Discover the meaning of Chōyō no Sekku, Japan’s Chrysanthemum Festival on September 9. Rooted in samurai values and seasonal wisdom, it invites reflection on longevity, resilience, and the beauty of life’s fleeting seasons.

The Tanabata Festival, also known as the Star Festival, is one of Japan's most enchanting and culturally rich celebrations. The festival...

Mother's Day is a celebration cherished worldwide, dedicated to honoring the mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures who have shaped...

In Japan, the fifth day of May is a joyous occasion known as Children's Day, or Kodomo no Hi . This festive day is deeply rooted in...

Ikigai Samurai Wordcloud For many years, the word Ikigai  has captivated the hearts and minds of people around the world. It has been beautifully illustrated in books, posters, and social media as a Venn diagram; a tidy intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. While this version has inspired many to reflect on their purpose, it is not the true  Japanese meaning of Ikigai. As my interest in Ikigai intensified, I r

The world of percussion music is a realm of rhythm, energy, and cultural expression. Taiko drums, originating from Japan, are prominent...

Discover the profound symbolism of cherry blossoms in Japanese culture.

Hinamatsuri  is a traditional Japanese festival that combines elegance, history, and a touch of beauty. Also known as Doll's Day or...

In the land of the rising sun, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern festivities, one peculiar Christmas tradition has...

Japan is a land of rich history and traditions, and few festivals encapsulate its vibrant cultural heritage quite like the Jidai Matsuri....

Shikoku Island, a place of natural beauty and cultural significance in Japan, is home to a hidden gem: the Kikuma Horse Festival. This...

Being a grandparent is one of life’s biggest joys. I did not fully understand why my friends would be ‘head-over-heels’ when they spoke...

The concept of ganbaru holds a significant place in Japanese culture and is deeply established in the Japanese way of life. Ganbaru can...