#JapanHistory

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 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 11th is Cheese Day: How Japanese Culture Embraced a Western Flavor

Discover why November 11th is Cheese Day in Japan. Explore its ancient origins (700 AD) and how a Western food was adopted, adapted, and perfected by modern Japanese culinary culture.

2025.11.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

It Didn’t Start with a “Nagaya”: November 6th, the Day Privacy Was Born in Japan

Discover why November 6th is Apartment Day in Japan. Explore the history of the 1910 "Ueno Club," the first apartment building, and how it shaped modern Japanese living and the unique terms "apaato" vs "mansion."

2025.11.06

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 5th, Japan-Brazil Friendship Day: A 130-Year Bond and Cultural Fusion Forged Across the Globe

Discover why November 5th is Japan-Brazil Friendship Day. Explore the 130-year history, from the Kasato Maru migration to the vibrant cultural exchange in soccer, music (Bossa Nova), and food (Açaí) that binds these two nations.

2025.11.05

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 4th is “Good Embroidery Day”: The Thread of Japanese Beauty and History

Discover why November 4th is 'Good Embroidery Day' (Ii Shishu no Hi) in Japan. Explore the deep history of Japanese embroidery (Shishu), from ancient Buddhist relics and samurai armor to modern Sashiko and Sukajan jackets.

2025.11.04

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 3rd, “Bunka no Hi”: Japan’s Clear “Singularity Day” for Celebrating Peace and Culture

Discover Bunka no Hi (文化の日), Japan's Culture Day. Learn why this Nov 3 holiday, once Emperor Meiji's birthday, now celebrates the Constitution, peace, and free museums.

2025.11.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 The Hidden Treasure of Japanese Folktales: ‘Kashiki Chōja’ and the Power of Ingenuity

Discover the tale of Kashiki Chōja, a poor man who built a fortune from rice husks. We explore the Japanese philosophy of 'Mottainai,' ingenuity, and diligence rooted in this folktale, offering lessons for modern life and business to a global audience.

2025.11.01

Japanese Folktale Series

Japan’s Special Day: October 27, “Character and Print Culture Day,” Illuminating the Depth of Japanese Intellect and Spirit

Discover October 27, Japan's "Character and Print Culture Day." Explore how Kanji, Hiragana, The Tale of Genji, and the "Ma" aesthetic shaped Japan's high literacy and deep intellectual spirit. A must-read for book lovers and Japan enthusiasts.

2025.10.27

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Japanese Cinderella Story: “Hachikazuki Hime” Reveals Trials and True Beauty

Explore the Japanese folktale 'Hachikazuki Hime' (The Bowl-Wearing Princess). A deep dive for international readers into the true beauty hidden by the bowl, the trials of the stepmother, Kannon worship, and Japanese cultural values.

2025.10.22

Japanese Folktale Series