Martial ArtsThe Complete Guide to Sumo: Japan’s Sacred National Sport Explained
Explore sumo wrestling beyond the ring: its sacred Shinto roots, ranking hierarchy, rituals, and living cultural significance in Japanese tradition.
Martial Arts
Japanese TraditionsDebunking the Myth: Does Okinawa’s Sanshin Use Habu Snake Skin? The Real Story Behind This Traditional Instrument
Is Okinawa’s sanshin really made from habu snake skin? Discover the true materials, history, and ethical issues behind this iconic Japanese instrument.
Science and NatureDoes Okinawa Have Four Seasons? Understanding the Subtropical Rhythm of Japan’s Southern Islands
Does Okinawa have four seasons? Discover how Japan's southern islands experience the subtropical seasons differently through subtle weather shifts, traditions, and nature’s rhythm.
Science and NatureWhy Are Cherry Blossoms So Often Found Along Rivers in Japan? The Deeper Story Behind Japan’s Iconic Spring Scenery
Why are cherry blossoms often planted along rivers in Japan? Discover the historical, cultural, and environmental reasons behind this iconic pairing of petals and water.
Science and NatureWhy Are Spring, Summer, and Fall So Short in Hokkaido? Understanding the Long Winter and Unique Rhythm of Japan’s Northernmost Island
Why do spring, summer, and fall feel so short in Hokkaido? Discover how Japan’s northern island experiences its long winter and unique seasonal rhythm.
Japanese TraditionsDo Torii Gates Only Belong to Shinto Shrines? Understanding Japan’s Interwoven Sacred Spaces
Do torii gates belong only to Shinto shrines? Explore Japan’s unique religious history of Shinbutsu-Shugo and why torii sometimes appear at Buddhist temples too.
Japanese CultureWhy Do Japanese People Visit Graves During the Spring Equinox? Exploring the Tradition of Higan
Discover the Japanese tradition of visiting graves during the spring equinox. Learn about Higan, its Buddhist roots, seasonal symbolism, and why honoring ancestors remains deeply important in Japan.
Japanese SocietyWhat Is Shunbun no Hi? Japan’s Spring Equinox Holiday and Its Deeper Meaning
Shunbun no Hi (Spring Equinox Day) is a national holiday in Japan that honors nature and ancestors. Learn its meaning, traditions, and how Japanese people celebrate it.
Japanese CuisineWhat Is Zunda? Exploring Japan’s Sweet Green Soybean Paste
Discover zunda, Japan’s vibrant green soybean paste from Tohoku. Learn its origins, nutritional benefits, traditional sweets like zunda mochi, and modern zunda desserts you can try in Japan.
Japanese SocietyWhy Are “Jiko Bukken” (Stigmatized Properties) Avoided in Japan? Understanding the Cultural Fears Behind Haunted Real Estate
Discover why Jiko Bukken, Japan’s stigmatized properties linked to death, are avoided in real estate. Learn about disclosure laws, cultural beliefs, and why some still rent these haunted homes.