As we step into autumn and the weather gets a little chillier, it’s officially nabe season.  What is nabe?  Nabe refers to hot pot dishes prepared in a pot that is also called a nabe.

As summer fades and cool breezes begin to sweep across Japan, conversations often turn to Jūgoya (十五夜), also called Tsukimi or Otsukimi, meaning “moon-viewing.”

Every year in Japan, there are two very special days when day and night are perfectly equal in length: the spring equinox in March and the autumn equinox in September. Both of these days are public holidays, but they’re also tied to a Buddhist tradition called O-Higan (お彼岸).

Every September, Japan welcomes one of the most meaningful seasonal markers of the year: the Autumn Equinox (Shūbun no Hi, 秋分の日). Usually falling on September 22 or 23, this holiday officially ushers in autumn. On this day, the sun rises directly in the east and sets directly in the west, with day and night balanced in perfect harmony. 

As a part of the Happy Monday system, it is currently celebrated on the third Monday of September.  Its 2025 date of September 15th aligns perfectly with its 1947 predecessor.  Today, as we celebrate Respect for the Aged Day, let’s delve into its history and the issues Japan’s elderly population faces today.

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.

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.