“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 12, 1948: The Day Osamu Dazai Completed “No Longer Human”

Discover the history and cultural impact of May 12, 1948, the day Osamu Dazai completed "No Longer Human." Explore the Japanese concepts of Honne and Tatemae through this literary masterpiece.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

A Dance of Fire Across 1,300 Years: May 11th “Nagaragawa Ukai Biraki” and Japanese Coexistence with Nature

Discover the Nagaragawa Ukai (cormorant fishing) opening on May 11. Explore the 1300-year-old Japanese tradition, the deep bond between master and bird, and Japan's coexistence with nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Mother’s Day in Japan: The History Behind Red Carnations and the Culture of “Oyakoukou”

Discover how Japan celebrates Mother's Day. Explore the surprising history, the tradition of red carnations, and the deep cultural concept of "Oyakoukou" (filial piety) in modern Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 9th is Ice Cream Day in Japan: The History and Unique Evolution of Japanese Ice Cream

Discover why May 9th is Ice Cream Day in Japan. Explore the history from 1869's "Aisu Kurin" to the unique evolution of Matcha and Mochi ice creams, revealing the deep connection to Japanese seasonal culture and craftsmanship.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 8, 1615: The Fall of the Toyotomi Clan & The Turning Point of the Samurai Era

Discover the epic conclusion of the Siege of Osaka on May 8, 1615. Explore how the fall of the Toyotomi clan marked the end of the samurai wars and deeply shaped modern Japanese culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 7: The Soul of Kyushu, “Black Mont Blanc Day” and Japan’s Local Soul Food Culture

Discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of "Black Mont Blanc," the legendary soul food ice cream from Kyushu, Japan, celebrated on May 7th.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 6th is “Furikake Day”: The Story of the Little Magic on Japanese Dining Tables

Explore the fascinating history of Japanese Furikake on May 6th. Learn how a pharmacist's invention for calcium deficiency became a beautiful and tasty global bento box staple.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 5th: The Intersection of Rikka, Children’s Day, and Tango no Sekku in Japan

Explore the cultural significance of May 5th in Japan. Discover the traditions of Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi), Tango no Sekku, samurai armor, and beautiful Koinobori carp streamers.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 4th “Greenery Day”: Japan’s Special Holiday in Harmony with Nature

Discover the history and cultural significance of Japan's Greenery Day (Midori no Hi) on May 4th. Learn about Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and the Japanese deep connection with nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 3 is Licca-chan’s Birthday! Exploring the History and Charm of Japan’s National Doll and Kawaii Culture

Celebrate May 3, the birthday of Licca-chan! Discover the history of Japan's iconic fashion doll, her evolution since 1967, and how she shaped the global Kawaii culture.