“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Shokan (Lesser Cold): The Beginning of Japan’s Deep Winter

Discover the meaning of "Shokan" (Lesser Cold), marked on January 5th. Explore Japanese winter traditions like Kanchu-mimai, Kan-geiko, and the philosophy of endurance in this deep dive into the 24 Solar Terms.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 4, 1948: The Bridge of Voices Across the Pacific and Japan’s Culture of Connection

Discover the history of January 4, 1948, when international phone service between Japan and the US resumed. Explore the cultural significance of connection, high costs, and the Japanese concept of Kotodama.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 3rd: Between Silence and Bustle. Decoding the Finale of “San-ga-nichi”

Discover the cultural significance of January 3rd in Japan, the final day of San-ga-nichi. Learn about the Hakone Ekiden, Mikka Tororo, and the transition from sacred celebration back to daily life.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 2nd: Divining the Year Through Dreams, Calligraphy, and Commerce

Discover the deep cultural significance of January 2nd in Japan. Explore the traditions of Hatsuyume (First Dream), Kakizome (Calligraphy), and Hatsuuri (Lucky Bags). A guide to Japanese New Year rituals.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Dawn of Silence and Rebirth: The True Meaning of Japan’s “Ganjitsu”

Discover the profound meaning of Ganjitsu (January 1st) in Japan. From Hatsumode to Osechi, explore how Japanese people celebrate the New Year with silence, rebirth, and tradition.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 31st: Omisoka – A Ritual of Silence and Rebirth

Discover the spiritual depth of Omisoka (Dec 31) in Japan. From the 108 bells (Joya no Kane) to Toshikoshi Soba, explore why Japanese New Year's Eve is a ritual of resetting and purification, not just a party.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 30th: Subway Anniversary (Chikatetsu Kinenbi)

Discover the history of Japan's first subway opening on December 30, 1927. Explore how the Tokyo Metro shaped Japanese culture, punctuality, and urban order in this detailed guide.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 29th: The Day Japan’s Aesthetics Were Recognized by the World

On December 29, 1993, Himeji Castle and Horyu-ji became Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the history, the contrast between samurai aesthetics and Buddhist spirituality, and the unique Japanese philosophy of wooden architecture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 28, 1925: The Unification of East and West, The Birth of the Dai Nihon Sumo Association—Dawn of a National Sport

Discover the history of December 28, 1925, when the Tokyo and Osaka Sumo Associations merged. Learn how this event shaped Sumo into Japan's sacred national sport and preserved ancient traditions.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 27, 1958: The Day Japan Decided to Protect Every Life

Discover the history of Japan's National Health Insurance Act, promulgated on Dec 27, 1958. Learn how "Universal Health Coverage" shapes Japanese culture and longevity.