“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 16th: “Weather Map Day” in Japan – Why We Read the Sky

Discover why February 16 is celebrated as Weather Map Day in Japan. Explore the history from 1883 and how weather shapes Japanese culture and aesthetics.

2026.02.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Messenger of Spring Arrived with Tragedy: February 15th is “Spring’s First Gale Naming Day”

Discover the tragic history behind "Haru Ichiban," the strong spring gale in Japan. Learn why February 15th is the Naming Day and how Japanese culture embraces nature's duality.

2026.02.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Feb 14】Valentine’s Day in Japan: A Unique Festival of Love, Duty, and Chocolate

Discover why Japanese women give chocolates to men on February 14th. Explore the history, the difference between Honmei and Giri-choco, and the evolution of this unique cultural event in Japan.

2026.02.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 13: The Day Japanese People Got Their Names. The Truth Behind “Surname Establishment Day”

Why do Japanese people have over 100,000 surnames? Discover the story of February 13, 1875, when commoners were mandated to adopt family names, changing Japanese culture forever.

2026.02.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

A spicy aroma drifting from the kitchen. A golden sauce that stimulates the appetite. When you hear “curry,” which country’s cuisine do you imagine? India? Or perhaps the UK?

Discover the history of Bon Curry, launched on Feb 12, 1968. Learn how this "magic bag" from Japan revolutionized global food culture, from NASA tech to disaster prep.

2026.02.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Do you know which country has the longest continuing monarchy in the world?

Discover the meaning behind Feb 11, Japan's National Foundation Day. Explore the myths of Emperor Jimmu, the history of 660 BCE, and why this holiday is celebrated so quietly.

2026.02.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 10: The Day Japan Stood Still. How “Dragon Quest III” Changed History

Discover the history of February 10, 1988, when Dragon Quest III was released in Japan. Learn about the legendary queues, the social phenomenon, and how this JRPG changed Japanese culture forever.

2026.02.10

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

If you have any interest in Japan, you have undoubtedly heard the word “MANGA.” Perhaps you are already a devoted fan. But do you know the “origins” of why Japanese manga has evolved so uniquely and come to be loved around the world?

Discover why February 9th is "Manga Day" in Japan. Explore the legacy of Osamu Tezuka, the God of Manga, and how he revolutionized storytelling and anime history.

2026.02.09

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japan harbors a mysterious and gentle custom unlike any other in the world. If you were to visit a Japanese temple on February 8th, you might witness a surreal scene: people solemnly sticking sewing needles into blocks of tofu or konjac jelly.

On Feb 8th, Japan celebrates Hari-Kuyo, the Festival of Broken Needles. Discover why needles are stuck in tofu and learn about the Japanese spirit of animism and gratitude for tools.

2026.02.08

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 7th Nagano Day: The Miracle in the Silver World Where the World Became One

Discover why February 7th is Nagano Day. Explore the history of the 1998 Winter Olympics, the Japanese spirit of 'Wa' (Harmony), and the enduring legacy of peace and snow in Japan.

2026.02.07

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series