“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 1st: The Hidden Heart of Japan in “Hassaku” and “Tanomi no Sekku”

Discover the fascinating Japanese traditions of August 1st: Hassaku and Tanomi no Sekku. Learn how ancient agricultural rituals of gratitude shaped samurai history, Tokugawa Ieyasu's Edo period, and modern Japanese gift-giving culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 31st is “Cool Japan Day”: Uncovering the Source of Japan’s Global Appeal

Discover why July 31 is celebrated as Cool Japan Day. We dive deep into the origins of Japan's global appeal, connecting modern anime, food, and high-tech culture to ancient traditions.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 30 is “Umeboshi Day”! Uncovering the History and Culture of Japan’s Superfood

Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Umeboshi on July 30, Umeboshi Day. Learn how this traditional Japanese pickled plum evolved from samurai medicine to a global superfood.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Secret of Japan’s “Mystery Meat”: Celebrating July 29th Nazo-niku Day and the Evolution of Cup Noodle Culture

Discover the fascinating story behind Japan's "Nazo-niku" (Mystery Meat) celebrated on July 29th. Explore instant ramen culture, internet slang, and delicious food innovation.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 28 is Naniwa Day! An In-Depth Look at Osaka, Japan’s Most Vibrant City

Discover the charm of Naniwa Day on July 28! Dive into the deep history, delicious street food, and vibrant comedy culture of Osaka, Japan's Nation's Kitchen.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 27th is Watermelon Day! A Deep Dive into Japanese Summer Traditions

Explore the fascinating culture of Japan's Watermelon Day on July 27th. From the beach game of Suikawari to the aesthetics of a Japanese summer, uncover it all!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 26 is “Ghost Day”: Exploring the Deep Connection Between Summer and Horror in Japan

Discover why July 26 is Ghost Day in Japan. Explore the chilling history of the Kabuki play Yotsuya Kaidan, the visual origins of Japanese Yurei, and the unique cultural tradition of using horror to beat the summer heat.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 25 is “Kakigori Day”! The Aesthetics of Summer Cooling Dating Back to the Heian Period

July 25 is Kakigori Day in Japan. Explore the 1,000-year history of Japanese shaved ice, from Heian period aristocratic luxury to modern culinary art.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 24: Yoimiya – The Spectacular Eve of Osaka’s 1,000-Year-Old Tenjin Matsuri

Discover the magic of Yoimiya, the eve of Osaka's 1,000-year-old Tenjin Matsuri on July 24th. Dive into the rich history, sacred Shinto rituals, and vibrant Japanese culture in this ultimate travel guide.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 23 is “Rice Riot Day”: The Historic Turning Point that Started in a Toyama Fishing Village

Discover the history of Japan's 1918 Rice Riots on July 23. Learn how local housewives changed history and explore the deep cultural significance of rice in Japan.