Traditions & Customs

Japanese New Year Traditions in Japan

2025/10/14

What Is Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year)? In Japan, New Year’s celebrations, called Oshogatsu (お正月), are the most important annual event. Unlike Western countries where December 31 is central, Japanese families focus on January 1–3, spending time with relatives, visiting shrines, and preparing symbolic food. It is a time for starting fresh, showing gratitude, and praying for health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead. Decorations for the New Year Kadomatsu (門松) Kadomatsu are bamboo and pine decorations placed at the entrance of homes or buildings. The bamboo represents growth and strength, while pine symbolizes longevity and resilience.They are meant to welcome ancestral spirits and the Shinto deities who bring blessings for the year. Shimenawa (注連縄) A sacred rope made of rice straw, shimenawa is hung on doors or gates to ward off evil spirits.Paper streamers called shide are often attached, marking the space as pure and protected. Kagami Mochi (鏡餅) Kagami mochi is a decoration made of two stacked rice cakes with a small bitter orange (daidai) on top. The round shape represents harmony, while the daidai symbolizes prosperity for future generations.Families display kagami mochi in their living rooms as an offering to the gods and later eat it in a ritual called kagami biraki in January. Food Traditions Osechi Ryori (おせち料理) Osechi ryori is a set of traditional dishes served in colorful lacquered boxes called jubako.Each dish carries symbolic meaning: Kuromame (black beans)  Good health and hard work. Sweet black soybeans simmered slowly in sugar and soy sauce. Soft, slightly sweet, and glossy in ...

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Matsuri

Japanese Festivals: A Colorful Celebration of Tradition and Togetherness

2025/10/14

Matsuri—Japanese festivals—are vibrant gatherings where communities celebrate the seasons, give thanks, and come together in joyful spirit. From the thunder of taiko drums and the glow of paper lanterns to the aroma of sizzling street food, a matsuri is less a performance than a living tradition that welcomes locals and visitors alike.   What Is a Matsuri? At its heart, a matsuri is a community celebration often connected to a shrine, a seasonal milestone, or local history. While rooted in tradition, festivals are remarkably open: streets fill with music, dancers form circles you can join, and neighborhoods proudly showcase their unique styles.   So Many Styles, So Much Energy Japan’s festivals are wonderfully diverse. You’ll see mikoshi—portable shrines—carried on shoulders through narrow streets; floats (some on wheels) rolling by to the beat of drums; raucous festivals where floats are pushed, spun, or even crashed into each other; and fiery rites where sacred objects are symbolically burned to purify and renew. Daytime can feel like a neighborhood parade—night brings a magical shift: lanterns glow, chants rise, and the crowd moves as one.   Street Food & Stalls Most matsuri feature rows of yatai (food stalls): yakisoba, takoyaki, grilled corn, shaved ice, candy apples, and more. Game stalls offer goldfish scooping or ring toss for kids. It’s casual, delicious, and social—the snack-in-one-hand, cheer-with-the-other kind of evening.   Joining the Festival Matsuri aren’t just for watching—many invite participation. You might rent a yukata in summer, learn simple dance steps, or join a chanting crowd as the procession passes. ...

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Spirituality & Shrines

Omikuji: Japanese Fortune Slips at Shrines and Temples

2025/10/17

Omikuji (おみくじ) are traditional Japanese fortune slips found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.Visitors draw them to receive guidance or predictions about different aspects of life, such as health, love, business, or travel.The word omikuji comes from kuji (lottery), reflecting the random nature of drawing a slip. History of Omikuji The origins of omikuji can be traced back to the Heian period (794–1185).Initially, they were used for decision-making at temples, often to determine important matters by divine will.Over time, omikuji became more accessible and transformed into a fortune-telling practice for ordinary people. Types of Fortunes Daikichi (大吉) – Great Blessing The best result, symbolizing excellent fortune, success, and happiness. Chūkichi (中吉) & Shōkichi (小吉) – Middle & Small Blessings Moderate luck, often meaning gradual progress or small successes. Kichi (吉) – Blessing A general good fortune, but with advice to be cautious. Suekichi (末吉) – Future Blessing Luck that will come later, after patience and effort. Kyō (凶) – Curse / Bad Luck Unfavorable fortune. However, it often comes with advice on how to overcome challenges. How to Draw an Omikuji Approach the omikuji stand at a shrine or temple. Pay a small fee (usually 100–300 yen). There are two common styles: Lottery Box Style Shake a wooden box until a numbered stick comes out, then receive the corresponding fortune slip.   Self-Service Box Style Place your coin into a donation box, and directly pick one folded paper slip from the box yourself. Read your fortune and reflect on its message. What to Do with ...

