Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Culture
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…
Inside Kinokuniya: Japan’s Upscale Supermarket Culture
Discover how Japanese supermarkets turn shopping into a refined experience through seasonality and thoughtful…
Nakazawa Hiroko
What Is Wabi-Sabi? Discovering a Key Japanese Aesthetic
Explore wabi-sabi, the Japanese aesthetic of imperfection, aging, and care, and learn how to…
Koromogae: Why Japanese People Refresh Their Homes Twice a Year
Learn about koromogae, Japan’s seasonal refresh, and how to welcome summer with clothing, tableware,…
The Craft of Kissaten: Japan’s Coffee Culture Across Time
Discover Japan’s coffee culture through kissaten traditions, hand-drip craftsmanship, and the quiet charm of…
Nakazawa Hiroko
What is Mingei? All About Japanese Folk Craft
Learn about the Japanese folk craft movement, its history, characteristics, and how crafts can…
Ito Ryo
On Tango-no-Sekku, We Celebrate the Health of Our Growing Boys!
We celebrate Boy's Day on the same day as Children's Day, with fun activities…
Best Wishes for Children
Discover Japanese gifts that carry heartfelt wishes for a child’s future, symbolizing luck, growth,…
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
Sen no Rikyu’s Wabi: The Spiritual Source of the Japanese Aesthetic
Discover how Sen no Rikyu transformed the Japanese tea ceremony into a philosophy of…
Iwata Mana
Cherry Blossom Gifts to Brighten Your Spring
Cherish the fleeting charm of sakura with gifts that bring Japan’s springtime poetry into…
Japan’s Must-Visit Pottery Markets in 2026
Visit Japan’s top pottery markets in 2026. Find handcrafted tableware, meet artisans, and uncover…
All About Hanami: Sakura Viewing Parties
Japan’s cherry blossom viewing tradition is a celebration of spring. Explore hanami’s history and…
Spring’s Messenger: The Colorful Palette of Early Blooms
Welcome spring with Japan’s early blooms. Discover the beauty and meaning of sakura, mimosa,…
In Ikebana, flowers become you: Experiencing Sogetsu-style Ikebana
An inside look at Sogetsu ikebana, exploring its philosophy, techniques, and how form and…
Ito Ryo
Mindful Moments: Crafting Calm with the Five Senses
Reconnect with your five senses with Japanese tableware, incense, and decor that brings calm…
Japanese Spring Motifs to Know
From cherry blossoms to nightingales, discover Japan's most iconic spring motifs and their deep…
Mizuhiki Experience: Creating Beautiful Japanese Knot Art
Learn how to tie mizuhiki, Japan’s art of decorative knot-tying, plus how to use…
Understanding Japan’s National Treasures and Living National Treasures
Learn the meaning of Japan’s National Treasures and Living National Treasures.
Ito Ryo
Kintsugi Repair Experience: The Meaning Behind Golden Restoration
Kintsugi is often introduced as a beautiful craft, but in practice, it begins with something…
Wagashi: Japanese Sweets and Aesthetic Tradition
Learn about traditional Japanese sweets, celebrated for their delicate beauty and seasonal designs.
Valentine’s Day & White Day in Japan: Connecting Through Chocolate
Explore this guide to Japan’s Valentine’s Day and White Day traditions, including chocolate customs…
The Allure of Snow in Japan
Uncover how snow shapes Japanese life, culture, and crafts, from winter traditions to snow-inspired…
Guide to Japanese Knives
Learn about Japanese knives, their features, and care tips to help you choose the…