Exploring Japanese Traditions Through Folklore   

For centuries, Japanese folktales (mukashibanashi) have been shared across regions of Japan as a means of transmitting cultural values, moral lessons, and ways of thinking. Although individual stories may vary by region or generation, their central themes and guiding principles remain consistent. These narratives have played an essential role in shaping cultural identity, influencing how individuals understand community, responsibility, nature, perseverance, and the unseen world. Participants will engage with well-known Japanese folktales and examine the cultural values embedded within them. Through guided discussion and storytelling, we will consider how these narratives reflect broader Japanese perspectives on harmony, obligation, humility, resilience, and the relationship between humans and the spiritual world.