#JapaneseCulture

The Quiet Approach of Winter: Exploring “Shōsetsu” (Small Snow)

November 22nd is "Shōsetsu" in the Japanese calendar. Explore the meaning of Small Snow, the tradition of dried foods like Hoshigaki, and the cultural shift into winter in Japan.

2025.11.22

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Walking along the ancient roads of Japan, you may occasionally come across weathered stone monuments or old, decaying shrines. These are not merely ruins; they are fragments of memories where people once confronted “something beyond human understanding.”

Discover the thrilling Japanese folktale of "Sarugami Taiji" (Shippeitaro). A story of a brave dog, a terrifying monkey god, and the legend of human sacrifice in ancient Japan. Read the full analysis.

2025.11.21

Japanese Folktale Series

In the mornings in Japan, you often see a vibrant green figure on the school commute routes. This isn’t just a uniform; it is a symbol of Japan’s “myth of safety” and the strength of its local communities. November 19th is known in Japan as “Green Auntie Day” (Midori no Obasan no Hi). Why green? Why “Auntie”? delving into this anniversary reveals the post-war history of Japan and its unique spirituality dedicated to protecting children.

Discover the history of "Green Auntie Day" on November 19. Learn how these school crossing guards symbolize Japan's community spirit, safety culture, and the "Traffic War" era. A deep dive into Japanese daily life.

2025.11.19

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 16th, Kindergarten Anniversary: A Symbol of Japan’s Modernization and the First Step in Learning “Group Harmony”

Discover the history of Japan's first kindergarten, established on November 16, 1876. Explore how early childhood education shapes Japanese culture, from group harmony (Wa) to "Kawaii" bento boxes.

2025.11.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Outwitting a Monster with a Single Word: The Japanese Trickster Tale of “Tanokyu”

Discover "Tanokyu," a Japanese folktale about an actor who outwits a giant serpent by pretending to be a Tanuki (raccoon dog). Explore its meaning, the role of the Tanuki in Japanese culture, and the art of the "trickster tale."

2025.11.15

Japanese Folktale Series

November 15 “Shichi-Go-San” — Japan’s Beautiful Rite of Passage Celebrated at Winter’s Approach

Explore Shichi-Go-San (November 15), Japan's beautiful rite of passage celebrating children's growth (ages 3, 5, 7), and its connection to 'Ritto' (the start of winter).

2025.11.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Mud-Stained Guardians: What “Taue Jizo” Reveals About Japanese Labor and Faith

Discover the Japanese folktale "Taue Jizo." Read the full story and a deep analysis of why Jizo statues helped with rice planting, exploring Japan's sacred view of labor, rice culture, and deep-rooted faith.

2025.11.14

Japanese Folktale Series

November 14th “Women’s Lib Day”: The Anniversary of the Revolt Against Japan’s “Good Wife, Wise Mother”

Learn about November 14th in Japan, "Women's Lib Day." Discover the 1970 demonstration that challenged the "Good Wife, Wise Mother" ideal and sparked Japan's second-wave feminism.

2025.11.14

“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.

2025.11.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Tragic Tale of Sadaroku and Shiro: A Loyal Dog’s Doomed Race Against Time

Discover the heartbreaking Japanese legend of "Sadaroku and Shiro." A tale of a Matagi hunter, a fatal mistake, and a loyal Akita dog's desperate race against time. Explore the deep cultural themes of loyalty, honor, and tragedy.

2025.11.12

Japanese Folktale Series