#MeijiRestoration

April 23, 1869: The Day Emperor Meiji’s First Visit to Ise Jingu Changed Japanese History and Culture

Discover the profound historical and cultural significance of April 23, 1869, when Emperor Meiji made the first-ever imperial visit to Ise Jingu, transforming Japan's future forever.

2026.04.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 6: The Charter Oath and the Dawn of Modern Japan

Discover how the Charter Oath of April 6, 1868, ended the samurai era and launched Japan's rapid modernization. Explore the fusion of Japanese tradition and Western democracy in our detailed historical guide.

2026.04.06

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 4 is “Yen Day”: The Birth of Japan’s Currency “YEN” and the Philosophy of “En” (Destiny)

Why are Japanese coins round? Discover the history of the Yen, established March 4, 1869, and the deep spiritual connection between "Yen" (money) and "En" (destiny). Uncover the magic of the 5-yen coin in this guide to Japanese culture!

2026.03.04

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 13: The Day Japanese People Got Their Names. The Truth Behind “Surname Establishment Day”

Why do Japanese people have over 100,000 surnames? Discover the story of February 13, 1875, when commoners were mandated to adopt family names, changing Japanese culture forever.

2026.02.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 13: The Day Samurai Challenged the Pacific – “Kanrin Maru Departure Day”

On Jan 13, 1860, the Kanrin Maru set sail, marking Japan's first voyage across the Pacific. Discover the story of Katsu Kaishu, Fukuzawa Yukichi, and the samurai spirit that embraced modernization. (1860年1月13日、咸臨丸が出航し、日本初の太平洋横断を記録しました。勝海舟、福沢諭吉、そして近代化を受け入れた侍魂の物語をご覧ください。)

2026.01.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

📅 Japan’s “Calendar Day” (December 3rd): The Intersection of Culture and Technology in Marking Time

Discover the history of Japan's Calendar Day (December 3rd), commemorating the 1872 switch from the Lunisolar to the Gregorian calendar. Learn how this reform reflects Japan's unique culture of combining ancient tradition (Rokuyō, seasonal terms) with modern technology and a love for the four seasons.

2025.12.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

November 9th: The Day Japan “Deleted” a Month and a Half

On Nov 9, 1872, Japan abandoned the lunar calendar for the Gregorian system. Discover the urgent political and secret financial reasons behind this massive cultural shift.

2025.11.09

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Meiji Era Name Change Day: Japan’s Leap Toward Modernization

September 8 marks Meiji Era Name Change Day, when Japan transitioned from feudal rule to a modern nation. Discover the meaning of Japanese era names, the cultural significance of Meiji, and how this historic shift shaped Japan’s future.

2025.09.08

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series