Yukie Chiri: Preserving the Soul of the Ainu Culture
Yukie Chiri, a prominent figure in the revitalization of the Ainu culture and a champion of its people.
Celebrating the Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage in Japan
Learn about the Seven Gods of Fortune and this Japanese New Year’s tradition.
Celebrating Hatsumode in Japan
Learn about the Japanese New Year’s tradition of “hatsumode”.
“Shiwasu” – the busiest month of the year
In Japan, each month has its older Japanese name, and December is called “Shiwasu (師走).” The word “shiwasu” expresses how busy people are around this time of the year.
Tori no Ichi ‘Rooster Market’
In November, Tori no ichi is held for people to purchase kumade to wish for good luck in the coming year.
Celebrating Bunka no hi in Japan
Learn about ‘Bunka no hi’, otherwise known as Culture Day in Japan.
Ritto (立冬)：beginning of winter
“Ritto”(立冬) is the day that is considered as the beginning of winter in Japan.
Momijigari: admire the autumn leaves
In autumn, the color of the leaves changes into orange, red, yellow, and brown. This is called 紅葉（koyo）, and it is one of the beautiful sceneries you can see in Japan.
A Japanese Cultural Tradition – Kouhaku Uta Gassen
One place to find good songs to learn Japanese is the cultural phenomenon of Kouhaku Uta Gassen. It is held every year on December 31st to celebrate New Year’s Eve and features the top songs from Japan from the year.
Tsukimi: Moonviewing Festival
September in Japan is a month of transition, with the weather quickly changing from scorching hot to rather pleasant, with the odd typhoon thrown in.
One traditional Japanese event held in September is Tsukimi, or “moon viewing festival”, celebrated annually to honour the autumn moon.