Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Culture
Japanese Table Manners: Enjoy Washoku with Ease and Confidence
Learn Japanese table manners, from handling tableware and chopsticks to dining etiquette for sushi,…
Chanko Nabe: The Power Food of Sumo Wrestlers
Step into the home of sumo culture, and learn how chanko nabe became the…
Nakazawa Hiroko
How to Brew an Excellent Cup of Gyokuro Green Tea
Learn how to brew Gyokuro green tea with easy steps, ideal water temperature, and…
Celebrating a Japanese New Year
Explore Japanese New Year traditions from zodiac ornaments and kagami mochi to osechi, hatsumode,…
A Calm, Quiet Ending—the End of the Year in Japan
Explore Japan’s peaceful New Year traditions, from year-end cleaning and osechi to temple visits…
Michael Pronko
How to Decorate for the New Year Like Japan
Discover Japanese New Year decorations like shimekazari and kadomatsu, plus insights on their lucky…
All About the Japanese Zodiac Signs
Discover the Japanese zodiac's history and meanings, plus zodiac-inspired items to bring charm and…
Japanese Christmas Traditions
Learn how Japan celebrates Christmas with unique traditions, festive markets, illuminations, foods, and more.
The Charm of Onsen: Japan’s Hot Springs
Explore Japan’s onsen culture, its deep ties to traditional crafts, and learn how these…
So Different! The Food Cultures of Eastern & Western Japan
Explore the distinct food cultures of eastern and western Japan, shaped by history, climate,…
Ito Ryo
Learn about Traditional Japanese Motifs for Winter
We would like to introduce some of the winter auspicious patterns and the meaning…
Edomae Cuisine: A Guide to Tokyo-Style Sushi & Seafood
Learn about Edomae washoku, Tokyo’s original style of sushi, tempura, and unagi.
Ito Ryo
7 Tips for Thoroughly Enjoying Autumn in Japan
Explore the timeless ways people in Japan celebrate the beauty of the season.
Ito Ryo
Guide to Maneki Neko: Lucky Cats of Japan
Uncover the charm of Japan’s maneki neko, the beckoning cat of good fortune.
The Seven Flowers of Autumn in Japan
Learn the history, meanings, and ways to enjoy Japan's iconic seven flowers of autumn.
Chushu no Meigetsu: Illuminated Whispers of the Full Moon
Learn about Japan’s Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, rabbit and dango motifs, and tips for hosting…
What Is Uji Matcha? All About Japan’s Finest Green Tea
Learn what makes Uji matcha the pinnacle of Japanese green tea, from its deep…
Ito Ryo
How to Create a Tea Room Corner at Home
Transform any corner of your home into a tea room and create a calming…
Peace on a Plate: A Journey into Japanese Shojin Ryori
Shojin ryori, Japan’s traditional Buddhist cuisine, nourishes both body and spirit with mindful food…
What Exactly Is the Purpose of the Tokonoma?
Discover the tokonoma's deep cultural meaning and role in traditional hospitality.
Matcha: A Beginners Guide to Japanese Green Tea
Discover matcha’s history, health benefits, and how to prepare it. Learn how to enjoy…
Our Favorite Chrysanthemum-Inspired Tableware Picks This Fall
Shop our favorite chrysanthemum-inspired tableware with a fall feeling to bring seasonal beauty to…
Journey into the World of Bonsai in Tokyo
Join a hands-on bonsai workshop in Tokyo at Seikoen and explore the beauty of…
Unlocking the Secrets of Natto
Learn about natto with a visit to Sendai-ya, where inventive dishes reimagine this iconic…