#ExploreJapan

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 22 “Taisho” (Major Heat): The Zenith of Japanese Summer

Discover the traditions of Taisho (July 22), Japan's hottest solar term. Learn how ancient cooling techniques, unique culinary delights like Kakigori, and cultural wisdom help combat the fierce summer heat in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 20th is “Marine Day”: Understanding the Heart of Japan, an Island Nation

Explore the history and cultural significance of Japan's Marine Day (Umi no Hi) on July 20th. Discover how this unique island nation honors the ocean's blessings.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 17th is “Tokyo Day”: The Moment Japan’s History Shifted from Edo to Tokyo

Discover the fascinating history behind "Tokyo Day" on July 17th. Learn how Edo transformed into Tokyo in 1868, blending ancient Japanese traditions with modern innovation. Explore the deep cultural impact of this historic shift on modern Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 13th “Mukaebi”: The Beautiful Japanese Spiritual World of Guiding Ancestral Souls Home

Explore the profound Japanese tradition of Mukaebi on July 13th. Learn how families light welcoming fires during the Obon festival to connect the living with ancestral spirits, reflecting a beautiful view of life and death.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 22 is Bowling Day! From 1861 Nagasaki to a Unique Japanese Cultural Evolution

June 22 is Bowling Day in Japan. Explore the history of how a Western sport introduced in Nagasaki in 1861 evolved into a highly advanced, uniquely Japanese cultural phenomenon. Read more at kiri53.com.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 12 is Bazaar Memorial Day: The Meiji Era and the Birth of Japan’s New Culture of Mutual Aid

Discover the history of Japan's first charity bazaar held at the Rokumeikan on June 12, 1884. Learn how Western charity blended with Japanese culture in the Meiji period.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Nyubai: The Hidden Wisdom and Art of Japan’s Rainy Season

Discover "Nyubai," the traditional Japanese calendar milestone marking the start of the rainy season on June 11. Explore its deep history, agricultural roots, and how Japanese culture transforms rain into breathtaking art.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 16 is “Travel Day”: Understanding the Japanese Spirit of Travel through Matsuo Basho’s “Oku no Hosomichi”

Discover the origins of Japan's Travel Day on May 16. Learn about Haiku master Matsuo Basho's epic journey, Oku no Hosomichi, and the profound Japanese philosophy of travel.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 13 is “Dog’s Day” in Japan: Exploring the Bond Between Dogs and the Japanese People

Discover why May 13 is celebrated as Dog's Day in Japan. Explore the history, the cultural significance of native breeds like Shiba Inu, and the true meaning of loyalty.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 4th “Greenery Day”: Japan’s Special Holiday in Harmony with Nature

Discover the history and cultural significance of Japan's Greenery Day (Midori no Hi) on May 4th. Learn about Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) and the Japanese deep connection with nature.