#JapanHistory

The Fish Seller Who Became a Samurai: A Hilarious Japanese Folktale of Luck and Wit

Discover the hilarious Japanese folktale of a carefree fish seller who accidentally became a Samurai through sheer luck and wit. Explore Edo-period culture and the power of "fake it till you make it" in this entertaining myth!

2026.03.21

Japanese Folktale Series

March 13 is “Shinsengumi Day”! The Bushido of “Makoto” that Ran Through Kyoto and Japanese Aesthetics

Discover the history and cultural impact of the Shinsengumi on March 13. Learn about the Bakumatsu period, the Bushido spirit of "Makoto," and why these tragic samurai are deeply loved in Japan today.

2026.03.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 11: The Great East Japan Earthquake, “Kizuna”, and Coexisting with Nature

Discover the profound historical and cultural impact of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake. Learn about Japan's deep gratitude for global support, the philosophy of impermanence, "Kizuna" (bonds), and disaster preparedness.

2026.03.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 9, 1958: The Day Honshu and Kyushu Were Connected Under the Sea

Discover the Kanmon Tunnel, opened on March 9, 1958. Learn about this rare walkable undersea tunnel connecting Honshu and Kyushu, its incredible 21-year engineering history, and the profound Japanese cultural events surrounding the Kanmon Straits.

2026.03.09

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Tragic Legend of “Shiratori no Seki” (The Swan’s Barrier)

Discover the Japanese folktale "Shiratori no Seki" (The Swan's Barrier). Read the summary, analysis, and its connection to Japanese culture, exploring themes of animism and human greed.

2026.03.08

Japanese Folktale Series

March 7: The Birth of Panasonic and the Indomitable Spirit of a Young Visionary

Discover the inspiring story of March 7, 1918, when Konosuke Matsushita founded Panasonic in a small Osaka house, shaping Japanese corporate culture forever.

2026.03.07

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 4 is “Yen Day”: The Birth of Japan’s Currency “YEN” and the Philosophy of “En” (Destiny)

Why are Japanese coins round? Discover the history of the Yen, established March 4, 1869, and the deep spiritual connection between "Yen" (money) and "En" (destiny). Uncover the magic of the 5-yen coin in this guide to Japanese culture!

2026.03.04

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 2: The Day the Blind Monk Ganjin Arrived in Heijo-kyo. What Was His Immeasurable Impact on Japanese Culture?

Discover the epic journey of Ganjin (Jianzhen), the blind Tang dynasty monk who arrived in Nara, Japan on March 2, 754. Explore his profound impact on Japanese Buddhism, medicine, and architecture, and learn how his never-give-up spirit shapes Japanese culture today.

2026.03.02

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 24th is “Moonlight Mask Day”: The Origin of Japanese Superheroes and a Prayer for Peace

Discover the fascinating history of Gekko Kamen (Moonlight Mask), Japan's first TV superhero who debuted on February 24, 1958. Explore the deep Buddhist philosophy of "forgiveness" behind his mask and its impact on Japanese culture.

2026.02.24

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Day is February 23? Unveiling the History and Culture Behind Japan’s “Emperor’s Birthday”

Explore the profound history and cultural significance of Japan's Emperor's Birthday on February 23. Learn about the Reiwa era, the Imperial Palace public greeting, and what makes this changing holiday so unique.

2026.02.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series