#HeianPeriod

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Memory of June 1st: The Heian Period Ritual of “Hagatame” and Prayers for Longevity

Discover the fascinating history of June 1st in Japan. Learn about the Heian period ritual of "Hagatame," where aristocrats ate hard foods like mochi to pray for health and longevity, a tradition still echoing in modern Japanese culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 29: The Presentation of the Kokin Wakashu and the Dawn of Japanese Aesthetics

Discover the profound impact of the Kokin Wakashu, Japan's first imperial poetry anthology presented on May 29, 905. Learn how it shaped Japanese aesthetics, anime, and culture.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 27 is “Hyakunin Isshu Day”: The Crystallization of Japanese Culture Connecting Heian Elegance with Modern Enthusiasm

Explore the rich history of Hyakunin Isshu on May 27. Dive into the elegant world of Japanese Waka poetry, competitive Karuta, and the Heian period's timeless romance.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 19: The Fall of the Nogata Meteorite, the World’s Oldest Witnessed Meteorite

Discover the fascinating story of the Nogata Meteorite, which fell in Japan on May 19, 861. Uncover how this celestial event shaped Japanese Shinto beliefs and remains the world's oldest witnessed meteorite fall.
Japanese Folktale Series

👹 The Rashomon Demon: A Tale of Life, Death, and Ego in Japanese Culture

Explore the terrifying and profound Japanese folktale of the Rashomon Demon and the samurai Watanabe no Tsuna. This in-depth analysis connects the story to Japanese culture, Animism, Bushido, and the Heian period's aesthetics of transience (Mono no Aware). Discover the true monster lurking within humanity.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 13th. Did you know that this day is celebrated in Japan as “Urushi no Hi,” or “Lacquer Day”?

November 13th is 'Urushi Day' (Lacquer Day) in Japan. Discover the deep history, from a Heian-era prince to 9,000-year-old artifacts. We explore why this "poisonous" sap is Japan's most treasured material and its link to the spirit of monozukuri.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Is Chōyō no Sekku? Japan’s Chrysanthemum Festival and Its Timeless Elegance

Discover the meaning of Chōyō no Sekku, Japan’s Chrysanthemum Festival held on September 9. Learn its history, seasonal customs, and modern ways to celebrate longevity and beauty.
Japanese Folktale Series

Kaguya-hime | Japanese Folktale Series Vol.3

Discover the enchanting story of Kaguya-hime, Japan’s legendary moon princess. This immersive folktale explores love, impermanence, and cultural symbolism through a beautifully retold narrative for global readers.