When you think of summer in Japan, imagine a season full of energy, tradition, and just a little bit of sweat! Japanese summers are known for their intense heat and humidity, but they also bring the longest school holiday of the year, colorful festivals, beach trips, and plenty of family fun.

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security.

Humanitarian efforts.  Humanitarian intervention.  In some capacity, we’ve heard the word ‘humanitarian’, especially in times of conflict or disaster.  It’s common for people to become desensitized when they’re constantly exposed to something.  Well, allow me to break you out of that fog as I reintroduce you to the thing that resides within us all: humanity.  

Obon is a cherished time when families reunite to celebrate the memory of their ancestors. It’s believed that the spirits of loved ones return to visit during this period. Think Halloween meets Día de los Muertos—but with a very Japanese touch of gratitude, family, and celebration.

Today, as we celebrate Mountain Day, let’s look at some statistics about Japan’s geography.  According to the Ministry of the Environment: Government of Japan, forests cover 67% of Japan’s total land area, and mountains and hills cover 70%.  70% is a lot of space to be covered by mountains. 

Japan is once again ready to host the world—this time with a theme focused on shaping a human-centered, sustainable future. Expo 2025 takes place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, on Yumeshima Island, a man-made island in Osaka Bay. This marks Japan’s third time hosting a World Expo.

Every summer in Japan, something truly magical happens along the rivers and coasts — thousands of glowing lanterns gently float on the water, creating a peaceful, dreamlike scene. This beautiful tradition is called Toro Nagashi, the Japanese Floating Lantern Festival, a heartfelt ceremony honoring ancestors, praying for peace, and celebrating life itself.

Making sure that no child is left behind, Hikari Naito, joined Chance for Children because of her own childhood experiences! We at Giving Tuesday Japan had the exclusive opportunity to interview her about her mission, what inspired her to join Chance For Children, and how we all can support this amazing cause.