Japanese culture
In Japan, signing your name isn’t always done with a pen. Instead, people have long used a small personal seal called hanko (also called inkan). Even in the age of digital signatures, hanko still appears in banks, real-estate contracts, and some workplaces. Why has this tradition survived—and do you actually need one? What Is a Hanko? A hanko is a small cylindrical stamp—usually wood, resin, horn, or metal—with your name carved on the end. You press it into red ink and stamp the paper to “sign.” Unlike a handwritten signature that varies each time, a hanko leaves a consistent ...
Every September, Japan celebrates Keiro no Hi (敬老の日) — Respect for the Aged Day, a heartfelt holiday to honor grandparents and elders who have devoted their lives to family and society. It’s not only about longevity; it’s about gratitude, wisdom, and the ties that hold generations together. 🗓 When Is It? Keiro no Hi is observed on the third Monday of September. The holiday became official in 1966 and moved from September 15 to Monday in 2003 under the “Happy Monday” system to create a long weekend. In 2025, Keiro no Hi falls on September 15. 🌾 Meaning ...
Every autumn, Japan celebrates Tsukimi — the moon-viewing festival — to appreciate the beauty of the full moon and to give thanks for the year’s harvest. The tradition dates back to the Heian period (794–1185), when aristocrats would board boats to admire the moon reflected on the surface of the water or in their cups of sake.What they cherished was not the moon itself, but its reflection — a symbol of elegance and refined sensibility in Japanese culture. They composed and recited poems under the pale glow of the moon, expressing gratitude and the fleeting beauty of the season. From ...
Japan experiences four beautiful yet distinct seasons, and with each one comes a shift not only in temperature but also in lifestyle. One of the most symbolic customs of this adaptation is Koromogae (衣替え) — the traditional practice of changing wardrobes to match the season. More than just cleaning out your closet, it reflects Japan’s deep respect for nature’s rhythm and social harmony. 🌸 What Is Koromogae? Koromogae literally means “changing clothes.” It’s a long-standing Japanese custom where people put away clothes from the previous season and bring out those for the upcoming one. Historically, even schools, offices, and ...
Whenever and wherever Japanese people travel, one thing is always on their mind — souvenirs, or omiyage (お土産). In Japan, bringing back souvenirs isn’t just about buying gifts; it’s about sharing your experience and showing thoughtfulness toward others. Whether it’s for friends, family, coworkers, or neighbors, bringing home omiyage is a deeply rooted social custom. More Than a Gift — A Gesture of Connection Souvenirs represent the joy of travel and the appreciation of those waiting back home. In Japan, it’s almost unthinkable to return from a trip without omiyage. People might even feel embarrassed to come back empty-handed ...
Antique lovers will be delighted to know that Japan has a thriving market scene filled with charm and history.From small local gatherings to large monthly events, these markets offer a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s past — and maybe, a chance to find your own little treasure. A Serene Setting Beneath the Shrine Trees One of the most beautiful things about Japanese antique markets is their setting.Many are held in the precincts of shrines, where tall trees sway quietly and the air feels calm.It’s a perfect match — the sacred atmosphere of the shrine and the nostalgic charm of timeworn objects. ...
In Japan, Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday of May. It’s the same date as many countries — but the mood feels uniquely Japanese: gentle, warm, and quietly grateful. 🌸 Red Carnations Everywhere Walk through town in early May and you’ll see a wave of red. Flower shops and supermarkets fill their displays with red carnations. Ads read “お母さん、ありがとう” — “Thank you, Mom.” This custom came from the United States in the early 20th century and spread widely after World War II. Over time, it blossomed into one of Japan’s sweetest spring traditions. 🎁 Gifts Beyond Flowers ...
When you think of sushi,you probably imagine a chef shaping rice and fish with delicate hands. That image is right — but it’s only one part of Japan’s sushi story. In Japan, sushi is not only a fine dining experience.It’s also homemade, festive, and unique to each region. Let’s take a look at the different types of sushi that go beyond what you already know. Chirashi-zushi – The “Scattered” Sushi The most popular homemade sushi is called chirashi-zushi (ちらし寿司).The word chirashi means “to scatter.” A layer of vinegared rice is placed in a bowl or tray.Then it’s topped with colorful ...
If you walk through a Japanese suburb on a sunny weekend, you might spot a patch of soil surrounded by neat fences — rows of tomatoes, cucumbers, and shiso leaves quietly basking in the light. This is a kitchen garden, or katei saibai in Japanese. It’s one of the most popular hobbies in Japan, blending the calm of nature with the satisfaction of harvest. 🌱 A Little Farm in the City Many people don’t have a backyard, so they rent a small plot from a local landowner or community garden. The space is modest — often just a few ...
Japan loves to borrow words from English — but what’s funny is that many of them have taken on completely new meanings here.They sound familiar to English speakers, yet… not quite right.These unique creations are called Japanese-made English, or wasei-eigo (和製英語). Let’s look at some fun examples you might come across in everyday Japan! “Salaryman” and “Office Lady” If you meet someone who introduces himself as a salaryman, he’s simply saying he’s an office worker — someone who earns a monthly salary.And his female colleague? She’s an Office Lady, or OL for short. These words are everywhere in Japan — ...
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