#HiddenJapan

Chapter 1: The Promise of the Deep Sea – Tako Hachi Choja (The Octopus Millionaire)

Discover the heartwarming Japanese folktale of "Tako Hachi Choja." A poor fisherman saves a giant octopus and receives a miraculous reward. Explore the cultural meaning of karma and animism in Japan.

2025.12.17

Japanese Folktale Series

🇯🇵Japanese Folktale Series: The Peony and the Mouse – A Fable of Wealth and Modesty

Category: Japanese Folktale SeriesIntroduction: Welcome to a Lesser-Known Japanese TaleHello everyone. As a programmer a...

2025.12.09

Japanese Folktale Series

“The Snow That Hides Footprints”: A Heartbreaking Tale of Beauty and Separation

Discover "Atokakushi no Yuki," a haunting Japanese folktale about a snow woman's sacrifice. Explore the cultural meaning behind the spring snow that hides tragedy.

2025.11.28

Japanese Folktale 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

[Japanese Folktale] Azukitogi: The Mystery of the Bean Washer

Discover the eerie tale of Azukitogi, the Japanese Yokai who washes beans by the river. Explore the story, cultural analysis, and the mystery behind the "Shoki Shoki" sound in this deep dive into Japanese folklore.

2025.11.20

Japanese Folktale Series

Winter in Japan is a season of breathtaking beauty, but also of ruthless severity. Buried deep within the snowy mountain villages lie stories of silence and sorrow. Today, I would like to introduce a Japanese folktale that symbolizes the deep “compassion” and “love” found in the Japanese soul: “The Tale of the Futon” (also known as “Futon Kabuse” or “The Poor Birds”). This story may differ from the happy-ending fairytales you are used to. However, within it lies the true essence of Japan.

Discover the heartbreaking Japanese folktale "The Tale of the Futon." A story of poverty, sibling love, and transformation into birds that reveals the deep spirituality and history of Japan.

2025.11.19

Japanese Folktale Series

November 10th is Elevator Day: The Technology and Culture That Expanded Japan Vertically

Nov 10th is Elevator Day in Japan. Discover how the 1890 debut of Japan's first elevator in Asakusa's Ryōunkaku shaped Japanese society, architecture, and unspoken rules.

2025.11.10

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Is Zashiki-warashi? Japan’s Mysterious Child Spirit of Good Fortune

Discover the legend of Zashiki-warashi, a childlike spirit from Japanese folklore said to bring luck and prosperity to households. Learn its origins, cultural meaning, and where to find it.

2025.09.25

Japanese Folktale Series

September 25: Fujinoki Kofun Memorial Day | Japan’s 1,400-Year-Old Time Capsule

Discover the story of Fujinoki Kofun, an untouched 6th-century tomb in Nara, Japan. Learn why September 25 is celebrated as Kofun Memorial Day and explore the cultural legacy of ancient Japan.

2025.09.25

“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