#TraditionalJapan

Old Man Nihei and the Tanuki: A Mysterious Winter Night Encounter

Discover the fascinating Japanese folktale of Old Man Nihei and the Tanuki. Dive deep into the cultural significance of yokai, the traditional charcoal-making lifestyle, and the moral lessons hidden within this humorous yet profound story.

2026.03.15

Japanese Folktale Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Peculiar Fate of the Man Washed Ashore on a Deserted Island

Discover the captivating Japanese folktale of a man washed ashore on a deserted island. Explore its deep connections to Japanese culture, animism, and the profound philosophy of coexistence with nature.

2026.02.23

Japanese Folktale Series

[Feb 19] Usui (Rain Water): The Day Snow Turns to Rain and Spring Awakens

Discover the magic of Usui (Feb 19), the Japanese solar term when snow turns to rain. Learn why this is the perfect day to display Hina Dolls for good luck and how Japan welcomes spring.

2026.02.19

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] The Frog’s Repayment: A Story of Honor and Sacrifice

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Frog's Repayment" (Kaeru no Ongaeshi). A touching story of a frog who becomes a samurai to save his savior. Explore the meaning of 'On' and Japanese culture.

2026.02.04

Japanese Folktale Series

Japanese Folktale Series: “The Fox’s Consultation” – A Lesson in Harmony and Wisdom

Explore "The Fox's Consultation," a unique Japanese folktale where a wise fox chooses negotiation over conflict. Learn about its cultural roots and the spirit of coexistence.

2026.01.31

Japanese Folktale Series

January 11th Kagami Biraki: A Ritual of the Japanese Soul to Embody Divine Power

Discover the meaning of Kagami Biraki on Jan 11th. Learn why Japanese people break hard mochi with hammers, the link to Samurai seppuku taboos, and the spiritual power of eating sweet red bean soup.

2026.01.11

“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.

2026.01.01

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

🇯🇵 Japanese Folktale Series: The Kajika Screen (Frog Screen) ~ The Fate of a Love Trapped in a Byōbu ~

Explore 'The Kajika Screen' (河鹿の屏風), a tragic Japanese folktale where a Samurai traps a beautiful Kajika frog maiden in a painting. Delve into the themes of forbidden love, the consequence of broken trust, and the deep-seated Japanese reverence for nature and the concept of 'Ma'.

2025.12.08

Japanese Folktale Series

🇯🇵Japanese Folktale Series: The Raccoon Dog’s Spinning Wheel – A Tale of Wisdom and Kindness

Explore "The Raccoon Dog's Spinning Wheel" (Tanuki no Itoguruma), a beloved Japanese folktale. Discover its cultural meanings, from the spirit of reciprocity to the Animistic belief in Yaoyorozu no Kami and the philosophy of Mottainai. A deep dive into traditional Japanese virtues for international readers.

2025.12.06

Japanese Folktale Series

November 13th. Did you know that this day is celebrated in Japan as “Urushi no Hi,” or “Lacquer Day”?

November 13th is 'Urushi Day' (Lacquer Day) in Japan. Discover the deep history, from a Heian-era prince to 9,000-year-old artifacts. We explore why this "poisonous" sap is Japan's most treasured material and its link to the spirit of monozukuri.

2025.11.13

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series