#RetroJapan

May 3 is Licca-chan’s Birthday! Exploring the History and Charm of Japan’s National Doll and Kawaii Culture

Celebrate May 3, the birthday of Licca-chan! Discover the history of Japan's iconic fashion doll, her evolution since 1967, and how she shaped the global Kawaii culture.

2026.05.03

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 28th is “Canned Juice Day”: The Dawn of Japan’s Beverage Culture

Discover the history of Japan's "Canned Juice Day" on April 28th. Learn how a 1954 innovation requiring a can opener evolved into Japan's world-famous vending machine culture, reflecting the deep concepts of Monozukuri and Omotenashi.

2026.04.28

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 4, 1983: The Dawn of “Oshin,” the Legendary Drama That Showed Japan’s Heart to the World

Discover the profound historical and cultural impact of the legendary Japanese drama "Oshin," which premiered on April 4, 1983. Learn about the Japanese spirit of "Gaman" and its global legacy.

2026.04.04

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 22: Broadcasting Day – The Day Japan’s Voice Took to the Skies

Discover the history of Japan's Broadcasting Day on March 22. Explore how the first radio transmission in 1925 shaped Japanese pop culture, anime, and society.

2026.03.22

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 2nd, 1920: The Day “Bus Girls” Changed Tokyo’s Streets Forever

Discover the history of "Bus Girl Day" in Japan (Feb 2). Learn how 1920s female conductors revolutionized Tokyo's transport and evolved into the iconic Japanese Bus Guides.

2026.02.02

“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.

2025.09.29

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

September 11: Public Telephone Day in Japan – A Retro Lifeline in the Smartphone Era

Explore the history and relevance of Japan’s public telephones on September 11, Public Telephone Day. Learn how these retro devices still serve communities and tourists in the smartphone era.

2025.09.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series