JAPANESE CULTURE BLOG

Furoshiki (風呂敷)
In celebration of World Environment we’re honouring traditional furoshiki (風呂敷), reusable, square Japanese fabrics used to wrap gifts, transport goods and accessorise or decorate. We’ve talked about the humble tenugui...
Furoshiki (風呂敷)
In celebration of World Environment we’re honouring traditional furoshiki (風呂敷), reusable, square Japanese fabrics used to wrap gifts, transport goods and accessorise or decorate. We’ve talked about the humble tenugui...

Wa-rōsoku (和蝋燭)
In celebration of World Environment Day on 5 June we’re honouring wa-rōsoku (和蝋燭), or Japanese candles. In contrast to most Western-made candles, which are often made out of beeswax or...
Wa-rōsoku (和蝋燭)
In celebration of World Environment Day on 5 June we’re honouring wa-rōsoku (和蝋燭), or Japanese candles. In contrast to most Western-made candles, which are often made out of beeswax or...

Kaori (香り)
Famed for its four distinct seasons, Japan enjoys seasonal aromas as well as changing landscapes.
Kaori (香り)
Famed for its four distinct seasons, Japan enjoys seasonal aromas as well as changing landscapes.

Essence of Kyoto
It’s time to explore one of Japan’s best-loved cities during its most popular season. In spring it's an extraordinary sight but as the world has come to a halt, let...
Essence of Kyoto
It’s time to explore one of Japan’s best-loved cities during its most popular season. In spring it's an extraordinary sight but as the world has come to a halt, let...

H is for Hiragana (ひらがな)
If you’re looking to learn Japanese, hiragana is your first step. One of three main character sets within the Japanese writing system – along with katakana and kanji – hiragana...
H is for Hiragana (ひらがな)
If you’re looking to learn Japanese, hiragana is your first step. One of three main character sets within the Japanese writing system – along with katakana and kanji – hiragana...

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...