When summer arrives in Japan, it brings with it more than just festivals and fireworks—it also invites a centuries-old tradition of ghost stories and supernatural tales known as kaidan (怪談). While many cultures have ghost stories, Japan’s kaidan hold a special place in the national imagination. The... READ MORE

When one thinks of Japan, images of neon-lit cities, cherry blossoms, and bullet trains often come to mind. But tucked behind the urban bustle lies a quieter, more intimate tradition: the sentō, or public bathhouse. These humble establishments are more than just places to wash—they are windows into... READ MORE

In Japan, festivals—known as matsuri—are vibrant cultural celebrations that blend centuries-old religious practices with seasonal joy and community spirit. While each region has its own unique customs, rituals, and performances, there is one element that unites all matsuri: food. The colorful, sizz... READ MORE

In Japan, the changing seasons are not just a backdrop to daily life but a profound source of inspiration woven into the fabric of art and literature. Among the most exquisite expressions of this sensitivity is the use of "kigo" (季語), or seasonal words, in haiku poetry. Kigo encapsulate the essence... READ MORE

While Japanese weddings are widely celebrated, few outsiders know about yuino (結納), the formal engagement ceremony that predates the wedding itself. Rooted in Japan's aristocratic past, this ritual transforms a personal promise into a sacred bond between families. Unlike Western engagements, which ... READ MORE