: Tokyo Station Completion Anniversary – A Century of Resilience and Beauty

Discover the history of Tokyo Station on its Dec 18th anniversary. From Kingo Tatsuno's 1914 red brick design to the 2012 restoration. Explore the cultural significance of Japan's central terminal.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 What Day is it Today? December 17th: The Dawn of Women’s Suffrage in Japan

Explore the profound history of December 17, 1945, when Japan's House of Representatives Election Law was revised, granting women the right to vote. Learn about the activists, the post-war democratic reforms, and the enduring impact on Japanese culture and politics.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 16th: Exploring the Deep Meaning of Japan’s “Taisetsu” and the Arrival of Winter

Explore the profound meaning of Taisetsu (Major Snow) around December 16th in Japan. Discover Japanese winter traditions, from the deep-seated "Culture of Purification" (Susuharai) to the cozy communal life around the Kotatsu. A deep dive into nature-harmony and preparing for the New Year.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 December 15th: What is Today in Japan? The Start of New Year’s Post Special Handling – A Call for New Year’s Preparation

Discover the cultural significance of December 15th, "New Year's Post Special Handling Day" (Nengajo) in Japan. Learn why this analog tradition of simultaneously delivering New Year's greetings on January 1st embodies Japan's deep-rooted values of connection, gratitude, and Omotenashi.