Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Food / Dining
What Are Kyo-Yasai? Kyoto's Most Celebrated Traditional Vegetables
Discover the story of Kyo-yasai, Kyoto’s heirloom vegetables shaped by palace culture and seasonal…
Inside Kinokuniya: Japan’s Upscale Supermarket Culture
Discover how Japanese supermarkets turn shopping into a refined experience through seasonality and thoughtful…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Dressed Omurice: Japanese Omelette Rice Recipe
Make dressed omurice at home with soft folded egg, savory chicken rice, and rich…
Akari’s Recipe: Braised Rice with Octopus and Zucchini
Try this braised rice with octopus and zucchini recipe, where tender rice absorbs rich…
Okonomiyaki Recipe: Enjoy Japan’s Savory Pancakes
Make this easy okonomiyaki recipe for making Japanese pancakes topped with rich sauce, mayo,…
All About Bamboo Shoots: Welcoming Spring with Takenoko Gohan
Learn about takenoko, Japan’s treasured spring bamboo shoot, plus a classic takenoko gohan recipe.
Discover The World of Shinshu Soba Noodles
Learn about Shinshu soba, Nagano’s famous buckwheat noodles, from their rich history to their…
Akari’s Chicken Shoyu Ramen Recipe
Make comforting chicken ramen at home with a light soy sauce broth, tender chicken,…
A Taste of Spring: Seasonal Wagashi
Discover spring wagashi, plus plates and teacups that pair beautifully to create a seasonal…
Japan’s Hidden Gem: Wakocha, the Unique Japanese Black Tea
Learn about Japanese black tea, its unique origins, and flavor diversity, plus a visit…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Akari’s Spring Donburi Recipe: Salmon Bowl with Parsley Sauce
Make Hasegawa Akari’s spring salmon donburi, a light poached salmon bowl with parsley sauce…
Stewed in Spring Light: Recipe for Japanese Nikujaga
Experience the warmth of Japanese home cooking with this nikujaga recipe, plus tops on…
How to Host a Hinamatsuri Tea Party
Celebrate Hinamatsuri with a charming tea party and pastel-hued tableware, festive Arita plates, and…
Upgrade Donabe Night: Tableware & Tools for a Better Hot Pot Dinner
Create an authentic Japanese hot pot setup with donabe essentials and table tools that…
Wagashi: Japanese Sweets and Aesthetic Tradition
Learn about traditional Japanese sweets, celebrated for their delicate beauty and seasonal designs.
A Guide to Japanese Cutting Techniques
Learn essential Japanese cutting techniques, from basic slices to advanced knife skills you can…
Best Kitchen Tools for Meal Prep
Discover beautifully crafted Japanese kitchen tools that make prep easier and more enjoyable.
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,…
Mix, Match, and Gift: A Donburi Bowl for Every Food Lover
Create a thoughtful donburi gift set by mixing bowls with chopsticks, spoons, and trays.
Mushipan Recipe: Soft & Fluffy Japanese Steamed Cakes
Make delicious mushipan with three easy recipes for banana, matcha, and sweet potato-flavored steamed…
Chanko Nabe: The Power Food of Sumo Wrestlers
Step into the home of sumo culture, and learn how chanko nabe became the…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Sukiyaki Recipe: Japanese Beef Hot Pot
Learn how to make classic Japanese sukiyaki at home with a PETARI donabe, featuring…
Akari's Recipe: Beef Ramen with Tomato and Celery
This easy ramen recipe features a rich beef broth, bright aromatics, and simple steps…