#VisitJapan

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

January 12: “Coming of Age Day” (Seijin no Hi) — Japan’s Colorful Rite of Passage

Discover the beauty and complexity of Japan's Coming of Age Day (Seijin no Hi). Explore the history of samurai rituals, the vibrant Furisode kimonos, and how the shift from age 20 to 18 impacts this modern rite of passage.

2026.01.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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

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