Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese folktales are not just about fighting demons or magical adventures. Many stories, much like “Rakugo” (traditional comic storytelling), sharply depict human psychology with irony and humor. Today, I would like to introduce a story called “Sennin Mikan” (The Hermit’s Tangerine). This implies a tale about the universal desire to “get rich quick” without working, and the unexpected consequences that follow.

Discover the Japanese folktale "Sennin Mikan." A story of a greedy man, a magical tangerine, and a lesson on patience. What happens when you eat the gold?
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 3rd: Between Silence and Bustle. Decoding the Finale of “San-ga-nichi”

Discover the cultural significance of January 3rd in Japan, the final day of San-ga-nichi. Learn about the Hakone Ekiden, Mikka Tororo, and the transition from sacred celebration back to daily life.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Miracle of New Year’s Eve: “The Fire of the Great Year (Ōtoshi no Hi)”

Discover the mystical Japanese folktale "Ōtoshi no Hi" (The Fire of the Great Year). Learn about Toshigami, New Year's Eve traditions, and the cultural lesson of changing destiny through wisdom.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 2nd: Divining the Year Through Dreams, Calligraphy, and Commerce

Discover the deep cultural significance of January 2nd in Japan. Explore the traditions of Hatsuyume (First Dream), Kakizome (Calligraphy), and Hatsuuri (Lucky Bags). A guide to Japanese New Year rituals.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Dawn of Silence and Rebirth: The True Meaning of Japan’s “Ganjitsu”

Discover the profound meaning of Ganjitsu (January 1st) in Japan. From Hatsumode to Osechi, explore how Japanese people celebrate the New Year with silence, rebirth, and tradition.
Japanese Folktale Series

Introduction: The Legend of Timekeeping Animals

Discover the legend behind the Japanese Zodiac (Juunishi). A tale of a great race, a cunning rat, a diligent ox, and why the cat is missing. Explore the cultural meaning behind the animals.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 31st: Omisoka – A Ritual of Silence and Rebirth

Discover the spiritual depth of Omisoka (Dec 31) in Japan. From the 108 bells (Joya no Kane) to Toshikoshi Soba, explore why Japanese New Year's Eve is a ritual of resetting and purification, not just a party.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Legend] Zashiki Warashi: The Innocent Spirit Bringing Fortune and Ruin

Discover the legend of Zashiki Warashi, the child spirit of Iwate that brings immense wealth and ruin. Explore the deep cultural meaning behind this famous Japanese Yokai and its connection to household prosperity.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 30th: Subway Anniversary (Chikatetsu Kinenbi)

Discover the history of Japan's first subway opening on December 30, 1927. Explore how the Tokyo Metro shaped Japanese culture, punctuality, and urban order in this detailed guide.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Toshigami-sama: The Story of the Visiting New Year God

Discover the Japanese folktale of Toshigami-sama, the New Year God. Learn why Japanese people decorate with Kadomatsu and the deep meaning behind Otoshidama and Kagami Mochi. A guide to Japanese spirituality.