JAPANESE CULTURE BLOG
Kokeshi (こけし)
While these days the enduring image of a Japanese kokeshi doll is beautifully painted kimono patterns and facial expressions, did you know that these wooden folk toys originally started out...
Kokeshi (こけし)
While these days the enduring image of a Japanese kokeshi doll is beautifully painted kimono patterns and facial expressions, did you know that these wooden folk toys originally started out...
Washi (和紙)
From origami and ikebana to ukiyō-e woodblock prints and shodō calligraphy, washi (“Japanese paper”) is used in many renowned arts and crafts from Japan. But it was also a practical material...
Washi (和紙)
From origami and ikebana to ukiyō-e woodblock prints and shodō calligraphy, washi (“Japanese paper”) is used in many renowned arts and crafts from Japan. But it was also a practical material...
Senbazuru（千羽鶴）
If you could have one wish, what would it be? Or, perhaps you’re hoping for a happy and healthy 2021? The ancient legend of Senbazaru (“one thousand cranes”) goes that...
Senbazuru（千羽鶴）
If you could have one wish, what would it be? Or, perhaps you’re hoping for a happy and healthy 2021? The ancient legend of Senbazaru (“one thousand cranes”) goes that...
Pen Day (ペンの日）
If you’re anything like us, early winter has us thinking about a new year, a new start and... new stationery. Maybe that’s why Pen no Hi (“Pen Day”) was celebrated in Japan yesterday! ...
Pen Day (ペンの日）
If you’re anything like us, early winter has us thinking about a new year, a new start and... new stationery. Maybe that’s why Pen no Hi (“Pen Day”) was celebrated in Japan yesterday! ...
Mizuhiki (水引)
If you’ve visited Japan, chances are you’ve seen the classic Mizuhiki knot adorning ceremonial gifts, cards and robes. An ancient Japanese artform, Mizuhiki uses colourful, tightly wound cord made from rice paper...
Mizuhiki (水引)
If you’ve visited Japan, chances are you’ve seen the classic Mizuhiki knot adorning ceremonial gifts, cards and robes. An ancient Japanese artform, Mizuhiki uses colourful, tightly wound cord made from rice paper...
The Humble Tenugui (てぬぐい）
Giftwrap, bento box cover, headband, wall art, and now mask. Don’t underestimate the humble tenugui. Staples of everyday Japanese life, tenugui are incredibly useful pieces of cotton, silk or hemp...
The Humble Tenugui (てぬぐい）
Giftwrap, bento box cover, headband, wall art, and now mask. Don’t underestimate the humble tenugui. Staples of everyday Japanese life, tenugui are incredibly useful pieces of cotton, silk or hemp...