Daruma's Japan

 Have you ever drawn an omikuji —those paper fortunes you find at shrines and temples in Japan, especially during New Year's? 🎍 They’re fun for a bit of luck-checking, a peek into the future, or even just for some emotional support. But what if the slip says... “凶 (Kyō)” — bad luck ? Your heart sinks. “Oh no… is this year doomed?” Don’t worry! It turns out that Kyō isn’t just bad news—it’s also full of unexpected wisdom and hidden opportunity. 🎲 How Often Does “Kyō” Actually Appear? It varies depending on the shrine or temple, but here are some rough numbers: Some places include Kyō in 10–30% of their omikuji. Others have no bad fortunes at all ! Famous temples like Senso-ji in Asakusa (Tokyo) are known for a relatively high chance of getting Kyō 😅 Some people (like me) even keep drawing until they get Daikichi —“great blessing” 💸 But here’s the surprising part: Kyō isn't just a losing ticket. 🧘‍♀️ Kyō Means “You’re at the Bottom—So There’s Nowh...

 You’ve probably seen them during your travels in Japan—tall, red gates standing at the entrance of shrines. These are called torii , and while they’re familiar sights, have you ever stopped to wonder what they really mean ? Today, let’s explore this beautiful symbol of Japan and the quiet wisdom it carries. ⛩️ A Torii Marks the Beginning of the Sacred A torii is more than just a decorative gate—it’s a boundary. It marks the transition from the human world to the realm of the gods. In modern terms, you could think of it as the “front door” to a divine home. That’s why people naturally straighten their posture when passing through, offering a small bow before entering. It’s a graceful Japanese custom that says, “I’m entering with respect.” 📜 Where Does the Word “Torii” Come From? Interestingly, no one knows the exact origin of the word torii . But here are a few popular theories: It may come from the idea of a perch for sacred birds—“tori” (bird) + “i” (to sit). ...

When people from overseas visit Japan, one thing that often catches them off guard is how natural and frequent bowing is in everyday life. You’ll see people bowing at stations, in stores, at temples, at work—it seems to happen everywhere, and between everyone. But bowing isn’t just a formality. It’s a quiet but powerful gesture packed with kindness, respect, and consideration—values deeply rooted in Japanese culture 🌼 🙇‍♀️ Bowing: A Message That Speaks Before Words Before words are spoken, we bow. It’s how we first show our heart to someone. Whether it's: “Hello” (Konnichiwa) “Thank you” (Arigatou gozaimasu) “I’m sorry” (Gomen nasai) “Please and thank you” (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu) All of these thoughts can be expressed with just one simple movement. Isn’t that a beautifully delicate and meaningful way to communicate? ✨ 🤝 Not Submission, But Alignment of Hearts At first glance, bowing may seem like putting oneself below the other. But in Japan, bowing is...

Have you ever stepped into a traditional inn, an old-style café, or a heritage shop and instantly felt your body sigh with relief? That quiet moment when you walk into a room with tatami flooring — suddenly, your shoulders drop, your heart feels a little lighter, and you think: “Ahh… I’m home.” Today, I’d love to share why tatami holds such a special place in Japanese hearts — and why it might just be what your soul needs, too. 🌾 The Scent of Tatami — Nature’s Aroma for the Mind Let’s begin with something subtle yet powerful: the smell of fresh igusa (soft rush grass). This is the main ingredient in tatami mats, and it contains natural compounds like phytoncide and vanillin — the same kinds of aromas found in forests. It’s no wonder you instinctively take a deep breath when you enter a tatami room. Your body recognizes peace before your brain even catches up 🍃 👣 A Familiar Warmth Beneath Your Feet Walking barefoot on tatami. Sitting cross-legged. Lying down for a...

When you hear the word “airport,” what do you think of? A place you pass through? Just a transit point? Well, that’s a little too bad — because some airports are destinations in themselves. Let me introduce you to Tottori Airport , affectionately known as Tottori Sand Dunes Conan Airport . Yes, that Conan — Japan’s beloved Detective Conan! 🎨 Step Into the World of Detective Conan Tottori is the hometown of Gosho Aoyama , the creator of Detective Conan (also known as Case Closed ). So naturally, the airport has transformed into a Conan-themed wonderland! From the moment you enter, you’ll spot trick art installations featuring Conan and his friends. The walls and floors are covered in optical illusions that pop to life depending on your angle — making you feel like you’ve stepped into a manga scene! People often say: “I’ve never taken so many photos at an airport before!” Every corner is Instagram-worthy . It’s more than just transportation — it’s a photo adventure!...

 Facing the Sea of Japan, where wind and sand create an ever-changing landscape, lies one of Japan’s most surprising natural wonders — the Tottori Sand Dunes . More than just a destination, this place felt like a walk for the soul. 🌬️ A Vast Canvas of Sand and Silence Located in northeastern Tottori Prefecture, the dunes stretch roughly 16 kilometers east to west , and 2 kilometers north to south — the largest in Japan. When you first see it, you might wonder, “Is this really Japan?” The golden sands rolling into the blue sea… It feels like a scene from a Middle Eastern desert — and yet, it’s unmistakably Japanese. Step onto the dunes, and you'll enter a world where stillness and freedom coexist: The sound of the wind The crunch of sand beneath your feet The deep blue of the Sea of Japan in the distance You realize: “Having nothing around can be the greatest luxury.” 🐫 Rediscover Your Inner Child with Desert Adventures If you’re feeling adventurous (and e...