“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 2 is “Hangesho”: The Beautiful Japanese Seasonal Milestone of Eating Octopus to Pray for a Good Harvest

Discover Hangesho on July 2, a unique Japanese micro-season. Learn why Japanese people eat octopus to celebrate the end of rice planting and pray for good harvests.

2026.07.02

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 1st, Japan’s Summer Begins with the “Azuki Bar”: The Story of the World’s Hardest Ice Pop and a Sacred Bean

Explore the cultural significance of July 1st in Japan through the legendary Imuraya Azuki Bar. Discover why the world's hardest ice pop is a sacred and delicious summer tradition.

2026.07.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 30th: Nagoshi no Oharae – Japan’s Summer Purification Rite

Learn about Nagoshi no Oharae, Japan's traditional summer purification ritual held on June 30th. Discover the meaning behind Chinowa Kuguri, Katashiro paper dolls, and how the Japanese reset their spirit for the second half of the year.

2026.06.30

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 29 is “Tsukudani Day”: Savoring Japan’s Preserved Food Culture and Edo History

Discover the history and cultural significance of Tsukudani, a traditional Japanese simmered dish born in the Edo period. Learn why June 29 is Tsukudani Day and how this savory treat perfectly pairs with white rice!

2026.06.29

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 28: The Day Japan Opened its Doors to the World (Trade Memorial Day)

Discover the history of June 28, 1859, when Japan ended over 200 years of isolation and opened its ports to global trade. Explore the cultural impact of Wakon Yosai (Japanese spirit, Western techniques) and the birth of modern Yokohama.

2026.06.28

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 27, 1994: The Matsumoto Sarin Incident — The Night That Changed Japanese Society and Media

Discover the history and cultural impact of the 1994 Matsumoto Sarin Incident. Learn how this tragic event on June 27 changed Japanese media, the presumption of innocence, and society.

2026.06.27

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 26 is “Thunder Memorial Day”: The Vengeful Spirit That Shook the Heian Capital

Discover the dramatic history behind Japan's Thunder Memorial Day on June 26. Learn how a terrifying vengeful spirit from the Heian period transformed into the beloved God of Learning.

2026.06.26

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 25: Preparing for “Chinowa Kuguri” and the Japanese Spirit of Purification

Discover the ancient Japanese tradition of Chinowa Kuguri and Nagoshi no Harae. Learn how Shinto shrines prepare for this summer purification ritual and the deep cultural significance of spiritual cleansing in Japan.

2026.06.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 24: “Omitasai” – The History and Essence of Japan’s Great Rice Planting Festival

Explore the history and cultural significance of Omitasai, one of Japan's top three rice planting festivals held every June 24th at Izawanomiya. Discover the deep roots of Shinto and Japanese traditions.

2026.06.24

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 23, 1534: The Birth of Oda Nobunaga, The Warlord Who Reshaped Japan

Discover the dramatic life and legacy of Oda Nobunaga, born on June 23, 1534. Learn how this visionary samurai reshaped Japanese history, culture, and warfare.

2026.06.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series