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Traditions & Customs

Ema: Japanese Wooden Prayer Plaques

2025/10/2

Ema (絵馬) are small wooden plaques sold at Shinto shrines in Japan.Visitors write their wishes or prayers on them and then hang the plaques at the shrine. The word ema literally means "picture horse"—originally, people offered horses to the gods, but over time this practice was replaced with wooden tablets. History of Ema The tradition of ema dates back to the Nara period (710–794).At first, real horses were given as offerings to deities for protection or blessings. Later, images of horses were drawn on wooden plaques instead, making the offering more symbolic and widely accessible. Today, ema can feature not only horses but also a variety of designs depending on the shrine and the type of prayer. Common Types of Ema Love and Relationships Ema with heart motifs or couples are common at shrines dedicated to love, such as Jishu Shrine in Kyoto.Visitors pray for romance, marriage, or harmony in relationships. Academic Success At shrines near universities, ema often feature designs for education.Students write their wishes for passing entrance exams or academic achievement. Health and Longevity Ema related to good health or recovery from illness are found at shrines focusing on healing deities. Business and Prosperity Some ema are decorated with coins or treasure symbols, used by people wishing for financial stability and success. Designs and Seasonal Variations Zodiac Signs: Many shrines sell ema with the year’s zodiac animal. Shrine-Specific Motifs: Some shrines have unique ema with images of their main deity. Seasonal Events: For New Year’s, special ema are released for wishes for the ...

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Traditions & Customs

Omamori: Japanese Lucky Charms and Their Meanings

2025/10/2

Omamori are traditional Japanese amulets sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.The word "omamori" comes from the verb mamoru (to protect), and these small charms are believed to provide protection and bring good fortune. They are usually made of brocade cloth, with a piece of paper or wood inside that contains prayers or blessings. Common Types of Omamori 1. Health and Safety Kenko Mamori (健康守り) : For good health and recovery from illness. Kotsu Anzen (交通安全) : Protection for drivers, cyclists, and travelers. 2. Success and Achievement Gakugyo Joju (学業成就) : Academic success, popular among students. Shobai Hanjo (商売繁盛) : Prosperity in business and financial stability. 3. Love and Relationships Enmusubi (縁結び) : For love, marriage, and strong relationships. Anzan (安産) : Safe childbirth and healthy babies. 4. Protection from Evil Yakuyoke (厄除け) : To ward off evil spirits and misfortune. Shiawase Mamori (幸せ守り) : General happiness and well-being. Colors and Designs Omamori come in a variety of colors, and each has a symbolic meaning: Red: Energy, protection, vitality White: Purity, peace, safe childbirth Gold: Wealth and prosperity Pink: Love and relationships Where to Buy Omamori Omamori are sold at almost every shrine and temple in Japan.Some of the most famous places include: Meiji Jingu (Tokyo): Wide variety of omamori for health, love, and business. Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto): Popular for academic success charms. Izumo Taisha (Shimane): Famous nationwide as the shrine for love and marriage. 💡 Price Range: Most omamori cost between 500–1,000 yen ($3–7 USD).Special or seasonal charms may be slightly more expensive. How to ...

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Food

Health Benefits of Umeboshi: The Power of Japan’s Pickled Plums

2024/10/2

Umeboshi (Japanese pickled plums) are known for their intense sourness and saltiness. When you try umeboshi for the first time, the taste can be surprising, but it pairs perfectly with rice. Truly delicious umeboshi retain the natural sweetness of the plum, with minimal saltiness, resulting in a refreshing and refined flavor. The aroma of shiso (perilla) enhances this flavor, making it an essential part of the Japanese dining table.   What is Umeboshi? Umeboshi is made by pickling Japanese plums in salt and drying them under the sun. During this process, fermentation enhances the sour flavor of the plums. Umeboshi contains citric acid and other nutrients, and has long been believed to have medicinal properties.   The First Umeboshi Experience When you taste umeboshi for the first time, you might be surprised by its extreme sourness, often causing a rush of saliva that catches you off guard. It's a unique experience—one that may leave you thinking, "What just happened?" This is the power of umeboshi. What’s even more interesting is that after this initial encounter, simply seeing an image of umeboshi can trigger that same rush of saliva. This is a classic example of conditioned reflex—once you’ve experienced it, the mere sight of umeboshi brings back the taste, and the saliva follows.   How to Make Umeboshi Selecting the Plums Start with firm, unblemished green plums. Salting the Plums The plums are pickled in salt for several days to draw out moisture. The amount of salt used is typically around 20% of the plum's weight. ...

