Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Culture
Arita Porcelain: At Home and Across the Sea
A journey through the Kyushu Ceramic Museum in Saga, tracing Arita porcelain from Edo…
Umehara Haruka
The Two Types of Kaiseki Cuisine
Same word, two meals: discover how cha-kaiseki and kaiseki diverge in purpose, sequence, and…
The Subtle Presence of the Number Five in Japanese Culture
Explore how the number five shapes Japanese cuisine, tea gatherings, and tableware traditions still…
Exploring the Seasonal Herbs of Japanese Cuisine
Discover shiso, myoga, kinome, and seri, the seasonal herbs that quietly shape the flavors…
The Art of Connection with Mizuhiki Artist Omoda Kyoko
Discover how mizuhiki artist Omoda Kyoko finds meaning, mindfulness, and connection in the craft…
Japan’s First Tea Harvest and the Hand-Picked Tea Experience
Hand-pick first-harvest leaves at a Kanagawa tea farm and discover what makes shincha, Japan's…
Rebecca Menasché
Unagi: The Eel Meals That Are Japan’s Summer Specialty
Learn why unagi is Japan's essential summer meal, from the Doyo no Ushi no…
The Enduring Beauty of Fine Imari Porcelain
Discover the origins and traditions of Imari porcelain, from Kakiemon to Nabeshima ware, and…
Obon: Japan’s Summer Festival of Remembrance
More than a seasonal festival, Obon is a time when families across Japan honor…
Tanabata: Japan's Star Festival of Wishes and Tradition
Meet Orihime and Hikoboshi behind Japan's Tanabata, and discover its tanzaku wishes, decorations, and…
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,…