Words & Spirit Tai-an (大安): The Day When Everything Goes Well
Discover Rokuyō, Japan’s six-day fortune calendar used to decide lucky or unlucky days for weddings, funerals, and daily events. Learn its history and meanings.
Japanese Traditions
Words & Spirit 
Religion & Rituals “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.
Words & Spirit Ichigo Ichie: A Japanese Philosophy of Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounters
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.
Words & Spirit Why Do Japanese People Say “Itadakimasu”? The Meaning Behind a Simple Word
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.
Seasons & Traditions 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.
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.
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.
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.
Seasons & Traditions Japanese Annual Events: A Year of Traditions and Celebrations
Discover Japanese annual events from New Year to winter festivals. A guide to traditions, customs, and the seasonal spirit of Japan.