Culture
Nanakusa Gayu – Japan’s Traditional Congee for the New Year
When visiting Japan in early January, you may hear about Nanakusa Gayu, a simple congee eaten on January 7th. After the rich meals and celebrations of the New Year season, this gentle dish is believed to rest the stomach and bring good health for the year ahead. More than just comfort food, Nanakusa Gayu is […]
Mochi – Exploring Japan’s Beloved Rice Cake and Its Many Varieties
When traveling in Japan, you will often encounter mochi, a chewy rice cake that plays an important role in Japanese food culture. While many visitors recognize mochi as a sweet dessert, it actually comes in a wide variety of forms, both sweet and savory, and is especially connected to New Year traditions. In this article, […]
Osechi – A Guide to Japan’s Traditional New Year Cuisine
When visiting Japan around the New Year season, you may come across beautifully arranged boxes filled with colorful foods called Osechi. More than just a meal, Osechi is a centuries-old tradition that reflects Japanese values, wishes for the future, and deep cultural symbolism. In this article, we explore what Osechi is, why it is important, […]
Japanese New Year Traditions – Exploring Japan’s “Firsts” of the Year
When celebrating the New Year in Japan, you may notice that many customs begin with the word “Hatsu”, meaning “first.” From the first shrine visit to the first sunrise and even the first dream, these traditions reflect the Japanese idea that how you begin the year sets the tone for what follows. In this article, […]
Hatsuyume – The Meaning of Japan’s First Dream of the New Year
When celebrating the New Year in Japan, you may hear people talking about Hatsuyume, the first dream of the year. In Japanese culture, this dream is believed to carry special meaning and is often associated with good luck and future fortune. In this article, we explore what Hatsuyume is, its cultural background, and how this […]
Hatsuhinode – Experiencing Japan’s First Sunrise of the New Year
When visiting Japan during the New Year season, you may hear people talking about Hatsuhinode, the first sunrise of the year. Watching the sun rise on January 1st is more than a beautiful moment—it is a meaningful tradition that symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and good fortune. In this article, we explore what Hatsuhinode is, why […]
Hatsumode – The Japanese Tradition of the First Shrine Visit of the Year
In Japan, the New Year does not begin with fireworks or parties, but with a quiet and meaningful tradition called Hatsumode—the first visit to a shrine or temple of the year. From late night on December 31 through the first few days of January, millions of people visit shrines and temples across Japan to pray […]
How Japanese People Spend the Year-End and New Year’s Eve
In Japan, the end of the year is not just about parties or fireworks. It is a meaningful time to cleanse the past, prepare for a fresh start, and reflect quietly. From late December through New Year’s Eve, many traditions focus on renewal, gratitude, and family. If you are visiting Japan in winter, understanding these […]
Japanese School Clubs (Bukatsu) – More Than Just After-School Activities
In Japan, after-school clubs—commonly known as “bukatsu”—are an essential part of student life. These clubs play a major role in shaping discipline, teamwork, and social skills from junior high school through high school. For visitors interested in Japanese culture, bukatsu offers valuable insight into how young people grow, learn, and build relationships in Japan. What […]
Popular Sports in Japan – What Locals Love and Visitors Should Know
Sports play an important role in everyday life in Japan. From traditional competitions rooted in history to modern professional leagues followed nationwide, Japanese sports culture reflects both discipline and passion. For travelers, understanding popular sports in Japan is a great way to connect with locals and experience the country beyond sightseeing. Here are some of […]