Japan

What Is “Obon”? Discover Japan’s Beautiful Festival to Welcome Ancestors – Part 1

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 […]

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Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Summer Fireworks Festivals – Part 3

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

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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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