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Things & Objects

The Beauty and Functionality of the Japanese Tea Caddy: A Traditional Storage Solution

2024/9/29

A tea caddy, or "chazutsu" in Japanese, is an essential item for storing tea leaves. It preserves the freshness and flavor of tea by protecting it from oxygen, humidity, light, and odors. In this article, we’ll explore the history, types, and craftsmanship behind tea caddies, as well as their cultural significance and tips for choosing the best one.   The History and Background of the Japanese Tea Caddy The history of the tea caddy dates back to the Edo period when the popularity of Japanese tea surged. As tea leaves are sensitive to moisture and oxygen, traditional tea caddies were created to ensure long-term storage. Early caddies were made primarily from metal, offering excellent protection. Today, Japan’s oldest metal tea caddy maker, Kaikado, continues to produce high-quality handmade tea caddies using techniques passed down through generations. Over the centuries, wooden tea caddies also became popular, known for their natural beauty and craftsmanship. Whether metal or wood, the tea caddy is more than a storage container—it represents the skill of Japanese artisans and has become an important part of Japanese tea culture.   Types of Tea Caddies and Their Characteristics Tea caddies come in different materials, each offering unique benefits for storing tea leaves. The two most popular types are metal and wooden tea caddies.   Metal Tea Caddies Materials: Typically made from tin, stainless steel, or brass. Features: Metal tea caddies are highly durable and provide excellent airtight sealing to protect tea leaves from oxidation, moisture, and light. The double-lid design found in many metal ...

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Food

Japanese Rice: A Unique Staple Loved Around the World

2024/9/24

Rice is a staple food consumed globally, but the types of rice and methods of cooking vary by country. Japanese rice, in particular, is known for its unique texture, flavor, and cultural significance. In this article, we’ll explore how Japanese rice differs from other varieties around the world, its characteristics, cooking methods, and health benefits. [st_toc]   Rice Around the World: Varieties and Differences Rice is grown and consumed in various forms worldwide. Here are some of the most common types: Long-Grain Rice (e.g., Basmati, Jasmine): Popular in South and Southeast Asia, long-grain rice is light and fluffy with separate grains. It’s often used in dishes like biryani and stir-fry. Medium-Grain Rice (e.g., Arborio, Carnaroli): Mainly used in Italian cuisine, medium-grain rice has a slightly sticky texture, making it perfect for creamy dishes like risotto. Short-Grain Rice (e.g., Japonica): This is the most common type grown and eaten in Japan. Short-grain rice is sticky and ideal for dishes like sushi or rice balls.   Unique Characteristics of Japanese Rice Japanese rice, particularly the Japonica variety, stands out from other types due to several key characteristics:   Sticky Texture Japanese rice contains high levels of amylopectin, a type of starch that gives it its distinct sticky texture. This stickiness helps the rice grains cling together, making it perfect for eating with chopsticks or shaping into rice balls or sushi.   Moisture Content When cooked, Japanese rice retains a higher moisture content, resulting in a soft, plump, and chewy texture. The balance of moisture allows each grain ...

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Food

What is Matsutake? Japan’s Most Coveted Autumn Mushroom Explained

2025/9/11

Autumn in Japan brings more than just red maple leaves—it also ushers in the season of matsutake mushrooms. Prized for their rarity, intense aroma, and cultural significance,matsutake are considered the ultimate fall delicacy in Japan. Yet for many foreigners, their strong, pine-like fragrancecan be surprising or even overwhelming. So, what exactly makes this mushroom so special—and so expensive? 1. What is Matsutake? Matsutake (Tricholoma matsutake) is a wild mushroom that grows at the base of red pine trees. Unlike farmed mushrooms such as shiitake,matsutake cannot be cultivated easily. They only thrive in very specific forest conditions,which makes them rare and difficult to find. That scarcity—plus a short harvest window—has made matsutake the ultimate symbol of Japan’s fall cuisine.   Why is it so expensive? Natural scarcity: Suitable pine forests have been declining. Short season: The harvest lasts only from September to November. Cultural value: For centuries, matsutake has been a symbol of autumn luxury in Japanese cuisine. Quality grading: Shape, size, firmness, and aroma drive prices dramatically. At peak season, prices can soar to hundreds of dollars per kilogram, especially for the first harvest.   How do Japanese people eat it? Matsutake is not about eating a large portion,but about savoring its fragrance. Common dishes include   Matsutake Dobin Mushi A classic autumn dish, matsutake is steamed in a teapot with shrimp, ginkgo nuts, and other seasonal ingredients. The aromatic broth is poured into a small cup, allowing the fragrance to shine.   Matsutake Gohan This simple but delicious dish consists of matsutake cooked with rice, letting the mushroom’s aroma ...

