#JapanHistory

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 12, 1192: The Dawn of the Samurai Era and the Appointment of Minamoto no Yoritomo

Discover the history of July 12, 1192, when Minamoto no Yoritomo became Japan's first Seii Taishogun. Learn how the Kamakura Shogunate gave birth to the Samurai spirit and shaped Japanese culture forever.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 7th “Tanabata”: Japan’s Most Romantic Summer Night of Wishing Upon Stars

Discover the enchanting history and cultural significance of Tanabata, Japan's Star Festival on July 7. Learn the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, the meaning of Tanzaku, and make your own wish!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 29 is “Tsukudani Day”: Savoring Japan’s Preserved Food Culture and Edo History

Discover the history and cultural significance of Tsukudani, a traditional Japanese simmered dish born in the Edo period. Learn why June 29 is Tsukudani Day and how this savory treat perfectly pairs with white rice!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 28: The Day Japan Opened its Doors to the World (Trade Memorial Day)

Discover the history of June 28, 1859, when Japan ended over 200 years of isolation and opened its ports to global trade. Explore the cultural impact of Wakon Yosai (Japanese spirit, Western techniques) and the birth of modern Yokohama.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 27, 1994: The Matsumoto Sarin Incident — The Night That Changed Japanese Society and Media

Discover the history and cultural impact of the 1994 Matsumoto Sarin Incident. Learn how this tragic event on June 27 changed Japanese media, the presumption of innocence, and society.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 26 is “Thunder Memorial Day”: The Vengeful Spirit That Shook the Heian Capital

Discover the dramatic history behind Japan's Thunder Memorial Day on June 26. Learn how a terrifying vengeful spirit from the Heian period transformed into the beloved God of Learning.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Origins of Japan’s Soul Food: What is “Onigiri Day” on June 18th?

Discover the fascinating history of Onigiri Day on June 18th. Learn about Japan's 2,000-year-old oldest rice ball fossil and the spiritual, cultural significance of this beloved soul food.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 17 is Policeman’s Day: The History of Japan’s Safety and the “Koban” System

Discover the origins of Japan's safe streets on June 17th, Policeman's Day. Learn how the Meiji era birthed the world-famous Koban (police box) system and its cultural impact.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 16th is Wagashi Day: The “Kasho” Ritual and the Beauty of Japanese Tradition

Discover the rich history of Japan's Wagashi Day on June 16th. Learn about the ancient Kasho ritual from 848 AD, where traditional sweets were offered for health and plague dispellment. Explore the beauty of Japanese culture through sweets.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 15 is “Kome Hyappyo Day”: The Ultimate Choice Between Hunger and Creating a Million Sacks for Tomorrow

Discover the true story of Kome Hyappyo Day (June 15). Learn how a ruined Japanese samurai town in 1870 chose to invest in education instead of eating their last 100 sacks of rice, shaping the future of modern Japan.