#Tradition

Japanese Folktale Series

Clash of the Titans: Nio and Dokkoi

Have you ever noticed the gigantic, muscular statues with terrifying expressions standing at the gates of Japanese templ...
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Silence and Rebirth: January 7th, “Jinjitsu no Sekku” and the Tale of Nanakusa-gayu

Discover the history and meaning of Jinjitsu no Sekku (Jan 7th) in Japan. Learn why Japanese people eat Nanakusa-gayu (Seven Herb Porridge) for health and longevity.
“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Shokan (Lesser Cold): The Beginning of Japan’s Deep Winter

Discover the meaning of "Shokan" (Lesser Cold), marked on January 5th. Explore Japanese winter traditions like Kanchu-mimai, Kan-geiko, and the philosophy of endurance in this deep dive into the 24 Solar Terms.
“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

The Quiet Approach of Winter: Exploring “Shōsetsu” (Small Snow)

November 22nd is "Shōsetsu" in the Japanese calendar. Explore the meaning of Small Snow, the tradition of dried foods like Hoshigaki, and the cultural shift into winter in Japan.