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culture

Why Do Japanese People Take Off Their Shoes?

2025/10/5

Understanding the Culture, Manners, and Meaning Behind This Everyday Tradition Have you ever wondered why Japanese people always remove their shoes before stepping indoors?For first-time visitors, this simple gesture might seem curious—but it carries deep cultural meaning rooted in respect, cleanliness, and harmony with nature. This article explores the story behind this unique custom, explains where and when to remove your shoes, and shares practical tips to help you follow Japanese etiquette with confidence. 🏠 The Cultural Meaning Behind Removing Shoes In Japan, cleanliness is more than a habit—it’s a reflection of one’s respect for others and for the home.Traditional Japanese houses were built from natural materials such as wood and tatami (woven straw mats), which are easily damaged by outdoor footwear. Removing shoes prevents dirt from entering and protects the delicate flooring. But more than that, it represents a symbolic act: separating the “impurities” of the outside world from the pure, sacred space of the home. This boundary is physically marked by the genkan, the entryway where shoes are removed. Crossing this threshold barefoot or in slippers means you are now part of the home’s inner, peaceful world. 👣 Where and When to Remove Your Shoes in Japan The general rule is simple: when in doubt, look at others’ feet.Still, here are the most common places where this custom is expected. 1. At Home Always remove your shoes at the genkan, placing them neatly with toes facing the door. You’ll usually be offered indoor slippers (uwabaki). Never step into the living area with outdoor ...

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NEW ENTRY

2025/10/14

Japanese New Year Traditions in Japan

What Is Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year)? In Japan, New Year’s celebrations, called Oshogatsu (お正月), are the most important annual event. Unlike Western countries where December 31 is central, Japanese families focus on January 1–3, spending time with relatives, visiting shrines, and preparing symbolic food. It is a time for starting fresh, showing gratitude, and praying for health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead. Decorations for the New Year Kadomatsu (門松) Kadomatsu are bamboo and pine decorations placed at the entrance of homes or buildings. The bamboo represents growth and strength, while pine symbolizes longevity and resilience.They are meant to welcome ancestral spirits and the Shinto deities who bring blessings for the year. Shimenawa (注連縄) A sacred rope made of rice straw, shimenawa is hung on doors or gates to ward off evil spirits.Paper streamers called shide are often attached, marking the space as pure and protected. Kagami Mochi (鏡餅) Kagami mochi is a decoration made of two stacked rice cakes with a small bitter orange (daidai) on top. The round shape represents harmony, while the daidai symbolizes prosperity for future generations.Families display kagami mochi in their living rooms as an offering to the gods and later eat it in a ritual called kagami biraki in January. Food Traditions Osechi Ryori (おせち料理) Osechi ryori is a set of traditional dishes served in colorful lacquered boxes called jubako.Each dish carries symbolic meaning: Kuromame (black beans)  Good health and hard work. Sweet black soybeans simmered slowly in sugar and soy sauce. Soft, slightly sweet, and glossy in ...

ReadMore

2025/10/14

Japanese Festivals: A Colorful Celebration of Tradition and Togetherness

Matsuri—Japanese festivals—are vibrant gatherings where communities celebrate the seasons, give thanks, and come together in joyful spirit. From the thunder of taiko drums and the glow of paper lanterns to the aroma of sizzling street food, a matsuri is less a performance than a living tradition that welcomes locals and visitors alike.   What Is a Matsuri? At its heart, a matsuri is a community celebration often connected to a shrine, a seasonal milestone, or local history. While rooted in tradition, festivals are remarkably open: streets fill with music, dancers form circles you can join, and neighborhoods proudly showcase their unique styles.   So Many Styles, So Much Energy Japan’s festivals are wonderfully diverse. You’ll see mikoshi—portable shrines—carried on shoulders through narrow streets; floats (some on wheels) rolling by to the beat of drums; raucous festivals where floats are pushed, spun, or even crashed into each other; and fiery rites where sacred objects are symbolically burned to purify and renew. Daytime can feel like a neighborhood parade—night brings a magical shift: lanterns glow, chants rise, and the crowd moves as one.   Street Food & Stalls Most matsuri feature rows of yatai (food stalls): yakisoba, takoyaki, grilled corn, shaved ice, candy apples, and more. Game stalls offer goldfish scooping or ring toss for kids. It’s casual, delicious, and social—the snack-in-one-hand, cheer-with-the-other kind of evening.   Joining the Festival Matsuri aren’t just for watching—many invite participation. You might rent a yukata in summer, learn simple dance steps, or join a chanting crowd as the procession passes. ...

