Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Craft & Technique
What Is Wabi-Sabi? Discovering a Key Japanese Aesthetic
Explore wabi-sabi, the Japanese aesthetic of imperfection, aging, and care, and learn how to…
Guide to Japanese Pottery
Learn about the history of Japanese pottery, porcelain, stoneware, earthenware, and care tips for…
The World of Raku Ware: Form, Fire, and Wabi
Discover Raku ware, shaped by hand and fire. Explore its history and the timeless…
Iwata Mana
Guide to Japanese Knives
Learn about Japanese knives, their features, and care tips to help you choose the…
Guide to Maki-e Part 2: Production Process
Learn how maki-e art comes to life with gold, lacquer, and pearl. This guide…
Urushi Art Hariya
Guide to Maki-e Part 1: Types, Materials & Techniques
Explore the art of maki-e, Japan’s lacquerware technique using gold and silver powders.
Urushi Art Hariya
Guide to Japanese Urushi Lacquerware: A Legacy of Beauty and Craft
Discover the history, craftsmanship, and enduring beauty of Japanese urushi lacquerware.
Guide to Kanazawa Gold Leaf
Learn about Kanazawa gold leaf, how it’s made, and why Kanazawa remains the heart…
An Introduction to Japanese Ceramic Glazes
Explore the history, varieties, and beauty of Japanese ceramic glazes and how they transform…
Ito Ryo
What Is Ukiyo-e? A Look into Japan’s Iconic Woodblock Print Art
Explore the beauty of ukiyo-e, from Edo-era art history to home goods inspired by…
Guide to Edo Kiriko
Explore Edo Kiriko, Tokyo’s iconic cut glass art. Handcrafted with precision, each piece dazzles…
Nihonga: The Art of Japanese Painting
Explore the elegant world of nihonga, Japanese painting rooted in nature and tradition.
Nambu Ironware's Charm: Warmth for Body and Heart
Learn about Nambu tekki, Japanese cast ironware from Iwate and how it brings warmth…
Ito Ryo
Guide to Japanese Bamboo Crafts
Explore the history, beauty, and sustainability of Japanese bamboo crafts.
The Art of Keinen Bika: How Japanese Crafts Age Gracefully
Discover keinen bika, how Japanese crafts like ceramics and lacquerware grow more beautiful with…
Ito Ryo
The Enigmatic Science of Japanese Climbing Kilns
Enter the fiery heart of noborigama, stepped kilns where flames and ash forge ceramics…
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.
No Knife, No Cuisine: All About Japanese Kitchen Knives
Explore our guide to Japanese kitchen knives. Learn about different types, their history, and…
Ito Ryo
Swirling Elegance: The Artistic Mastery of Kutani Aochibu Style
Discover the art behind the elegant, eye-catching patterns of Kutani aochibu style.
Imperfect Beauty: Cracking the Code of Kannyu
Discover the history of kannyu, the name of the crackled finish on glazed ceramic,…
Red Flares of Beauty: Unveiling the Charms of the Clay
Reminiscent of autumn leaves or fireflies, the red spotting on gohonde pottery is from…
The Intricate Artistry of Raden, Mother-of-Pearl Inlays
In the artistic world of Japanese craftsmanship, few techniques are as mesmerizing as raden.
The Story of Lost Porcelain: A Journey Through Zentoku-ji
Learn about the history of Usuki ware, a legendary porcelain ware from Usuki City…