cultural traditions

Japan’s otoshidama tradition of giving kids money at New Year’s gets a social welfare upgrade

A simple envelope leads to funding children’s aid, and providing steady work for people with disabilities.

Read More

Speed sutras and taxi-riding geisha preserve Kyoto’s traditions through scorching hot weather

Even weeks of record heat won’t keep Kyoto from carrying on its cherished rituals.

Read More

Find a red envelope on the ground? Here’s why you should never pick it up

Especially for men, snatching an unassuming red envelope from the ground can lead to a shocking proposition.

Read More