Japanese Through Stories

Sanma (Pacific saury) is a familiar autumn fish in Japan.Its Japanese name is written as 「秋刀魚」.But why does the kanji include 「刀」,the character for “sword”?Sakura and Sumire compare sanma with tachiuoand explore the meaning behind the name.

After moon viewing,Sakura looks at the leftover dangoand asks a simple question:“Why are tsukimi dango round?”Their round shape is connected to the moon,and to feelings of gratitudefor the season and the autumn harvest.A gentle story about the meaning behind tsukimi dango.

Sakura and Sumire talk about the moonafter yesterday’s moon viewing.In Japan,the patterns on the moon are often imagined as a rabbit.But does it really look like one? 🐇A gentle story about moon watching,an old stargazing memory,and how people see shapes in the moon.

Tomorrow is Jūgoya.Sakura says,“Let’s enjoy moon viewing. 😊”With dango, susuki grass,and hopes for a clear night,Sakura and Sumire look forward to this autumn tradition.

It is Autumn Ohigan in Japan.Sakura wonders:“Why do we eat ohagi during Ohigan?”A gentle story about this seasonal Japanese tradition,and the difference between ohagi and botamochi.

Tomorrow is the Autumn Equinox.Sakura wonders:“Are day and night really the same length?”A gentle conversation about the autumn equinoxand the longer nights that come with autumn in Japan.

Ohigan is coming soon.Sakura wonders:“Wasn’t Obon just recently?”“And does Ohigan happen twice a year?”A gentle conversation about Ohigan,a Japanese tradition connected to spring and autumn.

Respect for the Aged Day is coming soon.Sakura wonders:“What do we do on this day?”“And from what age is someone considered ‘elderly’?”A gentle conversation about what this Japanese holiday really celebrates.

Sakura and Sumire are checking the winning numbers for their dad’s Summer Jumbo lottery tickets.Suddenly, Sakura realizes that one of the numbers seems to match the first prize!Could they really have won? 🐾

Why does susuki feel so strongly connected with autumn in Japan? Sakura and Sumire discover how its autumn seed heads, traditional scenery, and connection with moon viewing have made susuki a familiar symbol of the season.