Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
sakura
Seasonal Japanese Flowers and Their Meanings
Explore Japan’s seasons through flowers and uncover their meanings rooted in centuries of culture…
Cherry Blossom Gifts to Brighten Your Spring
Cherish the fleeting charm of sakura with gifts that bring Japan’s springtime poetry into…
All About Hanami: Sakura Viewing Parties
Japan’s cherry blossom viewing tradition is a celebration of spring. Explore hanami’s history and…
Where Sakura Meets Momiji: A Fantastical Season of Elegance
Learn about unkin, a Japanese design blending sakura’s petals and momiji’s hues in art,…
Buy Yourself Flowers: Floral-covered Gift Ideas
Explore six floral Japanese gift ideas, from sakura chopsticks to camellia vases, for year-round…
Beauty Secrets of Ume and Sakura: Discover at Japanese Cosmetic Museum
We visit the Beni Museum, named after the brilliant red hue made of safflower.
Jubako Joys Under the Sakura Canopy
The black and red lacquer of Jubako bento boxes complimented the pink cherry blossoms,…
10 Cherry-picked Facts to Wow Your Blossom Buddies
Dazzle your friends with your cherry blossom knowledge with these 10 facts about sakura.
Beauty Blossoming—Japan’s Cherry Trees
Novelist Michael Pronko muses on Japan's sakura season and the crowds of people who…
Michael Pronko
Cupping Blossoms: Yunomi Teacups with a Floral Embrace
Welcome the freshness of spring with our bright floral Japanese teacups from Kokuzou Kiln…
A Sakura Tea Party in a Wave of Beauty
Find inspiration in our table setting for a sakura tea party, featuring Hasami ware…
Hanami: Picnicking under the Cherry Blossoms
See how we spent a delightful day filled with laughter and cheers amongst dancing…
The Delicate Beauty of Sakura Pink Teaware
Enjoy the gentle and calm pink hues of sakura. Pink teaware can be a…