#MeijiEra

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 24th is “Opera Day”: The Day Meiji Japan Met Western Voices

Discover why November 24 is celebrated as "Opera Day" in Japan. Explore the history of the first performance of Faust in 1894, the Meiji era's cultural modernization, and how Western music fused with Japanese tradition.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 20: The Day Japanese Hospitality Met the West. What is “Hotel Day”?

Discover why November 20 is celebrated as Hotel Day in Japan. Explore the history of the Imperial Hotel, the blend of Western and Japanese hospitality, and how it changed travel culture in Japan.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 16th, Kindergarten Anniversary: A Symbol of Japan’s Modernization and the First Step in Learning “Group Harmony”

Discover the history of Japan's first kindergarten, established on November 16, 1876. Explore how early childhood education shapes Japanese culture, from group harmony (Wa) to "Kawaii" bento boxes.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 10th is Elevator Day: The Technology and Culture That Expanded Japan Vertically

Nov 10th is Elevator Day in Japan. Discover how the 1890 debut of Japan's first elevator in Asakusa's Ryōunkaku shaped Japanese society, architecture, and unspoken rules.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

It Didn’t Start with a “Nagaya”: November 6th, the Day Privacy Was Born in Japan

Discover why November 6th is Apartment Day in Japan. Explore the history of the 1910 "Ueno Club," the first apartment building, and how it shaped modern Japanese living and the unique terms "apaato" vs "mansion."
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Imperial Rescript on Education Day: Tracing the Source of Modern Japanese Education and Morality

On October 30, 1890, the Imperial Rescript on Education was promulgated, profoundly shaping Japanese values. Discover the 12 virtues, its historical role in the Meiji era, and how its spirit continues to influence modern Japanese culture and ethical standards today.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

October 5th is Timetable Day: A Symbol of Japan’s World-Renowned Precision and Meticulous Spirit.

October 5th is Timetable Day, commemorating the publication of Japan's first full-fledged timetable in 1894. We explore the history and cultural significance of the Japanese timetable, a symbol of precision, discipline, and 'Omotenashi' for international readers. Discover how this book shaped Japan's world-renowned punctuality.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🌃Lighting Up Meiji Japan: The First Gas Street Lamps in Yokohama

Discover how Japan’s first gas street lamps transformed Yokohama’s streets on September 29, 1872. Explore the cultural impact, historical context, and legacy of this milestone in Japan’s modernization, explained for international readers.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 September 22: Orphanage Day in Japan – A Journey into the Origins of Child Welfare

Discover the origins of Japan’s child welfare system through the inspiring story of Juji Ishii, who founded the nation’s first orphanage in 1887. Learn how Orphanage Day (September 22) honors his legacy and explore how Japan’s care for vulnerable children has evolved.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What Is Myōji Day? The Hidden History Behind Japanese Surnames

Explore the hidden history and cultural significance of Japanese surnames on Myōji Day (September 19). Learn how names reflect family, geography, and tradition in Japan.