When people hear the word “Chinatown,” most people would immediately think of Yokohama. But did you know there is also a strong Chinese influence further south in Kyushu? Yes, you can find it in the heart of Nagasaki Prefecture.

While we are all familiar with cherry blossoms, did you know that there are more than 600 varieties (The Gate).  There are 10 types of cherry blossom trees that grow naturally in Japan, among them are the Kawazu cherry blossoms. The discovery of these cherry blossoms less than 70 years ago led to the creation of the famous Kawazu cherry blossom festival.

If you ever visit an Inari Shrine in Japan around February, you might notice something different from your regular visit: special offerings, unique foods, and a lot more visitors. That’s because it’s Hatsuuma (初午), one of the most important days in the Shinto calendar for Inari shrines. But what is it really all about? Let’s jump right in!

A certified Japanese night view heritage and a major event in Tochigi, the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura festival is worth adding to your winter itinerary.  According to the official tourism website for Nikko city, Yunishigawa Onsen, the location of the Kamakura festival, has a history that spans more than 800 years. With deep ties to the Taira clan, the Today, we will dive into that history as well as the origins of the famous Kamakura festival. 

Laughter, cheers, and the clinking of small wooden cups follow. That’s the joyful tradition that is Kagami Biraki (鏡開き).  It’s a ceremonial event you might see at weddings, business gatherings, sports events, and festivals.

Have you ever walked around temples and stumbled upon small, angry-looking, round figures displayed in unexpected corners? Those are Daruma dolls (だるま), lucky charms traditionally used in Japan.

Every year on January 14th, the grounds of Nenbutsu-ji Temple (念仏寺) in Nara Prefecture come alive with fire, sound, and ancient ritual during Oni Hashiri. Directly translated as “demon run,” the demons of Oni Hashiri represent ancestral spirits who return to the human world at the start of the year.

Winter is cold and often filled with snow and short days, but it is also filled with the warmth of loved ones and illuminations that light up the night.  While you can view some illuminations throughout the year, autumn and winter are the main seasons you will see them.  We all love illuminations, but does anyone know the history of illuminations in Japan?  If you’re like me and the answer to that question is ‘No’, let’s dive into the history together.