Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Culture
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…
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.