Culture

Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 2

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 […]

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Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 1

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.

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What Is “Ishin Denshin”? A Deep Japanese Concept of Silent Understanding

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ “Ishin Denshin”(以心伝心): Understanding Japanese Nonverbal Culture ~ Want to learn what Yojijukugo are? Check out our introduction post here! Tap to listen: “Ishin Denshin” ©ondoku3.com Summary “Ishin Denshin” (以心伝心) is a Yojijukugo (Japanese four-character idiom). It means “communicating without words through mutual understanding.”

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“Tanabata”: The Japanese Star Festival of Love and Wishes

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

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Japanese Toilets 101: A Clean and Cozy Surprise for Visitors – Part 4

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why Japanese Toilets Make Noise: Meet Otohime, the Sound Princess ~ Summary Some Japanese public toilets feature a function called Otohime (the sound function), which plays water or nature sounds to mask bathroom noises and protect privacy. It helps users feel more comfortable, especially in quiet places.

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Japanese Toilets 101: A Clean and Cozy Surprise for Visitors – Part 2

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ The Sacred Side of Japanese Toilets: From Ancient Rituals to High-Tech Wonders ~ Jomon Period (around 13,000 BCE):Japan’s oldest toilets were known as kawaya, where people relieved themselves directly into rivers. Heian Period (794–1185): Commoners typically relieved themselves outdoors, while nobles used indoor boxes for waste. Kamakura to Edo Period

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“Ichigo Ichie”(一期一会) Isn’t About Strawberries: What This Japanese Idiom Really Means

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ “Ichigo Ichie“: The Japanese Philosophy of Treasuring Each Encounter ~ Want to learn what Yojijukugo are? Check out our introduction post here! Tap to listen: “Ichigo Ichie” ©ondoku3.com Summary “Ichigo Ichie” (一期一会) is a Yojijukugo (Japanese four-character idiom). It means “one time, one meeting.”

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