Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Living & Seasonal
Exploring Japan’s Crab Cuisine from Coast to Table
Discover Japan's crab cuisine, from snow and king crab to iconic dishes and winter's…
Welcoming Good Fortune via the Japanese Entryway
Explore the cultural role, etiquette, and design of the Japanese genkan, plus tips to…
A Puzzling Beauty: Japanese Rock Gardens
Explore the beauty of Japanese rock gardens, their history, unique design, and how they…
Michael Pronko
Your First Taste of Ozoni: A Delicious New Year’s Tradition
Learn about ozoni, a Japanese New Year’s soup brimming with mochi and seasonal veggies…
Unlock the Charm of Soba: How to Enjoy Japan’s Beloved Noodle Dish
Discover soba's history and cultural significance, plus suggestions on the perfect tableware for this…
The Invention of Mochi Ice Cream
Explore the origins of mochi ice cream, a blend of creamy ice cream and…
How to Wrap a Present Like a Japanese Gifting Pro
Master the art of Japanese gift wrapping with our step-by-step guide, with tips on…
Rebecca Menasché
Konbini Cuisine: Your Ultimate Guide to Japan's Convenience Store Foods
From onigiri to oden, explore Japan's convenience store favorites at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson.
Oseibo: A Reflection of Gratitude in Japan's End-of-Year Gift-Giving Tradition
Explore oseibo, Japan’s end-of-year tradition of gift-giving. Explore its origins, meaning, and tips for…
Hirata Paku Kayoko
For Everything There is a Season: Japan’s Solar Terms
Learn about Japan’s 24 solar terms, nijushi-sekki, that reveal the subtle seasonal changes beyond…
What Is the Meaning of Animals Painted on Japanese Tableware?
Discover the symbolism of animal motifs in Japanese tableware, and how they reflect seasons,…
Making a Mark: What Are Goshuin?
Discover the deep meanings and history behind Goshuin, Japan's traditional temple stamps, and how…
Zesty and Spicy: The Magic of Yuzu Kosho in Japanese Cuisine
Discover the bold flavors of yuzu kosho, a Japanese condiment blending zesty yuzu citrus…
Zhao Minyi
Ramen Know-How: Three Essential Points to Enjoy It Even More
Learn three easy ways to fully enjoy ramen, from exploring flavors to expert eating…
Ito Ryo
Purr-fectly Curated: 8 Intriguing Insights about Cats in Japan
Discover eight fascinating facts about cats in Japan, from their role in Edo art…
What is Nerikiri? All About Japan's Traditional Confection
Discover fall wagashi that embody the flavors of autumn in Japan. Learn about nerikiri,…
The Nutritious Magic of Japanese Mushrooms
Explore the rich flavors and health benefits of delicious Japanese mushrooms like shiitake, matsutake,…
Onigiri Facts that Even Native Japanese People Don’t Know
Uncover surprising facts about onigiri, including insights from the owner of Onigiri Bongo, a…
Ito Ryo
Shine Muscat: The Sweet Jewel of Japanese Grapes
Learn about Japan's Shine Muscat grape, famous for its juicy, seedless perfection, expensive price,…
Tracing the History of Tuna in Japan
Trace the history of tuna in Japan and discover how it became one of…
Ito Ryo
The Flavor of Ages: Japanese Pickles
Learn all about Japanese pickles with our guide to tsukemono, covering pickling methods, common…
Slurping Summer: Noodle Dishes Loved in Japan
Stay cool this summer with Japan's favorite cold noodles. Learn about refreshing somen, soba,…
Understanding the Differences: Kimono vs Yukata
Learn about the unique roles of kimono and yukata in Japanese culture, their history,…
Zhao Minyi
5 Best Donburi Menus
Explore the delicious versatility of donburi with our top 5 menus. Discover classics like…