Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Living & Seasonal
Tanabata: Japan's Star Festival of Wishes and Tradition
Meet Orihime and Hikoboshi behind Japan's Tanabata, and discover its tanzaku wishes, decorations, and…
Seasonal Japanese Flowers and Their Meanings
Explore Japan’s seasons through flowers and uncover their meanings rooted in centuries of culture…
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…
Discover The World of Shinshu Soba Noodles
Learn about Shinshu soba, Nagano’s famous buckwheat noodles, from their rich history to their…
All About Hanami: Sakura Viewing Parties
Japan’s cherry blossom viewing tradition is a celebration of spring. Explore hanami’s history and…
Japanese Spring Motifs to Know
From cherry blossoms to nightingales, discover Japan's most iconic spring motifs and their deep…
Understanding Japan’s National Treasures and Living National Treasures
Learn the meaning of Japan’s National Treasures and Living National Treasures.
Ito Ryo
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…
Japanese Table Manners: Enjoy Washoku with Ease and Confidence
Learn Japanese table manners, from handling tableware and chopsticks to dining etiquette for sushi,…
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.
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
Japanese-Style Gift Wrapping
Wrap gifts with care using Furoshiki—a reusable, beautiful cloth that adds meaning and tradition…
Ways to Dress Up Instant Ramen
Level up instant ramen with easy toppings, quick add-ins, and other fast, flavorful ideas…
Guide to Maneki Neko: Lucky Cats of Japan
Uncover the charm of Japan’s maneki neko, the beckoning cat of good fortune.
The Importance of Gift Giving in Japan
Explore the traditions, etiquette, and meaning behind Japanese gifts for every season and occasion.
Justine Sherratt “tokyopony”
Japanese Fall Shokuiku Guide
Healthy living in Japan starts with food education. Learn more about fall ingredients and…
6 Wonderful Hand-wrapped Small Gift Packages
Learn how to create six beautifully hand-wrapped Japanese gift sets, featuring teacups, chopsticks, and…
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 Ohagi? Japan’s Seasonal Sweet Rice Balls for Fall
Learn about ohagi, Japan’s beloved autumn sweet made with rice and red bean paste.
Nakazawa Hiroko