To honor Emperor Naruhito’s birthday on February 23 in the current Reiwa period, we take a look at the origins of this holiday, the monarchy, and how Tokyo is involved.

Due to its somewhat controversial origins, National Foundation was abolished following the post-war constitution, but it subsequently bounced back 20 years later. We wonder, does it still hold the same meaning?

Coming-of-Age Day has been saying “welcome to adulthood” officially since 1948. But how, and why? We take a look at what it means to turn 20 in Japan.

Many of us welcome the “bigger and brighter” beginnings that New Year’s Day brings, but there are also many wonderful traditions surrounding this important holiday in Japan. To commemorate this day, we explore a handful of some of the most popular.