#TravelJapan

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

December 30th: Subway Anniversary (Chikatetsu Kinenbi)

Discover the history of Japan's first subway opening on December 30, 1927. Explore how the Tokyo Metro shaped Japanese culture, punctuality, and urban order in this detailed guide.

2025.12.30

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

December 29th: The Day Japan’s Aesthetics Were Recognized by the World

On December 29, 1993, Himeji Castle and Horyu-ji became Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the history, the contrast between samurai aesthetics and Buddhist spirituality, and the unique Japanese philosophy of wooden architecture.

2025.12.29

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Introduction: The Tale of a Fox Who Longed for the Sky

Discover the Japanese folktale "The Fox Who Flew" (Sora wo Tonda Kitsune). A touching story of a Kitsune named Gin who challenges the sky. Explore the cultural meaning of transformation and finding one's true place.

2025.12.23

Japanese Folktale 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.

2025.12.23

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【December 20】Department Store Opening Day: The Revolution of Japanese Shopping Culture

Discover the history of December 20, Japan's Department Store Opening Day. Learn how Mitsukoshi's 1904 declaration revolutionized shopping, created the "Depachika" culture, and blended Western retail with Japanese tradition.

2025.12.20

“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.

2025.12.19

“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.

2025.12.18

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

The Epic of Hachiro of Lake Hachiro: A Deep Dive into Power, Love, and Japanese Culture

Explore the tragic legend of Hachiro of Lake Hachiro, who transformed from a benevolent hero into a Dragon God. We analyze the themes of ultimate power, loneliness, and the Japanese relationship with water and nature, connecting this ancient Akita folktale to modern life.

2025.12.15

Japanese Folktale Series

🇯🇵 December 7th: “Taisetsu” (Major Snow) — Unveiling the Depths of Japanese Culture Shaped by Winter

Explore December 7th: "Taisetsu," the Major Snow term in the Japanese calendar. Learn how snow shaped Japan's history, food culture, Wabi-Sabi aesthetic, and communal wisdom for surviving winter. Essential reading for Japan enthusiasts.

2025.12.07

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series