tradition

HISTORY

Banei Racing: Hokkaido’s Stubborn Settler Sport of Strength and Spirit

Hokkaido's fascinating Banei Racing, where massive draft horses pull weighted sleighs up slopes, is an intriguing remnant of a colonial history.

ENTERTAINMENT

Kwaidan: A Filmic Venture into Uncanny Japan

Eerie and beautiful, Kwaidan is the perfect introduction to the classic ghost stories of Japan. Further revelations await those who look deeper…

LIVING IN JAPAN

Appreciating the Moon in Japan, Land of the Rising Sun

Although Japan is the land of the rising sun, with its indigenous religion centering around the sun goddess, we cannot overlook the…

FEATURED

Tsukimi (月見), The Season of Moon Viewing

Tsukimi, the season of moon viewing, starts next week in Japan. Learn more about this day's origins, how to make Tsukimi Dumplings,…

CULTURE

Hajichi: The Banned Traditional Tattoos of Okinawa

These tattoos, native to the Ryukyuan people, were once banned from being practiced. Now, they're making a comeback.

FEATURED

Benkei: Was Japan’s Warrior Monk Real?

Benkei was a Warrior Monk whose life was filled with rich history and folklore. Or at least, that's how the tale is…

CULTURE

Rokuyo: Japan’s Lunar Calendar Tells You When To Marry

Japan's lunar calendar traditionally influences how people select their wedding days. But how many still abide by it?

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

As COVID-19 Spikes, Otoshidama Go Cashless in Japan

Thanks to COVID-19, the Japanese custom of otoshidama is going the cashless route this year - and some people couldn't be more…