“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is March 14th? The Deep History of “White Day,” a Uniquely Japanese Culture

Discover the unique Japanese tradition of White Day on March 14. Learn the history, the hidden meanings of sweets like marshmallows and macarons, and the deep cultural significance of "Ogaeshi" (returning favors). / 3月14日の「ホワイトデー」の歴史とお菓子に隠された意味、日本特有の「お返し」や「義理」の文化を詳しく解説します。
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 13 is “Shinsengumi Day”! The Bushido of “Makoto” that Ran Through Kyoto and Japanese Aesthetics

Discover the history and cultural impact of the Shinsengumi on March 13. Learn about the Bakumatsu period, the Bushido spirit of "Makoto," and why these tragic samurai are deeply loved in Japan today.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is March 12th? The Epic History and Dance of Flames at Todaiji Temple’s “Omizutori”

Discover the epic history and cultural significance of Todaiji Temple's Omizutori on March 12. Learn how giant torches and sacred water signify the arrival of spring in Japan in this uninterrupted 1,250-year-old Buddhist ritual.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 11: The Great East Japan Earthquake, “Kizuna”, and Coexisting with Nature

Discover the profound historical and cultural impact of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake. Learn about Japan's deep gratitude for global support, the philosophy of impermanence, "Kizuna" (bonds), and disaster preparedness.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 10 is “Takenoko no Sato Day”: Unveiling the Sweet, Fierce “National Chocolate” Dividing Japan

Discover March 10th, "Takenoko no Sato Day" in Japan. Learn about the iconic Meiji chocolate snack, the legendary "Kinoko vs. Takenoko War," and the deep cultural meaning behind Japanese sweets.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 9, 1958: The Day Honshu and Kyushu Were Connected Under the Sea

Discover the Kanmon Tunnel, opened on March 9, 1958. Learn about this rare walkable undersea tunnel connecting Honshu and Kyushu, its incredible 21-year engineering history, and the profound Japanese cultural events surrounding the Kanmon Straits.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 8, 1984: The Release of “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind” that Changed Anime History

Discover the profound Japanese cultural roots and animistic beliefs behind Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece, "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind," released on March 8, 1984.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 7: The Birth of Panasonic and the Indomitable Spirit of a Young Visionary

Discover the inspiring story of March 7, 1918, when Konosuke Matsushita founded Panasonic in a small Osaka house, shaping Japanese corporate culture forever.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 6th is “Round-the-World Trip Day”: How Air Travel Transformed Japanese History and Culture

Discover why March 6th is celebrated as Round-the-World Trip Day in Japan. Explore the history of Japan Airlines' 1967 global route and its profound connection to traditional Japanese travel culture and the spirit of "Ichigo Ichie".
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japan’s Spring Awakening: Finding Harmony with Nature on “Keichitsu” (March 5)

Discover "Keichitsu" on March 5, the day hibernating creatures awaken in Japan. Explore the 24 solar terms, spring food, and Japan's deep bond with nature.