#JapanHistory

May 18, 1869: The End of the Hakodate War. The Fall of the Samurai and the Dawn of Modern Japan

Discover the dramatic end of the Boshin War at Hakodate's Goryokaku on May 18, 1869. Explore the contrasting fates of samurai heroes and the dawn of modern Japan.

2026.05.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 17 is Ochazuke Day: The Hidden History and Zen Spirit of Japan’s Soul Food

Learn about Ochazuke Day on May 17th. Discover the history of Nagatani Soshichiro, the invention of Sencha, and why this simple dish of green tea over rice is the ultimate Japanese soul food.

2026.05.17

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The King of Comedy and the Assassination Plot: The Light and Shadow of Charlie Chaplin’s First Visit to Japan on May 13, 1932

On May 13, 1932, Charlie Chaplin visited Japan. Discover the shocking true story of how watching Sumo saved his life during the May 15 Incident, and explore his deep love for Japanese culture.

2026.05.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 13 is “Dog’s Day” in Japan: Exploring the Bond Between Dogs and the Japanese People

Discover why May 13 is celebrated as Dog's Day in Japan. Explore the history, the cultural significance of native breeds like Shiba Inu, and the true meaning of loyalty.

2026.05.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 12, 1948: The Day Osamu Dazai Completed “No Longer Human”

Discover the history and cultural impact of May 12, 1948, the day Osamu Dazai completed "No Longer Human." Explore the Japanese concepts of Honne and Tatemae through this literary masterpiece.

2026.05.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Mother’s Day in Japan: The History Behind Red Carnations and the Culture of “Oyakoukou”

Discover how Japan celebrates Mother's Day. Explore the surprising history, the tradition of red carnations, and the deep cultural concept of "Oyakoukou" (filial piety) in modern Japan.

2026.05.10

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Oni and the Little Girl: A Legend of Miraculous Courage and Wisdom

Discover the enchanting Japanese folktale of "The Oni and the Little Girl." Learn how a brave girl used a holly tree to defeat a demon and explore its deep cultural ties to Japanese traditions.

2026.05.09

Japanese Folktale Series

May 5th: The Intersection of Rikka, Children’s Day, and Tango no Sekku in Japan

Explore the cultural significance of May 5th in Japan. Discover the traditions of Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi), Tango no Sekku, samurai armor, and beautiful Koinobori carp streamers.

2026.05.05

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 1st: The Dawn of the Reiwa Era and Japan’s “Beautiful Harmony”

Discover the profound historical and cultural significance of May 1st in Japan. Learn about the dawn of the Reiwa era, Emperor Naruhito's ascension, and how the ancient Manyoshu poetry anthology inspired Japan's concept of 'Beautiful Harmony'.

2026.05.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is April 29th? Decoding Japan’s Economic Miracle and Cultural Evolution Through “Showa Day”

Explore the fascinating history behind April 29th in Japan, known today as Showa Day. Discover how this national holiday evolved and its deep connection to the Japanese economic miracle and culture.

2026.04.29

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series