Old Journal

Come and Discover the Charm of Japan's Izakaya Culture

With the recent relaxation of regulations under COVID-19, many people might be eager to travel abroad again. According to data released by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number...

Discovering the Charms of Japanese Whisky

In recent years, the exportation of Japanese alcoholic beverages has skyrocketed to an all time high, and records show the sales of whisky in 2021 has more than doubled compared to those in 2019. J...

Gotokuji: Tokyo’s Famous Lucky Cat Temple

In Japanese temples and shrines, various statues and objects of worship are placed in addition to the enshrined deities, and among them, there are unique and peculiar ones that cannot be found else...

Discovering Edo Kiriko with Mr. Tatsuro Hirota, President of Hirota Glass Co., Ltd (Part 1)

Sumida Ward in Tokyo has a rich history of crafts and traditional arts dating back to the Edo period (c.1603-1867). During this time, Sumida was known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans, who pr...

Tokyo's Hidden Tour: Seven Lucky Gods Pilgrimage

As entry restrictions lessen, Tokyo seems to be getting back to its usual bustle with tourists from abroad.Exploring Tokyo can be daunting thanks to the huge array of attractions and activities on ...

"Hanami" Sakura Viewing Party: Cherishing the tradition of beautiful Japanese spring

The paths and landscapes we usually walk along can suddenly turn into a different world. That is when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, heralding the arrival of spring.Japanese people have alw...

Interview with Mr. Tatsuro Hirota-President of Hirota Glass Co., Ltd (Part 2)

Hirota Glass is a Japanese company that specializes in the production of glassware. The company was founded in 1899 in Tokyo, and over the years has become known for its high-quality glass products...

An Exploratory Day Spent with Furoshiki Wrapping Cloths

Furoshiki are traditional Japanese wrapping cloths said to have been invented in the Muromachi period (1336-1573). They were primarily used by feudal lords who would wrap a change of clothes for af...

Mt. Fuji: Through The Eyes of Artists of the Past    

There is an emotion of excitement and joy when you are able to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. It may be through a narrow gap between tightly crowded buildings or during a Shinkansen ride crossing Shi...

Interview with an Artist: Takahiko Kawasoe - Kosen Kiln of Nabeshima Ware

With its translucent glaze on the blue-jade hue of celadon, a tranquil atmosphere emanates from its glossy exterior, like the calm surface of a glistening pond. The Medaka rice fish swimming leisur...