Story | Japanese ordinary Life and Mind

Customs and Rituals at the End of the Year – Japanese Hearts Reflected There

December in Japan is full of traditional customs to welcome the New Year — from house cleaning and writing New Year’s cards to visiting temples and enjoying warm meals. Discover how Japanese people end the year with gratitude and preparation for a fresh start.

2025.10.10

Religion & RitualsSeasons & Traditions

Koyo (紅葉): Autumn Foliage and the Spirit of Japanese Aesthetics

Discover the beauty of autumn leaves in Japan, where vibrant momiji reflect the Japanese sense of impermanence and the fleeting nature of life.

2025.10.02

Places & JourneysReligion & RitualsSeasons & Traditions

“Shichi-Go-San” 七五三 : Celebration Ritual for Children

Shichi-Go-San (七五三) is a Japanese traditional celebration for children aged three, five, and seven. Families visit shrines or temples, pray for health, dress children in kimono, and take photos. Discover the rituals, history, and how even foreign visitors can experience it in Japan.

2025.09.26

Religion & RitualsSeasons & Traditions

Ichigo-Ichie: Treasuring One-Time Encounters in Japan

Discover the Japanese philosophy of Ichigo-Ichie, “treasuring one-time encounters.” From Zen tea ceremony to airlines, hotels, and daily life, learn how this spirit shapes Japanese hospitality.

2025.09.12

Words & Spirit

Summer in Japan: Beauty, Heat, and the Risk of Heatstroke

Japan’s summer is beautiful but extremely hot and humid. Learn about heatstroke (熱中症), prevention tips, emergency advice, and safe destinations to enjoy your trip during July and August.

2025.09.05

Seasons & Traditions

“Itadakimasu” – The Spirit of Gratitude in Japanese Meals

Discover the meaning of “Itadakimasu,” the Japanese phrase said before meals. Learn its history, Buddhist roots, and how it reflects Japan’s culture of gratitude.

2025.08.28

Words & Spirit

Japan from October to December – Traditions and Celebrations

Discover Japanese winter traditions from October to December, including Sports Day, autumn leaves, Shichi-Go-San, winter solstice rituals, Christmas, Shigoto-osame, and Ōsōji.

2025.08.25

Seasons & Traditions

Japan from July to September – Traditions and Memories

Discover Japanese traditions and seasonal events from July to September — from mountain-opening rituals and Tanabata wishes to Obon, Peace Memorial Days, eel on Doyo-no-Ushi, and the Autumn Higan. A journey into Japan’s culture and seasonal life.

2025.08.25

Seasons & Traditions

Japan from April to June – Traditions and Observances

Discover Japan’s summer traditions from April to June, including school and company entrance ceremonies, Hana-matsuri (Buddha’s birthday), Children’s Day with koi-nobori, and the rainy season Tsuyu. Learn about Japanese customs and seasonal life.

2025.08.22

Seasons & Traditions

Japan from January to March – Festivals and Traditions

Explore Japan’s winter traditions from January to March, including Jyoya-no-Kane, Hatsu-Hinode, Hatsu-Moude, Seijin-no-Hi, Setsubun, Hina-Matsuri, Higan, graduation ceremonies, and the first cherry blossoms. Learn about Japanese customs, history, and seasonal celebrations.

2025.08.22

Seasons & Traditions