#KyotoHistory

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 13th. Did you know that this day is celebrated in Japan as “Urushi no Hi,” or “Lacquer Day”?

November 13th is 'Urushi Day' (Lacquer Day) in Japan. Discover the deep history, from a Heian-era prince to 9,000-year-old artifacts. We explore why this "poisonous" sap is Japan's most treasured material and its link to the spirit of monozukuri.
Japanese Folktale Series

Ushiwakamaru: The Genesis of a Japanese Legend – The Story of the Tengu and Benkei | Japanese Folktale Series

Dive deep into the story of Ushiwakamaru, the boyhood of tragic hero Minamoto no Yoshitsune. Discover his secret training with the Kurama Tengu, his famous duel with Benkei, and the cultural roots of 'Hogan Biiki' (sympathy for the underdog) in Japanese culture.