Maneki Neko GAMES | Manekineko GAMES

What Is Kumihimo? The Japanese Braided Cord in Your Name.

Discover the meaning of kumihimo, the traditional Japanese braided cord featured in Your Name. Learn its history, symbolism of “musubi,” and how it connects time, fate, and people.

2026.01.11

Cultural Objects

What Is Kotodama? The Japanese Belief in the Power of Words

Discover the meaning of Kotodama, the Japanese belief that words have spiritual power. Learn its origins, myths, and how it still influences modern life.

2026.01.09

Culture

Ehomaki | A Guide to Japan’s Setsubun Sushi Tradition, Rules, and Directions

Learn what Ehomaki is and why Japanese people eat it on Setsubun. Discover its meaning, rules, origin, lucky directions, and modern variations like Eho Roll.

2026.01.07

Food

What Is Binbōgami? The Japanese Yokai of Poverty Explained

Binbōgami is a Japanese yokai known as the God of Poverty. Learn about its appearance, behavior, folklore, and why cleaning is believed to keep bad luck away.

2025.12.28

Yokai

Susuharai : Japan’s December Cleaning Tradition and Its Meaning

Discover the Japanese tradition of Susuharai, the year-end cleaning ritual that begins on December 13. Learn why people in Japan clean in December and how it connects to welcoming the New Year.

2025.12.21

Culture

Hikyaku | Japan’s Edo-Period Runners Who Delivered Messages at Incredible Speed

Learn about the Hikyaku, Japan’s Edo-period courier runners. Discover their roles, types, unique clothing, and the famous “Nanba running” technique that allowed them to run 100 km a day.

2025.12.21

Japan

Magewappa | The Beauty of Japan’s Wooden Bento Boxes

Discover magewappa, Japan’s traditional wooden lunch box. Learn its history, craftsmanship, and why it makes rice taste amazing.

2025.12.13

Cultural Objects