Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Culture
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…
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…
Japanese Otsumami: Easy Karaage Recipe & Izakaya Bites
Enjoy a night in with otsumami, classic izakaya bar bites like yakitori and pickles,…
Japan’s Traditional Sparklers: The Behind-the-Scenes Story
Discover the quiet beauty of Japan’s traditional sparklers, senko-hanabi, handheld fireworks.
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Guide to Japanese Teaware
Discover essential Japanese teaware and create a serene, meaningful tea ritual rooted in tradition.
What Is Ukiyo-e? A Look into Japan’s Iconic Woodblock Print Art
Explore the beauty of ukiyo-e, from Edo-era art history to home goods inspired by…
Street Eats & Summer Beats: Your Guide to Japan’s Festival Yatai
Explore Japan’s summer festivals through yatai, vibrant food stalls serving takoyaki, kakigori, and more…
Guide to Japanese Fans
Explore the history, design, and cultural meaning behind Japanese fans, icons of tradition, performance,…
7 Lucky Japanese Patterns
Discover eight traditional Japanese patterns that are used in kimonos, crafts, and more, plus…
A Modern Tokyo Family’s Life in a Traditional Japanese House
Learn how a Tokyo family transformed a 100-year-old kominka into a modern and traditional…
Ito Ryo
12 Japanese Lucky Charms and Their Meanings
Uncover the meanings of 12 Japanese lucky charms and discover gifts that celebrate the…
Inside Chashitsu: The Japanese Tea Room
Discover the essence of the Japanese tea room, where silence, design, and ritual create…
How Ramen Bowl Design Works: Exhibition Visit
Explore the “Art of the RAMEN Bowl” exhibit and discover how design and culture…