Sending cards to family and friends towards the end of the year is something very common. In Japan as well, there’s the custom of sending Japanese New Year Cards, better known as “nengajo” (年賀状). Now, if you...
Category - Culture
Learn about Japanese culture such as Japanese holidays, festivals, traditions and etiquette.
Omiyage: The Culture of Souvenirs in Japan
Maybe you’ve already heard the word “omiyage” before. Maybe you also know that it...
Golden Week in Japan And Why You Should Avoid It
I’m sure you’ve heard of the Golden Week in Japan before. Today I want to explain what...
A Quick Guide: Gift Giving in Japan – Dos and Don’ts
With a rich culture, history and several ancient legends, there are plenty of superstitions to be...
Shichi-go-san: 7-5-3 Day on November 15th
Today (November 15) is a special day in Japan called “7-5-3 Day” or “Shichi-go...
Tanabata Festival aka The Star Festival
Today is July 7th in Japan and that’s when the calendar tells us it’s...
Hina Matsuri (The Doll’s Festival)
Not only today, but every year on March 3rd Japan celebrates the so-called “Hina...
Shogatsu: Japanese New Year’s Day
After the busy time in December (cleaning, cooking, writing New Year cards) and then finally...
Omisoka: Japanese New Year’s Eve
Around this time of the year Japanese people are busy with various things. Christmas is not what...
Himono Onna – The Dried Fish Woman
I’m pretty sure that most of you know what a dried fish is, right? I also think you’ve...
4 Reasons Why Valentine’s Day in Japan is Different!
On February 14th we celebrate Valentine’s Day – also here in Japan! However...