#VisitJapan

[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] “Koban no Mushiboshi”: The Curious Link Between Idleness and Fortune

Discover the Japanese folktale "Koban no Mushiboshi." A story of a lazy boy, magical mice, and gold coins. Learn why idleness and innocence can bring great fortune in Japanese culture.

2026.02.15

Japanese Folktale Series

Do you know which country has the longest continuing monarchy in the world?

Discover the meaning behind Feb 11, Japan's National Foundation Day. Explore the myths of Emperor Jimmu, the history of 660 BCE, and why this holiday is celebrated so quietly.

2026.02.11

“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

January 22nd is Curry Rice Day: The Story of Japan’s “National Dish” Born from School Lunches

Discover why January 22 is Curry Rice Day in Japan. Explore the history of school lunches, the British Navy connection, and why Japanese curry is unique. A deep dive into Japan's national dish.

2026.01.22

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Even the King of Hell Needs a Break: The Hidden Truth of January 16th, “Enma Mairi”

Discover the hidden meaning of January 16th in Japan: Enma Saijitsu. Why does the King of Hell take a break? Explore the unique customs of Enma Mairi and the deep cultural philosophy of forgiveness.

2026.01.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

[Japanese Folktale] Yamabushi Ishi: The Tale of the Silent Stone and the Price of Arrogance

Discover the haunting Japanese folktale of Yamabushi Ishi. A story of a monk turned to stone, exploring Shugendo, nature worship, and the price of arrogance.

2026.01.15

Japanese Folktale Series

While January 1st is celebrated as “O-shogatsu” (Great New Year), January 15th holds its own special place in Japanese hearts as “Koshogatsu” or the “Little New Year.” This day marks a significant cultural boundary, concluding the festive New Year period. Today, we delve into the profound history and spiritual essence behind this tradition.

Explore the rich traditions of Koshogatsu (January 15th) in Japan. Learn about the spiritual meaning of red bean porridge (Azuki-gayu), the Dondoyaki fire festivals, and the cultural significance of "Women's New Year."

2026.01.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

January 14th. In the Japanese calendar, this is not merely another winter day. It is a day when the entire nation shed tears, marveled at the resilience of life, and reaffirmed the meaning of the word “hope.” Today is known as “Taro and Jiro Day,” or alternatively, the “Day of Love, Hope, and Courage.”

Discover the touching history of Taro and Jiro Day (Jan 14). Learn how two Sakhalin huskies survived a year in Antarctica and became symbols of hope and resilience in Japanese culture.

2026.01.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Mystery of the Misty Pass: The Packhorse Driver and the Tanuki

Discover the classic Japanese folktale "Umakata to Tanuki." A story of a shapeshifting Tanuki, a clever driver, and a battle of wits on a misty mountain pass. Explore the cultural meaning behind Japanese Yokai.

2026.01.12

Japanese Folktale Series