Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Art / Craft
The Secret Behind the Beauty of the Japanese Sword
Young swordsmiths in Kyoto revive Japanese katana-making. Discover their craft, tradition, and bold new…
Ito Ryo
A Classicist of Sometsuke: Yamamoto Choza
Kutani ware craftsman Yamamoto Choza blends traditional techniques with current trends to craft sometsuke…
Healing and Harmony: The Charm of Nakamura Toshito
Explore the story behind Nakamura Toshito's ceramic paintings, with his latest work embodying nature's…
Dobuchi Yoshiaki: Decoding the Secrets of Yohen Tenmoku
Uncover the mystery of Yohen Tenmoku, a lost ceramic art of cosmic beauty, revived…
The Enigmatic Science of Japanese Climbing Kilns
Enter the fiery heart of noborigama, stepped kilns where flames and ash forge ceramics…
The Legacy of the 14th Generation Master at Le Sanpei Kiln
At Le Sanpei Kiln, 14th-generation master Kanagae Sanbei keeps Arita ware’s traditions alive with…
Art Exhibition Guide: “Scenes with Flower Containers”
Japanese flower containers, from tea ceremony traditions to modern art, take center stage at…
The Art of Plating: Lessons from Rosanjin and Japanese Chefs
Discover how Rosanjin’s philosophy shaped Japanese plating, plus expert tips from Michelin-starred chef Nakajima…
Ito Ryo
Kyoto Chronicles: Inside the Workshops of Master Potters
Discover Kyoto’s pottery at Tosen Kiln’s vintage glazes and Touan’s revival of the rare…
Rebecca Menasché
An Interview with Kakinuma Toko: Shaping the Future of Edo Kimekomi Dolls
Discover Kakinuma Toko's approach to Edo Kimekomi dolls, blending tradition with modern design and…
The Birth of a Dragon at Tosen Kiln
Learn more about how Tosen Kiln’s artisans revived the rare kyu-gosu pigment to craft…
Shirata Ai
The Artistry of Nakazato Ichiro: Elegance Born at the Fingertips
Meet Nakazato Ichiro, whose chrysanthemum carvings continue the centuries-old Mikawachi ware legacy on white…
Radiant Reds: Japanese Tableware to Brighten Celebrations
Explore the meaning of red in Japanese tableware, from lacquerware to Edo Kiriko, adding…
Mori Toshiaki's Journey in Reimagining Bizen Ware
Learn about Bizen ware artisan Mori Toshiaki, and his unique forms, experimental firing, and…
Luxury Tokyo Hotels: Where Art Meets Tradition
Discover Tokyo hotels where art meets history. From serene gardens to cultural havens, enjoy…
Ito Ryo
Fascinating Hanazume Gifts for Your Friends and Colleagues
Explore gifts ideas with hanazume, a traditional Kutani ware painting technique used to create…
Farming Good Fortune with Auspicious Animals
Discover Japan's lucky animals and their symbolism in traditional figurines that bring good fortune…
No Ticket Required: Traditional Japanese Souvenirs
Bring Japan home with five handcrafted items, featuring iconic motifs like Mt. Fuji, cherry…
MUSUBI KILN Chado Series: A Walk through a Samurai's Path of Tea
Team Musubi experienced the uniqueness of Japanese tea ceremonies at Komaba Warakuan, a chado…
Woods Used in Traditional Japanese Crafts
Learn about Japan's finest woods, with insights on their unique properties and many uses…
What is Hanazume?
Learn about Hanazume, a Kutani ware style adorned with vivid florals and elegant gold.
Takade Eiji: A Life Etched in Wajima
Explore the life of Takade Eiji, a master of chinkin—the intricate art of carving…
Excellence Endorsed: Celebrating Japan’s Most Honored Creators
Discover the significance of being a Japanese Imperial Household purveyor, an honor held by…
Visiting Toyama's Master Craftspeople: Two Potters and a Washi Artisan
Meet three master artisans from Toyama, Japan, as they share their crafts and traditions…