#japanesetradition

December 31st: Omisoka – A Ritual of Silence and Rebirth

Discover the spiritual depth of Omisoka (Dec 31) in Japan. From the 108 bells (Joya no Kane) to Toshikoshi Soba, explore why Japanese New Year's Eve is a ritual of resetting and purification, not just a party.

2025.12.31

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japanese Folktale: “The Mouse Sutra” (Nezumi Kyo) – A Miracle Born of Pure Faith

Discover the hilarious and profound Japanese folktale "The Mouse Sutra." Learn how a fake sutra and an old woman's pure faith scared away a thief. A story about Kotodama and Japanese culture.

2025.12.18

Japanese Folktale Series

December 13th: The Essence of Japan’s Traditional ‘Shogatsu Koto Hajime’ and ‘Osoji’

Explore the profound cultural significance of December 13th in Japan, known as 'Shogatsu Koto Hajime' (start of New Year prep) and 'Osoji' (major cleaning). Discover the history of 'Susuharai,' the concept of 'Kegare' (impurity), and how the Japanese prepare their homes and minds to welcome the Toshigami-sama (New Year's God). A deep dive into tradition, hygiene, and the spirit of 'Reset.'

2025.12.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🎌【Deep Dive】December 12th: Japan’s “Kanji Day” and “The Kanji of the Year” – A Mirror Reflecting the Era

Dive deep into Japan's "Kanji Day" on Dec 12th and the annual "Kanji of the Year" announcement at Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Discover how this single character reflects Japan's culture, history, and collective emotion. A must-read for Japan enthusiasts.

2025.12.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

📅 Japan’s “Calendar Day” (December 3rd): The Intersection of Culture and Technology in Marking Time

Discover the history of Japan's Calendar Day (December 3rd), commemorating the 1872 switch from the Lunisolar to the Gregorian calendar. Learn how this reform reflects Japan's unique culture of combining ancient tradition (Rokuyō, seasonal terms) with modern technology and a love for the four seasons.

2025.12.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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

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 Beggar’s Tenugui: A Tale of Selfless Kindness, Miracles, and the Ruin of Greed

Explore "Kojiki no Kureta Tenugui," a deep Japanese folktale. Discover how selfless kindness is rewarded with miracles, while greed leads to ruin. A powerful lesson in Japanese culture, virtue, and Omotenashi.

2025.11.08

Japanese Folktale Series

Ritto (立冬): The Calendar’s Signal for Winter and Japan’s Delicate Art of Seasonal Preparation

Ritto, around Nov 7, signals the start of winter on the Japanese calendar. It's not just a cold day; it's a cue to prepare. Discover the culture of kotatsu, nabe, and Shichi-Go-San.

2025.11.07

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Mysterious Fish of the Lake: A Japanese Folktale on “Knowing Enough” and Respect for Nature

Discover the full story of "The Mysterious Fish of the Lake," a Japanese folktale. We explore its deep lessons on animism, coexisting with nature, and the Japanese cultural virtue of "knowing enough."

2025.11.06

Japanese Folktale Series