#japanesetradition

“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.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 13th “Mukaebi”: The Beautiful Japanese Spiritual World of Guiding Ancestral Souls Home

Explore the profound Japanese tradition of Mukaebi on July 13th. Learn how families light welcoming fires during the Obon festival to connect the living with ancestral spirits, reflecting a beautiful view of life and death.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 6th “Shosho”: The Dawn of True Summer and Japan’s Beautiful Culture of Coolness

Explore the profound meaning of 'Shosho' (Lesser Heat) in the traditional Japanese calendar. Learn about summer greetings, seasonal foods, and the beautiful traditional ways Japanese people survive the intense summer heat.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 30th: Nagoshi no Oharae – Japan’s Summer Purification Rite

Learn about Nagoshi no Oharae, Japan's traditional summer purification ritual held on June 30th. Discover the meaning behind Chinowa Kuguri, Katashiro paper dolls, and how the Japanese reset their spirit for the second half of the year.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 24th is “Japan Derby Memorial Day”: Exploring Japanese History and Culture Through Horse Racing

Discover the history of Japan Derby Memorial Day (April 24). Explore how Japanese horse racing evolved from ancient Shinto rituals to a modern pop culture phenomenon.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 22 is “Cleaning Day”: The History and Spirituality Behind Japan’s Beautiful Streets

Discover why April 22 is Cleaning Day in Japan. Explore the deep cultural and spiritual roots of Japanese cleanliness, from Zen Buddhism to school traditions.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japan’s Spring Awakening: Finding Harmony with Nature on “Keichitsu” (March 5)

Discover "Keichitsu" on March 5, the day hibernating creatures awaken in Japan. Explore the 24 solar terms, spring food, and Japan's deep bond with nature.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Feb 14】Valentine’s Day in Japan: A Unique Festival of Love, Duty, and Chocolate

Discover why Japanese women give chocolates to men on February 14th. Explore the history, the difference between Honmei and Giri-choco, and the evolution of this unique cultural event in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

While January 1st is celebrated as “O-shogatsu” (Great New Year), January 15th holds its own special place in Japanese hearts as “Koshogatsu” or the “Little New Year.” This day marks a significant cultural boundary, concluding the festive New Year period. Today, we delve into the profound history and spiritual essence behind this tradition.

Explore the rich traditions of Koshogatsu (January 15th) in Japan. Learn about the spiritual meaning of red bean porridge (Azuki-gayu), the Dondoyaki fire festivals, and the cultural significance of "Women's New Year."
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 12: “Coming of Age Day” (Seijin no Hi) — Japan’s Colorful Rite of Passage

Discover the beauty and complexity of Japan's Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi). Explore the history of samurai rituals, the vibrant Furisode kimonos, and how the shift from age 20 to 18 impacts this modern rite of passage.