#TravelJapan

April 24th is “Japan Derby Memorial Day”: Exploring Japanese History and Culture Through Horse Racing

Discover the history of Japan Derby Memorial Day (April 24). Explore how Japanese horse racing evolved from ancient Shinto rituals to a modern pop culture phenomenon.

2026.04.24

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 19 is “Map Day” in Japan: The “First Step” of Tadataka Ino, the Man Who Walked Japan at Age 55

Discover the awe-inspiring story of Tadataka Ino, the man who started mapping Japan on foot at age 55. Learn about Japan's Map Day (April 19) and the spirit of Japanese perseverance.

2026.04.19

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

April 14: The Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Matsuri) – Where Hida Craftsmanship Meets the Breath of Spring

Explore the history and cultural significance of the Spring Takayama Festival (Sanno Matsuri) held every April 14th. Marvel at the intricate Yatai floats, traditional Karakuri marionettes, and the unparalleled craftsmanship of Hida in this comprehensive guide to one of Japan's most beautiful traditional festivals.

2026.04.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 19th: The Birth of “Hato Bus” – Exploring Japanese Hospitality and Post-War Recovery Through Tokyo’s Iconic Yellow Buses

Discover the history of Tokyo's famous yellow Hato Bus, which began operations on March 19, 1949. Learn how it reflects post-war recovery and the true spirit of Japanese "Omotenashi" hospitality.

2026.03.19

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

What is March 12th? The Epic History and Dance of Flames at Todaiji Temple’s “Omizutori”

Discover the epic history and cultural significance of Todaiji Temple's Omizutori on March 12. Learn how giant torches and sacred water signify the arrival of spring in Japan in this uninterrupted 1,250-year-old Buddhist ritual.

2026.03.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 9, 1958: The Day Honshu and Kyushu Were Connected Under the Sea

Discover the Kanmon Tunnel, opened on March 9, 1958. Learn about this rare walkable undersea tunnel connecting Honshu and Kyushu, its incredible 21-year engineering history, and the profound Japanese cultural events surrounding the Kanmon Straits.

2026.03.09

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 6th is “Round-the-World Trip Day”: How Air Travel Transformed Japanese History and Culture

Discover why March 6th is celebrated as Round-the-World Trip Day in Japan. Explore the history of Japan Airlines' 1967 global route and its profound connection to traditional Japanese travel culture and the spirit of "Ichigo Ichie".

2026.03.06

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Japan’s Spring Awakening: Finding Harmony with Nature on “Keichitsu” (March 5)

Discover "Keichitsu" on March 5, the day hibernating creatures awaken in Japan. Explore the 24 solar terms, spring food, and Japan's deep bond with nature.

2026.03.05

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

February 16th: “Weather Map Day” in Japan – Why We Read the Sky

Discover why February 16 is celebrated as Weather Map Day in Japan. Explore the history from 1883 and how weather shapes Japanese culture and aesthetics.

2026.02.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

【Feb 14】Valentine’s Day in Japan: A Unique Festival of Love, Duty, and Chocolate

Discover why Japanese women give chocolates to men on February 14th. Explore the history, the difference between Honmei and Giri-choco, and the evolution of this unique cultural event in Japan.

2026.02.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series