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.

If you’re planning a summer trip to Japan, one of the most spectacular events you won’t want to miss is Tenjin Matsuri in Osaka. This lively festival, held every year on July 24th and 25th, is considered one of Japan’s top three festivals, alongside Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri and Tokyo’s Kanda Matsuri. It’s a wonderful celebration full of tradition, energy, and dazzling sights that truly capture the spirit of Japanese summer.

With the World Expo currently being held in Osaka, many of us are curious about expos.  What is a World Expo?  What is the purpose behind it?  With this article, I hope to answer most, if not all, of those questions.

Umi no Hi, also known as Marine Day, is celebrated annually on the third Monday of July.  As a maritime country, Japan has a deep connection with the ocean, and although the holiday itself has only been officially recognized for 20 years, its history dates back much further.

Are you a coffee fanatic with the inside scoop about where to get the best beans in Tokyo? Maybe you’re on a mission to document all the vegan options at popular Japanese chain restaurants. Or you could be a tea ceremony hobbyist with an extensive collection of Japanese pottery and table manners to wow even the most prim and proper tea ceremony instructor. If you have a story to tell within the niche of Japanese gastronomy, we want to hear from you!

Ochūgen is a custom well-known among Japanese people, but less well-known to non-Japanese.  So, let’s start with the most common question: What is Ochūgen?  Ochūgen is a mid-year gift, or a summer gift, that is given to the people you feel a sense of gratitude towards, professionally (superiors) or personally (family, friends, etc).  It is also a way to show consideration for the recipient's health for the hot summer ahead.  While you can technically give someone a gift at an