#JapanCulture

The Water Seed: A Miracle Blooming in the Parched Earth

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Water Seed" (Mizu no Tane). A story about a mysterious monk, Kobo Daishi, and how a single act of kindness brought water to a drought-stricken village. Explore the cultural significance of water in Japan.

2025.11.26

Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Ushikata to Yamanba: A Battle of Wits in the Silent Mountains

Discover the chilling Japanese folktale "Ushikata to Yamanba." A cattleman faces a mountain witch in a battle of wits. Explore the cultural meaning of the Mackerel Road and Yokai legends.

2025.11.25

Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folklore】Funa Yurei: The Boat Spirits Seeking a Ladle

Discover the chilling tale of Funa Yurei, Japanese ship ghosts that sink boats with a ladle. Learn the folklore, cultural meaning, and how to survive this maritime horror.

2025.11.24

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

There is a story passed down in Japan, often told on rainy nights or during the humid heat of summer. It is not merely a ghost story intended to scare, but a tale of “love” that persists even after death. Today, I will introduce the legendary folktale known across Japan, particularly in Kyoto, as “The Child-Rearing Ghost” (Kosodate Yurei). While the word “ghost” may evoke fear, by the time you finish reading this story, you will likely feel a distinct warmth in your heart.

Discover the legend of the Child-Rearing Ghost (Kosodate Yurei). A poignant Japanese folktale from Kyoto about a mother's love that defied death to save her baby. Read the full story and cultural analysis here.

2025.11.22

Japanese Folktale 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

November 20: The Day Japanese Hospitality Met the West. What is “Hotel Day”?

Discover why November 20 is celebrated as Hotel Day in Japan. Explore the history of the Imperial Hotel, the blend of Western and Japanese hospitality, and how it changed travel culture in Japan.

2025.11.20

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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

[Japanese Folktale] The Mystery of the Char: A Desperate Cry from the River Guardian

Discover the haunting Japanese folktale "Iwana no Kai" (The Mystery of the Char). A story about a giant fish, a mysterious monk, and the consequences of greed in the deep mountains of Japan. Explore the cultural meaning behind this legend.

2025.11.17

Japanese Folktale Series

November 17th, “Shogi Day”: The Japanese Spirit and a Unique Global Rule on the Board

Nov 17 is Shogi Day. Discover why Japanese chess is unique. The "Mochigoma" (captured pieces) rule changes everything. Learn its connection to Bushido, Tokugawa Shoguns, and the modern AI battles.

2025.11.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series