#JapanTravel

Memory of June 1st: The Heian Period Ritual of “Hagatame” and Prayers for Longevity

Discover the fascinating history of June 1st in Japan. Learn about the Heian period ritual of "Hagatame," where aristocrats ate hard foods like mochi to pray for health and longevity, a tradition still echoing in modern Japanese culture.

2026.06.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Mystical Japanese Folktale “Mayohiga” (The Lost House)

Discover the enchanting Japanese folktale of Mayohiga (The Lost House). Explore the cultural significance of mountain spirits and the virtue of selflessness in Japan.

2026.05.31

Japanese Folktale Series

[May 30] The Soul of Japan Rising from the Ashes: The Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties

Discover the tragic history behind Japan's Law for the Protection of Cultural Properties. Explore the unique Japanese philosophy of preserving intangible heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and National Treasures.

2026.05.30

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 28th is “Fireworks Day”: Flowers of Prayer in the Night Sky and the Depths of Japanese Culture

Discover the profound history behind Japan's Fireworks Day on May 28. Learn how a 1733 memorial service on the Sumida River transformed into the spectacular Hanabi festivals deeply rooted in Japanese culture and the aesthetic of ephemeral beauty.

2026.05.28

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 25: The Birth of Japan’s First Dining Car and the Revolution of Train Travel

Discover the fascinating history of Japan's first dining car introduced on May 25, 1899. Explore how the Meiji era modernization birthed a unique culinary train culture that evolved into today's Ekiben and luxury sleeper trains.

2026.05.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 24th is Golf Course Memorial Day: The Birth of Japan’s First Golf Course, Kobe Golf Club

Discover the fascinating history behind May 24th, Japan's Golf Course Memorial Day. Learn how Arthur Hesketh Groom built the Kobe Golf Club in 1903 and how Japan transformed the sport into a unique cultural experience.

2026.05.24

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[May 23] Japan’s First Subway Wasn’t for People? The Secret 1915 Postal Train Beneath Tokyo Station

Did you know Japan's first subway wasn't for passengers? On May 23, 1915, a secret underground train for mail opened at Tokyo Station. Discover the hidden history of Tokyo's infrastructure and Japanese culture on Kiri53!

2026.05.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Stingy Millionaire and Sankichi: A Japanese Folktale on the Fate of Greed and True Strength

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Stingy Millionaire and Sankichi" from Akita. Learn about Japanese culture, Karma, and the thrilling story of how a brave, hardworking servant outwitted a greedy millionaire.

2026.05.22

Japanese Folktale Series

What is May 22? The Birth of Pac-Man and the Global Leap of Japan’s “Kawaii” Culture

Discover the history of May 22, 1980, the day Pac-Man was announced. Learn how this iconic retro arcade game introduced Japan's unique Kawaii culture to the world.

2026.05.22

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 21st – Shoman: The Season of Awakening and Flourishing Life

Discover the deep cultural meaning of Shoman (May 21), one of Japan's 24 solar terms. Learn how the season of growing greenery reflects the Zen philosophy of "Wabi-sabi" and finding joy in small fulfillment.

2026.05.21

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series