The Kirin is a mythical Japanese creature, a symbol of prosperity and good luck. It appears in times of transition, such as the birth of leaders, indicating blessings and divine protection. (See U in History / Mythology)

What would you do if you changed from a nobody into one of the most powerful people in the country, overnight? Hojo Masako 北条政子 was the wife of Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of Japan’s first shogunate. (Linfamy)

Education groups in Japan representing 23 organizations issued an urgent statement criticizing a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to gradually raise the 'teaching adjustment allowance' to 10% as part of work reform measures. The proposal was deemed 'unrealistic,' sparking opposition from educators. (News On Japan)

Discover how to create a realistic horse sketch using simple circles and ovals! ????In this video, Harumichi Shibasaki guides you step by step, showing how to use pencils, light, and shadow to bring your drawing to life. (Watercolor by Shibasaki)

A one-year-old boy tragically choked on daycare food in Sapporo, Hokkaido, on October 23rd, leading to his untimely death, daycare officials confirmed in a press conference on November 15th. (News On Japan)

Are you preparing for the TEAS exam and looking for ways to boost your science score? (News On Japan)

EF Education First, a global education organization, published this year’s English Proficiency Index on Wednesday, ranking nations worldwide. Japan’s ranking stood at 92nd among 116 countries and regions, continuing a 14-year trend of record lows. (News On Japan)

As winter approaches, boat owners know it's time to prepare their vessels for the colder months. Winterizing is essential to ensure that your boat remains in excellent condition and safe from the harsh weather that can damage components and surfaces. (News On Japan)

A new exhibition at Seifu Bunko showcases a unique collection of 60 letters by the renowned warlord Oda Nobunaga, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of his character. (News On Japan)

Using tablets for classwork has become a standard practice in schools today. In public high schools across Japan, tablets were initially provided to each student with funds allocated by the government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (News On Japan)

Japan's Finance Ministry presented a plan on November 11th during the Fiscal System Council to gradually increase the 'teacher adjustment allowance' --currently awarded as a substitute for overtime pay -- from its current 4% of monthly salary to 10% over a span of five years. (News On Japan)

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology announced that Tohoku University, initially shortlisted, has been formally designated as Japan's first 'International Outstanding Research University,' aiming to achieve world-class research capabilities. (News On Japan)

Nagasaki, a city shaped by profound historical moments, carries both tragedy and resilience in its story. Best known for the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945, Nagasaki suffered immense destruction and loss, with tens of thousands of lives lost and countless survivors impacted by radiation. (Geographics)

Rising through the ranks of the Japanese imperial court was like a walk in the park—at night. It was a rigid system designed to keep the powerful in power, leaving little room for anyone outside the elite circle. (Linfamy)

In recent years, approximately 450 schools close annually in Japan, with around 20% left unused. These unused schools face potential demolition as maintenance becomes unsustainable, prompting a response from the Ministry of Education, which has launched matching sites and events to promote new uses. (News On Japan)

The number of elementary and junior high school students in Japan who are classified as "chronically absent" has reached a record high of about 350,000, according to the Ministry of Education's latest survey. (News On Japan)

The samurai caste endured for seven centuries, from the late 12th century to the late 19th century, witnessing shifts in rulers, epochs, and values. Yet, their commitment to duty and honor remained unwavering. (News On Japan)

A Japanese government report shows the number of suicides by children and teens in Japan remains high at over 500 cases in 2023. The government is calling for a support network to prevent young people from feeling alienated. (NHK)

This episode dives into the rise and legacy of Japan's iconic A6M Mitsubishi Zero fighter, which shattered Allied assumptions of air superiority in WWII. Initially, the British and Americans underestimated Japan’s aviation capabilities, but Japan’s innovative A6M Zero quickly proved otherwise. (Kings and Generals)

Shinjuku, Japan’s largest entertainment district, is currently undergoing redevelopment. Tokyo University's Geography Club recently delved into the secrets of Shinjuku’s unique landscape and its role in shaping the district’s history. (News On Japan)