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 ~ “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.”
“Ichigo Ichie”（一期一会） Isn’t About Strawberries: What This Japanese Idiom Really Means Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Tengu Explained: Japan’s Legendary Trickster and Forest Guardian ~ Summary “Tengu” is a mythical creature from Japanese folklore. They are considered mysterious mountain spirits who can act as both protectors and tricksters.
What Is a “Tengu”? Discover Japan’s Mysterious Long-Nosed Mountain Spirit Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Meet the “Kappa“: Japan’s Legendary Water Creature and Its Cultural Role ~ Summary “Kappa” is a mysterious water spirit from Japanese folklore. “Kappa” reflects Japan’s deep connection to nature and serve as a warning for kids.
“Kappa” in Japan: Guardian, Trickster, and Cucumber-Loving Legend Read More »
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Is the world’s oldest national anthem a love song? ~ Kimigayo wa :“Kimi” can refer to the emperor, or more broadly, to someone important to you like a beloved leader or even a loved one. “yo” means “era” or “reign,” so together it wishes for their lasting time. Chiyo ni
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~The shortest and oldest lyrics in the world~ Kimigayo waChiyo ni yachiyo niSazare ishi noIwao to nariteKoke no musu made Summary Japan’s national anthem, “Kimigayo“, is the world’s oldest and shortest anthem, with just 32 poetic words from a poem written over 1,000 years ago.
JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~The Story of Rising Sun~ Summary Red circle: The sunWhite background: Cleanliness and honesty
The Meaning of Japan’s Flag: The Red Circle and White Background 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 »
