Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
craft techniques
Surface Decorations in Ceramics
While glaze gives vessels their color and atmosphere, surface decoration brings texture and structure…
An Introduction to Japanese Ceramic Shaping Techniques
Learn about the types of Japanese ceramic shaping techniques, and see how clay, touch,…
Iwata Mana
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…
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.
Mizuhiki Experience: Creating Beautiful Japanese Knot Art
Learn how to tie mizuhiki, Japan’s art of decorative knot-tying, plus how to use…
Workshop Visit: Behind the Scenes at Baizan Kiln
Step inside Baizan Kiln, makers of Tobe ware with bold blue arabesques. See how…
Visiting Kaitakudo Art For Hanging Scrolls
Discover the intricate process behind Kaitakudo Art's hanging scrolls, where every step is done…
An Introduction to Japanese Ceramic Glazes
Explore the history, varieties, and beauty of Japanese ceramic glazes and how they transform…
Ito Ryo
Washi Paper: A Slice of Nature in Your Hand
A slice of forest and light—washi brings warmth, texture, and tradition into daily life…
Michael Pronko
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
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…
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
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 Art of Community in Higashi-Iwase
Discover Higashi-Iwase’s revival led by Masuda Ryuichiro, turning a once-declining town into a vibrant…
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.
The Crafting Secrets of Chawanmushi Bowls
Discover Tasei Kiln's chawanmushi bowls, their seasonal designs, expert craftsmanship, and role in Japanese…
From Tree to Treasure: Cherry Bark Craft From YATSUYANAGI
Learn about kabazaiku, or cherry bark craftsmanship, at Yatsuyanagi, where bark transforms into handcrafted…
Seigado—The Radiant Beauty of Copper
Explore Seigado's studio and discover traditional hand-hammered copperware, with insights on production, design, and…
Kosen Kiln's Workshop: A Magical Mystery Tour of Nabeshima Celadon
Explore the traditions and legacy of Nabeshima ware through our interview with Kosen Kiln's…