#OnThisDay

September 16: The Ertugrul Frigate Disaster – A Story of Debt, Gratitude, and an Unbreakable Bond Beyond Borders

Discover the incredible true story of the 1890 Ertugrul frigate disaster. Learn how a Japanese village's selfless rescue sparked a 95-year bond and a miraculous return favor in Tehran.

2026.09.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 14, 1900: The Dawn of Women’s Education in Japan Forged by Umeko Tsuda

Discover the inspiring story of Umeko Tsuda, who opened the Women's Institute for English Studies on Sept 14, 1900. Learn how she defied societal norms and reshaped Japanese culture forever.

2026.09.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Day the Earth Remembered: The 1498 Meio Earthquake and Japan’s Philosophy of Impermanence

Discover the untold story of the 1498 Meio Earthquake. Learn how this massive Nankai Trough megaquake transformed Lake Hamana, left the Kamakura Daibutsu without a roof, and forged the resilient Japanese philosophy of Impermanence.

2026.09.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[August 28] The Dawn of a New Era in Japanese Media: Commercial TV Start Day & TV CM Day

Discover the history of August 28, 1953, the day Nippon TV launched Japan's first commercial broadcast. Read the funny truth behind Japan's first Seiko TV commercial and how it shaped Japanese high-context pop culture.

2026.08.28

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 25: The Introduction of Firearms to Japan (1543) – The Two Matchlocks That Changed History and the Hidden Tragedy of a Young Girl

On August 25, 1543, firearms were introduced to Japan. Discover the hidden, tragic folklore of Wakasa and how it sparked Japan's legendary Monozukuri craftsmanship.

2026.08.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[August 18] The Day the US-Japan Bond Turned Washington D.C. Pink: The Moving Story Woven by 2,000 Cherry Trees

Discover the fascinating true story behind the Japanese cherry blossoms in Washington D.C., starting from a historic decision on August 18, 1909. A tale of culture, resilience, and true friendship.

2026.08.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 10: The Dawn of Japan’s Coin Economy – The Issuance of Wadokaichin

Discover the fascinating history of Wadokaichin, Japan's first official copper coin issued on August 10, 708. Explore a vivid historical story and learn how this ancient currency revolutionized Japanese culture and trade.

2026.08.10

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

August 3: “Gakusei Promulgation Day” – The Dawn of Education that Supported Japan’s Modernization

Discover the history of August 3, Japan's Gakusei Promulgation Day. Learn how the Meiji era's revolutionary education system shaped modern Japanese culture.

2026.08.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 23 is “Rice Riot Day”: The Historic Turning Point that Started in a Toyama Fishing Village

Discover the history of Japan's 1918 Rice Riots on July 23. Learn how local housewives changed history and explore the deep cultural significance of rice in Japan.

2026.07.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 16 is Ekiben Day: The Ultimate Food Culture of Japanese Train Travel

Discover the fascinating history and cultural significance of Ekiben (Japanese railway bento) on July 16, Ekiben Memorial Day. Learn how this unique food culture enhances train travel in Japan.

2026.07.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series