#ExploreJapan

April 9 is “Great Buddha Day”: Japanese History and Spirituality Told by the Colossus of Nara

Discover the epic history behind April 9, Japan's Great Buddha Day. Learn how the colossal Todai-ji statue in Nara unites 8th-century history, Japanese culture, and the spirit of resilience.

2026.04.09

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 8th is “Kanbutsue / Hanamatsuri”: The Mystical Celebration of Buddha’s Birth Illuminating the Japanese Spring

Discover Hanamatsuri (Kanbutsue) on April 8th in Japan. Explore the history of Buddha's birthday, the tradition of pouring Amacha (sweet tea) on the Birth Buddha, and how it blends with Japanese cherry blossom culture.

2026.04.08

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 23, 1962: The Red Artery Rushing Through Tokyo’s Underground—The History and Culture of the Marunouchi Line

Discover the history and cultural impact of the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, fully opened on March 23, 1962. Learn how Japan's subway shaped modern Tokyo's commuting culture and underground cities.

2026.03.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 4 is “Yen Day”: The Birth of Japan’s Currency “YEN” and the Philosophy of “En” (Destiny)

Why are Japanese coins round? Discover the history of the Yen, established March 4, 1869, and the deep spiritual connection between "Yen" (money) and "En" (destiny). Uncover the magic of the 5-yen coin in this guide to Japanese culture!

2026.03.04

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 3rd is “Hinamatsuri”: Celebrating Japan’s Beautiful Tradition and the Arrival of Spring

Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day) on March 3rd. Learn about Hina dolls, traditional foods, and the Japanese spirit.

2026.03.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Day is February 23? Unveiling the History and Culture Behind Japan’s “Emperor’s Birthday”

Explore the profound history and cultural significance of Japan's Emperor's Birthday on February 23. Learn about the Reiwa era, the Imperial Palace public greeting, and what makes this changing holiday so unique.

2026.02.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Introduction: The God Who Fell from the Japanese Sky

Discover the Japanese folktale "Ochita Kaminari" (The Fallen Thunder God). Explore why Japanese gods are humorous, why they steal belly buttons, and the meaning of "Kuwabara."

2026.01.28

Japanese Folktale Series

While January 1st is celebrated as “O-shogatsu” (Great New Year), January 15th holds its own special place in Japanese hearts as “Koshogatsu” or the “Little New Year.” This day marks a significant cultural boundary, concluding the festive New Year period. Today, we delve into the profound history and spiritual essence behind this tradition.

Explore the rich traditions of Koshogatsu (January 15th) in Japan. Learn about the spiritual meaning of red bean porridge (Azuki-gayu), the Dondoyaki fire festivals, and the cultural significance of "Women's New Year."

2026.01.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Autumn in Japan is not merely a change of seasons. It is a sacred time when we receive blessings from the earth, and gods and humans become one through “food.” Today is November 23rd. While most modern Japanese recognize this day as “Labor Thanksgiving Day” (Kinro Kansha no Hi) and enjoy a public holiday, the true form of this day is hidden within the most important and mysterious imperial ritual that has been protected for over 2,000 years.

Discover the deep spiritual meaning of November 23rd in Japan. Beyond Labor Thanksgiving Day lies "Niinamesai," an ancient ritual where the Emperor communes with gods through rice. Explore Japan's soul.

2025.11.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🚍September 20 is Bus Day in Japan: A Journey into Public Transportation History

Explore Bus Day in Japan, celebrated every September 20. Learn about its origin, cultural impact, and how buses shape everyday life across Japan—from Kyoto’s historic routes to modern tech-enabled travel.

2025.09.20

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series