Japanese Folktale Series

The Golden Camellia of Tamaya: A Legend of Nature’s Verdict

Discover the Japanese folktale "Tamaya no Tsubaki" from Niigata. A story of a merchant who buried his gold, only to have nature reveal his secret. Explore the cultural meaning of the Camellia and Animism.
2026.01.20
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【January 20】Daikan (Major Cold): The Day Japan Loves and Utilizes the Cold

Discover "Daikan" (Jan 20), Japan's Major Cold solar term. Explore why Japanese culture embraces the freezing cold for brewing the best Sake (Kan-jikomi), spiritual training (Kan-geiko), and lucky foods like golden eggs.
2026.01.20
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Deep within the mountains of Japan, countless legends remain about tools possessing mysterious powers. The story I will introduce today is not just about a magical tool, but a tale of a “Masu” (measuring box) that reflects the true nature of the human heart. This story speaks to us with humor and a bit of irony about the meaning of wealth and what lies at the end of greed.

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Mysterious Masu." A story of an honest man, a greedy neighbor, and a magic wooden box that multiplies whatever is inside. Explore the cultural meaning of the Masu cup.
2026.01.19
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is January 19th? “Nodojiman Day” and the Origins of Japan’s Karaoke Culture

Discover the significance of January 19th, "Nodojiman Day" in Japan. Explore how a 1946 radio show birthed the nation's karaoke culture and community spirit.
2026.01.19
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Introduction: A Story of Souls Residing in Dolls

Discover the Japanese folktale "Hina no Yobayashi." A moving story about Hina dolls coming to life to play music for their poor owners. Explore the culture of Tsukumogami and Hina Matsuri.
2026.01.18
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 18: The Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) — A Tragedy of Kimono and the Rebirth of Edo

Discover the haunting legend of the Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) on Jan 18, 1657. A cursed kimono that destroyed Edo and reshaped modern Tokyo's history.
2026.01.18
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 17: The Day Silence Was Broken – The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and the “First Year of Volunteering”

On January 17, 1995, Kobe was struck by a devastating earthquake. Discover how this tragedy transformed Japan's disaster preparedness and sparked the "First Year of Volunteering," redefining the concept of Kizuna (bonds).
2026.01.17
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

Beyond the Forbidden Door in the Misty Mountains: “Uguisu Chōja”

Dive into the haunting Japanese folktale of "Uguisu Chōja." Discover the story of a forbidden mansion, the Nightingale spirit, and what it reveals about Japanese culture and the "Prohibition of Looking."
2026.01.16
Japanese Folktale Series
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Even the King of Hell Needs a Break: The Hidden Truth of January 16th, “Enma Mairi”

Discover the hidden meaning of January 16th in Japan: Enma Saijitsu. Why does the King of Hell take a break? Explore the unique customs of Enma Mairi and the deep cultural philosophy of forgiveness.
2026.01.16
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Yamabushi Ishi: The Tale of the Silent Stone and the Price of Arrogance

Discover the haunting Japanese folktale of Yamabushi Ishi. A story of a monk turned to stone, exploring Shugendo, nature worship, and the price of arrogance.
2026.01.15
Japanese Folktale Series
次のページ