Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Art / Craft
Meeting the Master of Raised Maki-e: Where Gold and Artistry Shine as Wajima Lacquerware
Discover Yamanoshita Akihiro’s raised maki-e lacquer art, crafted with precision, skill, and deep Wajima…
What Is Kintsugi? A Guide to Japan’s Art of Gold Repair
Learn about kintsugi, Japan’s art of gold repair, from its origins to wabi-sabi philosophy…
An Introduction to Japanese Ceramic Shaping Techniques
Learn about the types of Japanese ceramic shaping techniques, and see how clay, touch,…
Iwata Mana
What Is Wabi-Sabi? Discovering a Key Japanese Aesthetic
Explore wabi-sabi, the Japanese aesthetic of imperfection, aging, and care, and learn how to…
Otsuki Yosuke’s Art of Glass: Layering Colors, Engraving Memories
Step into Otsuki Yosuke’s world of multi-layered glass, where color, memory, and time are…
Nakada Hiroshi: Shaping Nature in White Porcelain
Enter the world of Nakada Hiroshi, where budding forms and pearl-luster surfaces create a…
Experiencing Shibori Tie-Dyeing with Suzusan: Traditional Textiles Made Modern
Discover Suzusan’s modern take on 400-year-old Arimatsu shibori through a hands-on tie-dye workshop.
Rebecca Menasché
Meet the Tool Specialists Who Support Seto Ware Artisans
Go behind the scenes in Seto and meet the toolmakers and experts whose skills…
What is Mingei? All About Japanese Folk Craft
Learn about the Japanese folk craft movement, its history, characteristics, and how crafts can…
Ito Ryo
The Flower Pots Behind Japan's Garden Culture
From Edo-era street gardening to modern balconies, explore how flower pots shaped Japan’s unique…
Ito Ryo
Unearthing Kusatsu Ware: Plant Pots Inspired by Nature & Tradition
Discover how Yamamoto Kazuma revives 1,400 years of Kusatsu ware through plant pots crafted…
Spring Refresh: 5 Gentle Ways to Renew Your Space
Welcome spring into your home with five simple ways to refresh your space through…
Buyer’s Travelog: Recycling Bizen Ware into Plant Pots
Handcrafted in Okayama, these Bizen ware plant pots pair recycled clay with forms made…
Shirata Ai
Six Sustainable Japanese Craft Makers
Discover six Japanese craft makers embracing sustainable practices for mindful everyday living.
Guide to Japanese Pottery
Learn about the history of Japanese pottery, porcelain, stoneware, earthenware, and care tips for…
Interview With An Artist: Ohigashi Alyne’s Nature-Inspired Tobe Ware
Step into the world of Ohigashi Alyne and discover how nature, family, and memory…
Japan’s Must-Visit Pottery Markets in 2026
Visit Japan’s top pottery markets in 2026. Find handcrafted tableware, meet artisans, and uncover…
Meet the Incense Masters: Awaji Island’s Art of Healing Aroma
Discover Awaji Island’s incense heritage and learn how traditional craft shapes refined fragrances for…
Taruta Hiroshi: Glowing Lines Carved in Celadon
Discover Seto ware artist Taruta Hiroshi’s celadon vessels, where carved porcelain lines glow with…
Rebecca Menasché
What Are Oryoki Bowls? The Meditative Zen Tableware
Learn more about oryoki bowls, traditional Zen nesting tableware rooted in Buddhist practice.
Wakunami Madoka: In Dialogue with Jomon Pottery
Meet ceramic artist Wakunami Madoka, whose hand-shaped works reinterpret ancient Jomon pottery.
Mizuhiki Experience: Creating Beautiful Japanese Knot Art
Learn how to tie mizuhiki, Japan’s art of decorative knot-tying, plus how to use…
From Arita to Your Table: The Enduring Legacy of Gen-emon Kiln
Visit Gen-emon Kiln in Arita and learn in our interview how bold, hand-painted blue…
Animal Motif Must-Haves: Treat Yourself or Gift a Friend!
Who doesn't adore the charm of animal motifs, especially when paired with exquisite craftsmanship?