#JapaneseCulture

【Jan 28】Hatsu Fudo: Why is this Japanese Buddha So Angry? The Paradox of Fire and Mercy

Discover the meaning of "Hatsu Fudo" on Jan 28th. Why is Fudo Myoo angry? Uncover the Japanese philosophy of "tough love," the Goma fire ritual, and how to experience this spiritual event in Japan.

2026.01.28

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japanese Folktale Series: The Aesthetics of “Existence” in “The Man Who Did Nothing”

Discover the deep meaning behind the Japanese folktale "The Man Who Did Nothing." Learn how Zen philosophy and the concept of "existence" shape Japanese culture.

2026.01.27

Japanese Folktale Series

January 26: “Cultural Property Fire Prevention Day” – A Vow to Protect Japan’s Beauty

Why does Japan hold massive fire drills at temples on January 26? Discover the tragedy of the Horyu-ji fire and the Japanese dedication to protecting wooden cultural heritage.

2026.01.26

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 25th: The Day Japan Froze – The Truth Behind “Japan’s Lowest Temperature Day”

Discover the history of January 25th in Japan, marking the record low of -41.0°C and the tragic Mt. Hakkoda incident. Explore how Japanese culture embraces winter through resilience and warmth.

2026.01.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Moon and the Golden Chain: A Suspense of Terror and Salvation

Discover the eerie Japanese folktale "The Moon and the Golden Chain." A story of Yamamba, suspense, and divine rescue. Explore the cultural meaning behind buckwheat flowers and moon worship.

2026.01.24

Japanese Folktale Series

Flip through a Japanese calendar, and you will find a special period marked from January 24th to the 30th. This is “National School Lunch Week.”

Discover the history of Japan's National School Lunch Week (Jan 24). Explore how "Kyushoku" evolved from post-war aid to a pillar of Japanese education and culture.

2026.01.24

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Japanese Folktale】The Yamabushi and the Baby Tanuki: A Battle of Wits

Discover the humorous and spiritual Japanese folktale of "The Yamabushi and the Baby Tanuki." Explore the cultural meaning of mountain ascetics, shapeshifting Tanuki, and the lesson of humility in nature.

2026.01.23

Japanese Folktale Series

“Charara, Charara, Charararara…” The Day a Melody Changed Japanese Dining Tables Forever

Discover the history of Japan's longest-running cooking show, "Kewpie 3-Minute Cooking," starting Jan 21, 1963. Explore how this iconic 3-minute program changed Japanese food culture, popularized mayonnaise, and defined home cooking.

2026.01.21

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Golden Camellia of Tamaya: A Legend of Nature’s Verdict

Discover the Japanese folktale "Tamaya no Tsubaki" from Niigata. A story of a merchant who buried his gold, only to have nature reveal his secret. Explore the cultural meaning of the Camellia and Animism.

2026.01.20

Japanese Folktale Series

【January 20】Daikan (Major Cold): The Day Japan Loves and Utilizes the Cold

Discover "Daikan" (Jan 20), Japan's Major Cold solar term. Explore why Japanese culture embraces the freezing cold for brewing the best Sake (Kan-jikomi), spiritual training (Kan-geiko), and lucky foods like golden eggs.

2026.01.20

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series