#Shinto

📅 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.

2025.12.08

“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.

2025.11.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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?

2025.11.09

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.

2025.10.13

Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale Series: A Tale of Wisdom and Fortune – The Rich Man Tanishi (Tanishi Choja)

The full story of 'Tanishi Choja' and a deep dive into the Japanese cultural values of 'Hoon-Kansha' (Gratitude) and 'Coexistence with Nature' embedded in the tale, perfect for international readers. Discover the meaning behind this classic Japanese folktale.

2025.10.10

Japanese Folktale Series

Binbōgami and Fukugami | A Japanese Folktale About Fortune and Heart

Discover the heartwarming Japanese folktale of Binbōgami and Fukugami—two gods who reveal how kindness and inner richness shape our destiny. A timeless story that bridges Japanese culture and universal values.

2025.09.22

Japanese Folktale Series