#japanesetradition

September 5th is “Mitarashi Dango Day”: The Tale of Prayer Hidden in Kyoto

September 5th is Mitarashi Dango Day. Uncover the deep historical roots, the 5-bubble legend, and the captivating story behind this beloved traditional Japanese sweet born at Kyoto's Shimogamo Shrine.

2026.09.05

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Feared Wind Gods and Japanese Wisdom: The Truth Behind September 1st, “Nihyakutoka”

Discover the fascinating history of September 1st, Nihyakutoka in Japan. Learn how ancient Japanese farmers appeased the wind gods and coexisted with typhoons.

2026.09.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Absolute Nature of Age Dictated by Language: “Kyodai” and “Shimai”

Discover the deep-rooted hierarchy in Japanese culture. Learn how the language of siblings, Senpai-Kohai relationships, and the Nenko-joretsu seniority system shape modern Japan.

2026.08.16

Japanese Culture

August 16: Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi (Sending the Spirits) — A Beautiful Japanese Tradition of Guiding Ancestors Home

Discover the profound Japanese tradition of Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi on August 16. Learn about the history, Kyoto's Gozan no Okuribi, and how Japan honors ancestral spirits through sacred summer bonfires.

2026.08.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 14: Obon — Japan’s Summer of Returning Souls and Timeless Connections

Explore the profound Japanese summer tradition of Obon. Discover the history of welcoming ancestors, vibrant Bon Odori dances, and a touching cultural story.

2026.08.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Hidden Soul of Japanese Dining: Personal Tableware and Disposable Chopsticks for Guests

Discover the unique Japanese tableware culture. Learn why Japanese families strictly use personal chopsticks and bowls, and why serving guests with disposable chopsticks is the ultimate sign of purity and respect.

2026.08.08

Japanese Culture

Understanding the Japanese View of Life and Death Through Funerals: Reincarnation and the Path to Becoming a Kami

Discover the profound Japanese view of life and death through funeral traditions. Learn how Buddhist reincarnation and Shinto's path to becoming a Kami shape Japan's unique culture and spirituality.

2026.08.02

Japanese Culture

August 1st: The Hidden Heart of Japan in “Hassaku” and “Tanomi no Sekku”

Discover the fascinating Japanese traditions of August 1st: Hassaku and Tanomi no Sekku. Learn how ancient agricultural rituals of gratitude shaped samurai history, Tokugawa Ieyasu's Edo period, and modern Japanese gift-giving culture.

2026.08.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 22 “Taisho” (Major Heat): The Zenith of Japanese Summer

Discover the traditions of Taisho (July 22), Japan's hottest solar term. Learn how ancient cooling techniques, unique culinary delights like Kakigori, and cultural wisdom help combat the fierce summer heat in Japan.

2026.07.22

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 17th is “Tokyo Day”: The Moment Japan’s History Shifted from Edo to Tokyo

Discover the fascinating history behind "Tokyo Day" on July 17th. Learn how Edo transformed into Tokyo in 1868, blending ancient Japanese traditions with modern innovation. Explore the deep cultural impact of this historic shift on modern Japan.

2026.07.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series