#VisitJapan

July 25 is “Kakigori Day”! The Aesthetics of Summer Cooling Dating Back to the Heian Period

July 25 is Kakigori Day in Japan. Explore the 1,000-year history of Japanese shaved ice, from Heian period aristocratic luxury to modern culinary art.

2026.07.25

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 14: Haihan-chiken – The Day Japan Transformed Overnight

Discover the fascinating history of July 14 in Japan, the day of Haihan-chiken. Learn how the samurai domains were abolished overnight to create modern prefectures, and how this historic event shaped traditional Japanese culture.

2026.07.14

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

July 12, 1192: The Dawn of the Samurai Era and the Appointment of Minamoto no Yoritomo

Discover the history of July 12, 1192, when Minamoto no Yoritomo became Japan's first Seii Taishogun. Learn how the Kamakura Shogunate gave birth to the Samurai spirit and shaped Japanese culture forever.

2026.07.12

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 30th: Nagoshi no Oharae – Japan’s Summer Purification Rite

Learn about Nagoshi no Oharae, Japan's traditional summer purification ritual held on June 30th. Discover the meaning behind Chinowa Kuguri, Katashiro paper dolls, and how the Japanese reset their spirit for the second half of the year.

2026.06.30

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

June 16th is Wagashi Day: The “Kasho” Ritual and the Beauty of Japanese Tradition

Discover the rich history of Japan's Wagashi Day on June 16th. Learn about the ancient Kasho ritual from 848 AD, where traditional sweets were offered for health and plague dispellment. Explore the beauty of Japanese culture through sweets.

2026.06.16

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

Nyubai: The Hidden Wisdom and Art of Japan’s Rainy Season

Discover "Nyubai," the traditional Japanese calendar milestone marking the start of the rainy season on June 11. Explore its deep history, agricultural roots, and how Japanese culture transforms rain into breathtaking art.

2026.06.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

May 15: Okinawa Reversion Day – A Tale of the Southern Islands Where Unique Culture and Prayers for Peace Intersect

Discover the profound history and rich 'Champuru' culture of Okinawa on May 15, Okinawa Reversion Day. Learn about its journey from the Ryukyu Kingdom to modern Japan.

2026.05.15

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

A Dance of Fire Across 1,300 Years: May 11th “Nagaragawa Ukai Biraki” and Japanese Coexistence with Nature

Discover the Nagaragawa Ukai (cormorant fishing) opening on May 11. Explore the 1300-year-old Japanese tradition, the deep bond between master and bird, and Japan's coexistence with nature.

2026.05.11

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” Series

March 30 is “Nobunaga’s Ambition Day”: The Dawn of Japanese Historical Simulations

Discover why March 30 is Nobunaga's Ambition Day. Dive deep into the legacy of Japan's most famous samurai, Oda Nobunaga, and how a revolutionary video game shaped Japanese pop culture and history.

2026.03.30

“What’s Today’s Special Day?” 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