JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~“Toji“: How Japan Welcomes Light on the Darkest Day of the Year~ Summary “Toji” is Japan’s winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, symbolizing both the depth of winter and the return of light as days begin to grow longer. In Japan, families quietly celebrate at home by taking yuzu […]
What Is “Toji”? Japan’s Winter Solstice Tradition and the Yuzu Bath Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~”Tsukimi” Festival in Japan: Dumplings, the Harvest Moon, and a Rabbit on the Moon~ Summary “Tsukimi“, or the Moon Viewing Festival, is a Japanese tradition where people admire the autumn full moon, give thanks for the harvest, and enjoy foods like rice dumplings and seasonal treats. In Japan, people say they
Discover “Tsukimi”: How Japan Celebrates the Autumn Full Moon Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~”Bon Odori“: Japan’s Welcoming Summer Dance You Can Join Too!~ Summary “Bon Odori” is a traditional Japanese summer dance held during the “Obon” season to honor and welcome ancestral spirits. It’s an inclusive celebration where everyone can join the circle, often accompanied by food, music, and lanterns.
What Is “Obon”? Discover Japan’s Beautiful Festival to Welcome Ancestors – Part 2 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~How Japan Honors the Dead: A Guide to the “Obon” Festival~ Summary “Obon” is a traditional Japanese Buddhist event where families honor and welcome the spirits of their ancestors through rituals like visiting graves, preparing altars, and offering symbolic foods. It’s a meaningful time that blends spirituality, family connection, and cultural
What Is “Obon”? Discover Japan’s Beautiful Festival to Welcome Ancestors – Part 1 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~What to Bring and What to Know: Essential Tips and Local Etiquette of Fireworks Festivals~ Summary Japanese fireworks festivals are beautiful but can get very crowded, so it’s important to arrive early, follow local manners like not taking up too much space, staying quiet during the show, and avoiding smoking outside
Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 3 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Good Locations of Fireworks Festivals in Tokyo: A Must-See Summer Experience in Japan~ 1. Sumida River Fireworks Festival:This is one of the most famous and historic fireworks festivals in Tokyo. With a tradition that dates back to the Edo period, visitors can enjoy the fireworks from two locations along the Sumida
Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 2 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Why Japan’s Summer Fireworks Festivals Are a Must-See Cultural Experience~ Summary Japan’s fireworks festivals are spectacular cultural events held nationwide mainly in July and August, combining centuries-old tradition with breathtaking displays, food stalls, and people in yukata. It’s a must-see experience that brings together history, craftsmanship, and community celebration.
Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 1 Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Why Japanese People Write Wishes on Paper for “Tanabata“~ Summary “Tanabata” is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on July 7th, based on a romantic legend about two star-crossed lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi, who can only meet once a year. People write their wishes on colorful paper strips called tanzaku and hang
“Tanabata”: The Japanese Star Festival of Love and Wishes Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~From the Pond to the Sky! Flying Fish Brings Good Fortune to Children~ Summary “Koinobori“is flown in Japan to celebrate Children’s Day and symbolize effort and growth.
Why Are Colorful Fish Flying in Japan? Discover “Koinobori” Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~History of “Hanami”~ “Hanami” started way back in the Heian period (794–1185) Aristocrats would write poems and play kemari. It’s a game where you kick a ball and try not to let it fall while enjoying the cherry blossoms. Summary Only Aristocrats enjoyed “Hanami” in the Heian period (794–1185) Regular people
Discover “Hanami”: Japan’s Beautiful Picnic Tradition–Part 4 Read More »
