#JapanTravel

Japanese Folktale Series

The Heartbreaking Japanese Folktale “The Demon That Sank Into the Sea” – Learning Japanese Culture through Self-Sacrifice and Family Bonds

Discover the tragic yet beautiful Japanese folktale "The Demon That Sank Into the Sea" (海に沈んだ鬼). Explore the deep cultural meaning of self-sacrifice, guardian deities, and the bond between parent and child in this Kochi Prefecture legend.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 10 is “Takenoko no Sato Day”: Unveiling the Sweet, Fierce “National Chocolate” Dividing Japan

Discover March 10th, "Takenoko no Sato Day" in Japan. Learn about the iconic Meiji chocolate snack, the legendary "Kinoko vs. Takenoko War," and the deep cultural meaning behind Japanese sweets.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 8, 1984: The Release of “Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind” that Changed Anime History

Discover the profound Japanese cultural roots and animistic beliefs behind Hayao Miyazaki's masterpiece, "Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind," released on March 8, 1984.
“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.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 1st is “Mayonnaise Day”! The Secret Behind the Magic Sauce Japanese People Love

Discover why March 1st is Mayonnaise Day in Japan. Explore the unique history of Kewpie, the "Mayora" phenomenon, and how Japanese egg-yolk mayo differs from the rest of the world. A deep dive into Japanese food culture!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 27, 1996: Where It All Began

Celebrate Pokémon Day on February 27! Discover the origins of Pokémon, its connection to Japanese animism, miniature culture, and why this iconic pop culture phenomenon captivated the entire world.1996年2月27日の『ポケットモンスター 赤・緑』発売を記念する「Pokémon Day」。ポケモンの原点である昆虫採集や、日本特有のアニミズム、ミニチュア文化など、ポケモンが世界中で愛される理由を日本文化の視点から深く解説します
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Mystery of “The Dancing Monster”: Tsukumogami and the Japanese Spirit of “Mottainai”

Dive into the fascinating Japanese folktale "The Dancing Monster" (Odoru Bakemono). Explore the deep cultural roots of Tsukumogami, Yokai, and the unique Japanese animistic belief of treating old objects with respect. Learn the true origin of the "Mottainai" spirit!
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 25th is Michizane-ki: The Tragedy and Deification of Japan’s God of Learning

Discover the tragic history of Sugawara no Michizane, honored on February 25th in Japan. Explore how a vengeful spirit became the beloved God of Learning, deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Kappa no Fuchi – The Noble Disguise and the Letter of Death

Discover the eerie Japanese folktale "Kappa no Fuchi." A story of a deadly trap set by a disguised water spirit, and how a monk's wisdom turned a death sentence into a fortune.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is Today? February 17th: “Gacha Day” and the Infinite World inside a Plastic Capsule

Discover the history of Japan's Gacha Day (Feb 17). Explore why high-quality capsule toys are a cultural phenomenon, from anime figures to weird miniatures, and essential souvenirs.