Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.
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Experiencing Shibori Tie-Dyeing with Suzusan: Traditional Textiles Made Modern
Discover Suzusan’s modern take on 400-year-old Arimatsu shibori through a hands-on tie-dye workshop.
Rebecca Menasché
The Craft of Kissaten: Japan’s Coffee Culture Across Time
Discover Japan’s coffee culture through kissaten traditions, hand-drip craftsmanship, and the quiet charm of…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Discover The World of Shinshu Soba Noodles
Learn about Shinshu soba, Nagano’s famous buckwheat noodles, from their rich history to their…
Japan’s Must-Visit Pottery Markets in 2026
Visit Japan’s top pottery markets in 2026. Find handcrafted tableware, meet artisans, and uncover…
All About Hanami: Sakura Viewing Parties
Japan’s cherry blossom viewing tradition is a celebration of spring. Explore hanami’s history and…
Meet the Incense Masters: Awaji Island’s Art of Healing Aroma
Discover Awaji Island’s incense heritage and learn how traditional craft shapes refined fragrances for…
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
The Allure of Snow in Japan
Uncover how snow shapes Japanese life, culture, and crafts, from winter traditions to snow-inspired…
Discovering the Treasures of a Japanese Antique Market
Step into Japan’s antique markets and enjoy a treasure hunt through centuries of pottery,…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Chanko Nabe: The Power Food of Sumo Wrestlers
Step into the home of sumo culture, and learn how chanko nabe became the…
Nakazawa Hiroko
The Charm of Onsen: Japan’s Hot Springs
Explore Japan’s onsen culture, its deep ties to traditional crafts, and learn how these…
A Japanese Crafts Journey in Ishikawa: From Gold Leaf to Kutani Ware
Journey through Ishikawa Prefecture with this guide to the region's traditional crafts, including Kutani…
So Different! The Food Cultures of Eastern & Western Japan
Explore the distinct food cultures of eastern and western Japan, shaped by history, climate,…
Ito Ryo
Travels in Tobe: Where History Meets Craftsmanship
Journey through Matsuyama and Tobe, where castles, hot springs, and pottery villages intertwine.
Peace on a Plate: A Journey into Japanese Shojin Ryori
Shojin ryori, Japan’s traditional Buddhist cuisine, nourishes both body and spirit with mindful food…
Journey into the World of Bonsai in Tokyo
Join a hands-on bonsai workshop in Tokyo at Seikoen and explore the beauty of…
Kombu: Japan’s Seaweed Marvel
Explore the world of Japanese kombu, from traditions to dashi-making tips, varieties, and the…
Guide to Kanazawa Gold Leaf
Learn about Kanazawa gold leaf, how it’s made, and why Kanazawa remains the heart…
Tokyo's Best Kakigori: Where to Eat Shaved Ice Like a Local
Discover Himitsudo, Tokyo’s first shaved ice shop, serving fluffy, hand-shaved ice topped with fresh…
Nakazawa Hiroko
Uncover Japanese Distilled Gin at Fukagawa Distillery
Explore Fukagawa Distillery, a Tokyo-based gin maker blending scientific glasswork, Japanese botanicals, and artistry.
Nakazawa Hiroko
Street Eats & Summer Beats: Your Guide to Japan’s Festival Yatai
Explore Japan’s summer festivals through yatai, vibrant food stalls serving takoyaki, kakigori, and more…
Travel Japan Through Tableware
Travel Japan through tableware this summer. Explore handcrafted pieces from Kyoto, Tokyo, Akita, and…
A Modern Tokyo Family’s Life in a Traditional Japanese House
Learn how a Tokyo family transformed a 100-year-old kominka into a modern and traditional…
Ito Ryo
Dive into the Umami Wonderland of Dashi Soup
Learn how dashi is made and explore its rich umami and history at Tokyo’s…