Every year on January 7, households across Japan enjoy a warm bowl of Nanakusa-gayu (七草がゆ, seven herb rice porridge). This simple, soothing dish is part of a long-standing tradition meant to bring good health for the year ahead. Although the ingredients are humble, the meaning behind […]
New Year's is one of the most exciting days of the year. Each country has its own unique way of celebrating, shaped by its religion, culture, and traditions. Some even continue celebrating in the days following New Year’s Eve, as is the case in Japan. New […]
The New Year has officially begun! January is a month of celebration, new resolutions, and promises for ourselves. And for that, the first month of the year does not lack in entertainment and cultural events to start the year on a fine note, especially in Japan's […]
January transforms Kyoto into a city of serene beauty and deep cultural significance, marking the transition from the cold embrace of the winter solstice to the new year. From joining the masses for Hatsumode at iconic shrines to seeking out mesmerizing art, this month offers unique […]
The Daruma doll is a well-known Japanese symbol of resilience and good fortune. Inspired by Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism, these round, hollow dolls are rich in symbolism and often gifted as a gesture of encouragement. Beyond their role as good luck charms, Daruma dolls […]
Happy New Year! As we step into the Year of the Snake, let’s take a moment to reflect on its symbolism. In the Chinese zodiac, the snake is often associated with wisdom, intuition, and transformation. It’s a time to shed the old, like snake skin, and […]
What is Hastuyume? Simply put, hatsuyume is the first dream of the new year, believed to occur after December 31st and on January 1st, which can be a message that one will have luck within the upcoming year. This tradition has been around since the early […]
Ah, New Year in Japan – a time for renewal, reflection, and of course, decoration! It is the time when you stroll through the streets of Japan, and you see all kinds of cool traditional decorations, then you get curious, “What are they for?” Fret not, […]