ReadMore

2025/10/17

Omikuji: Japanese Fortune Slips at Shrines and Temples

Omikuji (おみくじ) are traditional Japanese fortune slips found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.Visitors draw them to receive guidance or predictions about different aspects of life, such as health, love, business, or travel.The word omikuji comes from kuji (lottery), reflecting the random nature of drawing a slip. History of Omikuji The origins of omikuji can be traced back to the Heian period (794–1185).Initially, they were used for decision-making at temples, often to determine important matters by divine will.Over time, omikuji became more accessible and transformed into a fortune-telling practice for ordinary people. Types of Fortunes Daikichi (大吉) – Great Blessing The best result, symbolizing excellent fortune, success, and happiness. Chūkichi (中吉) & Shōkichi (小吉) – Middle & Small Blessings Moderate luck, often meaning gradual progress or small successes. Kichi (吉) – Blessing A general good fortune, but with advice to be cautious. Suekichi (末吉) – Future Blessing Luck that will come later, after patience and effort. Kyō (凶) – Curse / Bad Luck Unfavorable fortune. However, it often comes with advice on how to overcome challenges. How to Draw an Omikuji Approach the omikuji stand at a shrine or temple. Pay a small fee (usually 100–300 yen). There are two common styles: Lottery Box Style Shake a wooden box until a numbered stick comes out, then receive the corresponding fortune slip.   Self-Service Box Style Place your coin into a donation box, and directly pick one folded paper slip from the box yourself. Read your fortune and reflect on its message. What to Do with ...

ReadMore

2025/10/2

Ema: Japanese Wooden Prayer Plaques

Ema (絵馬) are small wooden plaques sold at Shinto shrines in Japan.Visitors write their wishes or prayers on them and then hang the plaques at the shrine. The word ema literally means "picture horse"—originally, people offered horses to the gods, but over time this practice was replaced with wooden tablets. History of Ema The tradition of ema dates back to the Nara period (710–794).At first, real horses were given as offerings to deities for protection or blessings. Later, images of horses were drawn on wooden plaques instead, making the offering more symbolic and widely accessible. Today, ema can feature not only horses but also a variety of designs depending on the shrine and the type of prayer. Common Types of Ema Love and Relationships Ema with heart motifs or couples are common at shrines dedicated to love, such as Jishu Shrine in Kyoto.Visitors pray for romance, marriage, or harmony in relationships. Academic Success At shrines near universities, ema often feature designs for education.Students write their wishes for passing entrance exams or academic achievement. Health and Longevity Ema related to good health or recovery from illness are found at shrines focusing on healing deities. Business and Prosperity Some ema are decorated with coins or treasure symbols, used by people wishing for financial stability and success. Designs and Seasonal Variations Zodiac Signs: Many shrines sell ema with the year’s zodiac animal. Shrine-Specific Motifs: Some shrines have unique ema with images of their main deity. Seasonal Events: For New Year’s, special ema are released for wishes for the ...

ReadMore

2025/10/2

Omamori: Japanese Lucky Charms and Their Meanings

Omamori are traditional Japanese amulets sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.The word "omamori" comes from the verb mamoru (to protect), and these small charms are believed to provide protection and bring good fortune. They are usually made of brocade cloth, with a piece of paper or wood inside that contains prayers or blessings. Common Types of Omamori 1. Health and Safety Kenko Mamori (健康守り) : For good health and recovery from illness. Kotsu Anzen (交通安全) : Protection for drivers, cyclists, and travelers. 2. Success and Achievement Gakugyo Joju (学業成就) : Academic success, popular among students. Shobai Hanjo (商売繁盛) : Prosperity in business and financial stability. 3. Love and Relationships Enmusubi (縁結び) : For love, marriage, and strong relationships. Anzan (安産) : Safe childbirth and healthy babies. 4. Protection from Evil Yakuyoke (厄除け) : To ward off evil spirits and misfortune. Shiawase Mamori (幸せ守り) : General happiness and well-being. Colors and Designs Omamori come in a variety of colors, and each has a symbolic meaning: Red: Energy, protection, vitality White: Purity, peace, safe childbirth Gold: Wealth and prosperity Pink: Love and relationships Where to Buy Omamori Omamori are sold at almost every shrine and temple in Japan.Some of the most famous places include: Meiji Jingu (Tokyo): Wide variety of omamori for health, love, and business. Kiyomizu-dera (Kyoto): Popular for academic success charms. Izumo Taisha (Shimane): Famous nationwide as the shrine for love and marriage. 💡 Price Range: Most omamori cost between 500–1,000 yen ($3–7 USD).Special or seasonal charms may be slightly more expensive. How to ...

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