#Kyoto

August 16: Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi (Sending the Spirits) — A Beautiful Japanese Tradition of Guiding Ancestors Home

Discover the profound Japanese tradition of Tsuki-okure Bon Okuribi on August 16. Learn about the history, Kyoto's Gozan no Okuribi, and how Japan honors ancestral spirits through sacred summer bonfires.

2026.08.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Enchanting Japanese Folktale: What “Ankoromochi Kozo” Teaches Us About Japanese Heart and Culture

Dive deep into the famous Japanese folktale "Ankoromochi Kozo". Explore the fascinating story, its deep cultural meanings, and what it reveals about Japanese traditions and harmony.

2026.08.03

Japanese Folktale Series

July 8, 1864: The Ikedaya Incident and the Rise of the Shinsengumi

Discover the history of the Ikedaya Incident on July 8, 1864. Learn how the legendary Shinsengumi clashed with samurai revolutionaries in Kyoto, changing Japanese history forever. Read the full story on kiri53.com!

2026.07.08

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 30th: Nagoshi no Oharae – Japan’s Summer Purification Rite

Learn about Nagoshi no Oharae, Japan's traditional summer purification ritual held on June 30th. Discover the meaning behind Chinowa Kuguri, Katashiro paper dolls, and how the Japanese reset their spirit for the second half of the year.

2026.06.30

“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.

2026.06.26

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 31st: Captivated by the Magic of “Shinryoku” (Fresh Greenery) in Early Japanese Summer

Discover the beauty of May 31st in Japan. Explore "Shinryoku" (fresh greenery), Aomomiji, and how the Japanese tradition of forest bathing and Wabi-sabi connects deeply with nature.

2026.05.31

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

A Miracle in Kyoto: What “Takoyakushi” Teaches Us About True Love and Faith

Discover the captivating Japanese folktale of Takoyakushi (The Octopus Buddha). Explore the deep cultural roots of filial piety, Buddhist miracles, and Kyoto's hidden history in this touching story of a monk's ultimate choice.

2026.05.11

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

February 28th is “Rikyu-ki”: The Perfection of Wabi-cha and a Tragic End

Discover the profound history of Sen no Rikyu Memorial Day (Feb 28). Explore how his philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, Zen, and minimalism shaped the Japanese tea ceremony and offers powerful life lessons for the modern world.

2026.02.28

“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.

2026.02.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series