#TokyoHistory

“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.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 18: The Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) — A Tragedy of Kimono and the Rebirth of Edo

Discover the haunting legend of the Furisode Fire (Great Fire of Meireki) on Jan 18, 1657. A cursed kimono that destroyed Edo and reshaped modern Tokyo's history.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Taste of Enlightenment: Why December 25th is the Birthday of Japanese Chocolate

Discover why Dec 25 is the birthday of chocolate in Japan. Explore the history of Yonezu Fugetsudo in 1878, the cultural impact of "Bunmei Kaika," and how Japan adapted Western sweets.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 23rd. While much of the world is wrapped in the festive spirit of Christmas, for the skyline of Tokyo, this date holds a special, monumental significance. On this day in 1958, the Tokyo Tower was completed and officially opened. Standing at 333 meters (1,092 feet), it boasted the title of the world’s tallest self-supporting steel tower at the time. Piercing the sky with its vibrant red framework, it stood not just as a broadcasting antenna, but as a powerful symbol of Japan’s post-war recovery and rapid economic growth.

Discover the history of Tokyo Tower, completed on Dec 23, 1958. Explore its post-war significance, engineering marvels, and why it remains Tokyo's beloved symbol over Skytree.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Day the Samurai Took to the Skies: December 19th, Japan’s First Flight

Discover the history of December 19, 1910, when Japan conquered the skies for the first time. Learn how the Meiji spirit of innovation transformed samurai descendants into aviators at Yoyogi Park.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 18: Tokyo Station Completion Anniversary – A Century of Resilience and Beauty

Discover the history of Tokyo Station on its Dec 18th anniversary. From Kingo Tatsuno's 1914 red brick design to the 2012 restoration. Explore the cultural significance of Japan's central terminal.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

It Didn’t Start with a “Nagaya”: November 6th, the Day Privacy Was Born in Japan

Discover why November 6th is Apartment Day in Japan. Explore the history of the 1910 "Ueno Club," the first apartment building, and how it shaped modern Japanese living and the unique terms "apaato" vs "mansion."
“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.