Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
Seasonal Living
Inside Kinokuniya: Japan’s Upscale Supermarket Culture
Discover how Japanese supermarkets turn shopping into a refined experience through seasonality and thoughtful…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Koromogae: Why Japanese People Refresh Their Homes Twice a Year
Learn about koromogae, Japan’s seasonal refresh, and how to welcome summer with clothing, tableware,…
Spring Refresh: 5 Gentle Ways to Renew Your Space
Welcome spring into your home with five simple ways to refresh your space through…
Spring of Meetings and Partings
Step into spring in Japan and experience a season shaped by gentle transitions, heartfelt…
All About Hanami: Sakura Viewing Parties
Japan’s cherry blossom viewing tradition is a celebration of spring. Explore hanami’s history and…
A Taste of Spring: Seasonal Wagashi
Discover spring wagashi, plus plates and teacups that pair beautifully to create a seasonal…
Spring’s Messenger: The Colorful Palette of Early Blooms
Welcome spring with Japan’s early blooms. Discover the beauty and meaning of sakura, mimosa,…
Japanese Spring Motifs to Know
From cherry blossoms to nightingales, discover Japan's most iconic spring motifs and their deep…
Shades of the Seasons: Gift Ideas with Spring Colors
Refresh any spring occasion with seasonally-inspired gifts. Explore delicate pinks, vibrant greens, and elegant…
Japanese Vases for Winter
Style your home with Japanese winter vases featuring camellia motifs, gold and silver details,…
A Calm, Quiet Ending—the End of the Year in Japan
Explore Japan’s peaceful New Year traditions, from year-end cleaning and osechi to temple visits…
Michael Pronko
Shades of the Seasons: Gift Ideas with Winter Colors
Explore curated winter gift ideas in soft whites, silvers, creams, and grays to add…
Japanese Christmas Traditions
Learn how Japan celebrates Christmas with unique traditions, festive markets, illuminations, foods, and more.
Family Gifts to Share Around the Table
From donabe pots to lacquerware, find heartfelt pieces for cozy meals and celebrations.
Handcrafted Japanese Items to Add to Your Holiday Gift Basket
Create a holiday gift basket with unique picks for ramen fans, matcha lovers, pet…
7 Tips for Thoroughly Enjoying Autumn in Japan
Explore the timeless ways people in Japan celebrate the beauty of the season.
Ito Ryo
Japanese Vases for Autumn
Bring the colors of fall into your home with Japanese flower vases that add…
Lacquerware for Holiday Gatherings: From Thanksgiving to New Year
Enhance your holiday table with Japanese lacquerware. These pieces bring tradition to every gathering.
Japanese Fall Shokuiku Guide
Healthy living in Japan starts with food education. Learn more about fall ingredients and…
Refresh Your Office for Fall with Japanese Crafts
From bento boxes and mugs to desk décor, discover easy tips to add warmth…
Our Favorite Chrysanthemum-Inspired Tableware Picks This Fall
Shop our favorite chrysanthemum-inspired tableware with a fall feeling to bring seasonal beauty to…
5 Motifs That Feel Like Japanese Summer
In this issue, we introduce five motifs that make you feel the summer in…
Summer’s Palette: The Radiant Beauty of Flowers
Learn about Japan's vibrant summer flowers, and how each type brings a unique charm,…
Shades of the Seasons: Gift Ideas with Summer Colors
Find the perfect summer gift, featuring vibrant tableware, elegant glassware, charming lucky cat figures,…