“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 21st: The Birth of Japan’s First “Female College Students” — Three Women Who Broke the Wall of Prejudice

Dive into the inspiring history of August 21, Japan's "Female College Student Day." Discover the dramatic story of three brave women who defied the government in 1913 to change Japanese education and culture forever.

2026.08.21

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 20, 1900: The Shock of the 3rd Elementary School Order That Forged Modern Japan

Discover how the 3rd Elementary School Order of August 20, 1900, made education free and compulsory, skyrocketing Japan's literacy and shaping its highly disciplined culture.

2026.08.20

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 19 is Haikyu!! Day: Discovering the Heat of Japanese Youth (Seishun)

Discover why August 19 is officially Haikyu!! Day in Japan. Explore the deep cultural significance of Japanese high school sports (Bukatsu), the spirit of youth (Seishun), and the beautiful season of Risshu.

2026.08.19

Anime“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[August 18] The Day the US-Japan Bond Turned Washington D.C. Pink: The Moving Story Woven by 2,000 Cherry Trees

Discover the fascinating true story behind the Japanese cherry blossoms in Washington D.C., starting from a historic decision on August 18, 1909. A tale of culture, resilience, and true friendship.

2026.08.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 17: The Founding of Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera & The Epiphany of a Fierce General

Discover the dramatic founding legend of Kyoto's iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple on August 17, 798. Explore the tale of a fierce samurai general, Buddhist compassion, and the deep roots of Japanese culture in this comprehensive guide.

2026.08.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 16: Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi (Sending the Spirits) — A Beautiful Japanese Tradition of Guiding Ancestors Home

Discover the profound Japanese tradition of Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi on August 16. Learn about the history, Kyoto's Gozan no Okuribi, and how Japan honors ancestral spirits through sacred summer bonfires.

2026.08.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is August 15th? Japan’s Day for Mourning of War Dead and Praying for Peace, and the Story of the Peace Bell

Discover the deep historical and cultural significance of August 15 in Japan, the End of WWII Memorial Day. Explore the moving story of the UN Peace Bell and its spiritual connection to the Obon festival.

2026.08.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 14: Obon — Japan’s Summer of Returning Souls and Timeless Connections

Explore the profound Japanese summer tradition of Obon. Discover the history of welcoming ancestors, vibrant Bon Odori dances, and a touching cultural story.

2026.08.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 13th is Mukaebi: The Beginning of Obon, Japan’s Beautiful Summer Tradition

Discover the beautiful Japanese summer tradition of Obon and Mukaebi. Learn how families light welcoming fires to guide their ancestors' spirits home.

2026.08.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 12 is “Kimigayo Memorial Day”: The Secret of the National Anthem with the World’s Oldest and Shortest Lyrics

Discover the romantic secret behind Japan's national anthem, "Kimigayo." Learn how this 1,000-year-old anonymous poem from the Kokin Wakashu was originally an ancient love song for weddings.

2026.08.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series