#Shinto

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

While January 1st is celebrated as “O-shogatsu” (Great New Year), January 15th holds its own special place in Japanese hearts as “Koshogatsu” or the “Little New Year.” This day marks a significant cultural boundary, concluding the festive New Year period. Today, we delve into the profound history and spiritual essence behind this tradition.

Explore the rich traditions of Koshogatsu (January 15th) in Japan. Learn about the spiritual meaning of red bean porridge (Azuki-gayu), the Dondoyaki fire festivals, and the cultural significance of "Women's New Year."
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 9th: “Yoi-Ebisu” – The Enthusiastic Eve of Business Prosperity

Discover Yoi-Ebisu (Jan 9), the energetic eve of the Toka Ebisu festival in Japan. Explore the history of the God of Commerce, the lucky bamboo tradition, and why millions pray for wealth on this night.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Miracle of New Year’s Eve: “The Fire of the Great Year (Ōtoshi no Hi)”

Discover the mystical Japanese folktale "Ōtoshi no Hi" (The Fire of the Great Year). Learn about Toshigami, New Year's Eve traditions, and the cultural lesson of changing destiny through wisdom.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Dawn of Silence and Rebirth: The True Meaning of Japan’s “Ganjitsu”

Discover the profound meaning of Ganjitsu (January 1st) in Japan. From Hatsumode to Osechi, explore how Japanese people celebrate the New Year with silence, rebirth, and tradition.
Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] Toshigami-sama: The Story of the Visiting New Year God

Discover the Japanese folktale of Toshigami-sama, the New Year God. Learn why Japanese people decorate with Kadomatsu and the deep meaning behind Otoshidama and Kagami Mochi. A guide to Japanese spirituality.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 28, 1925: The Unification of East and West, The Birth of the Dai Nihon Sumo Association—Dawn of a National Sport

Discover the history of December 28, 1925, when the Tokyo and Osaka Sumo Associations merged. Learn how this event shaped Sumo into Japan's sacred national sport and preserved ancient traditions.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

📅 December 8th: Harikuyo and Koto-osame ― The Culture of Gratitude and Closure in Japan

Discover the profound meaning of December 8th in Japan: Harikuyo, the ceremony honoring broken needles, and Koto-osame, the day marking the start of New Year's preparations. Learn about the Japanese spirit of "Mottainai" and the culture of valuing time's clear boundaries.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Autumn in Japan is not merely a change of seasons. It is a sacred time when we receive blessings from the earth, and gods and humans become one through “food.” Today is November 23rd. While most modern Japanese recognize this day as “Labor Thanksgiving Day” (Kinro Kansha no Hi) and enjoy a public holiday, the true form of this day is hidden within the most important and mysterious imperial ritual that has been protected for over 2,000 years.

Discover the deep spiritual meaning of November 23rd in Japan. Beyond Labor Thanksgiving Day lies "Niinamesai," an ancient ritual where the Emperor communes with gods through rice. Explore Japan's soul.
Japanese Folktale Series

【Japanese Folktale Series】The Black Dragon of Oonuma

Explore the Japanese folktale "The Black Dragon of Oonuma." Discover a story of drought, sacrifice, and the profound Shinto belief in nature's voice. What can we learn from the dragon's message?
Japanese Folktale Series

Can You Hear It? The Voices of Animals: “Kikimimizukin” and the Japanese Spirit of Coexistence with Nature | Japanese Folktale Series

A thorough analysis of the Japanese folktale 'Kikimimizukin' (The Listening Cap), revealing the Japanese view of nature, animism, and the culture of 'Ongaishi' (returning a favor). We introduce the deep-rooted 'Yaoyorozu no Kami' (Eight Million Gods) spirit to international readers, offering lessons for modern society.