Hakone Yosegi Zaiku: World of Woodcraft
Hakone 'yosegi zaiku' is a kind of woodworking technique typically used to make puzzle boxes with elaborate opening mechanisms. Not only do they make a great gift—at the Hakone Trick Museum you can even make one of your own!
Finding Beauty in the Crowd
Tokyo is one of the world's most densely populated metropolitan cities, and one artist is finding beauty in the everyday clutter.
Kitchen-Haven Kappabashi Has More Than Knives
Previously, we've published articles about buying knives in Kappabashi, but this 'shotengai' has more on offer than just cutlery! Let's take a tour together and see a sharper side of this shopping street.
Get Ready for Summer with Sailor Moon Yukata
Experience your own 'miracle romance' in one of these Sailor Moon summer kimono sets.
Samurai Snoopy & More at Pop-Up Peanuts Shop
Japanese-style Snoopy art exhibition celebrates 50 years of Peanuts in Japan.
How to Get the Most out of Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji is the oldest temple in Tokyo, and an essential part of any visit. But it's easy to feel a little underwhelmed—like you're just scratching the surface. Here's how to make sure you get the most out of this hot tourist spot!
Giant Cat Sculptures Will Blow Your Mind!
One Japanese artist combines an obscure part of Japanese history with his iconic aesthetic to create incredible, large-scale cat sculptures.
Global Stars Shine Light on Tohoku-Made Goods
Yamagata casting is considered one of the national treasures among traditional Japanese crafts, as seen on the TV program 'Streets to Tohoku and Hokkaido, Japan.' But thanks to online shopping, you don't have to fly to Japan to own a piece of history.
Things to Do Around Hakone-Yumoto Station
Visitors to Hakone have to change trains at Hakone-Yumoto Station, meaning you always have a bit of time to kill. With temples, forest adventures, souvenir shopping and the Eva store, there's plenty to do while you wait!
5 Cheap Shopping Stops Near Famous Japan Sites
Ginza, Omotesando and Shibuya are not the only places to shop in Japan. In some Tokyo suburbs, there are places worth a stop; outside Tokyo, you may just score even better deals!
How to Shop in Japan for Vegans
Vegan Beyond Sushi: Best Eats & Treats in Japan
If you're a vegan, or have other dietary concerns, here are some 'kanji' (Chinese characters) to watch out for when shopping for food in Japan.
Beautify Your Skin with Star Wars Face Masks
These face packs transform you into 'Star Wars' heroes and villains; just the thing to re-moisturize your skin from too much time on dry Tatooine.
Katamachi: The Oldest Shopping Street in Japan
Kanazawa has attracted a vast amount of international tourists since the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen. It has lots of scenic sites including Katamachi, the oldest shopping street in Japan.
Endlessly Changing Paintings Bring Art to Life
One artist's innovative techniques bring her paintings to life on the canvas.
Finding Bargains in Kanto's Posh Neighborhoods
Japan has 'shotengai,' or shopping streets, where you can find most anything, including food, kimono, gifts, home items, novelty goods, clothes, shoes and what have you. While 'shotengai' abound in Japan, we'll introduce you the best of the best.
Sharpen Your Look With Damascus Steel Watches
Wear a unique, exquisite timepiece filled with Japanese sword tradition on your wrist.
Designers Ring in the Year of the Dog in Style
New Year's cards are an important Japanese tradition, and our friends at Spoon & Tamago have compiled some of the most stylish cards from Japanese artists around the country.
Transformed Not by Alchemy, but by Sanrio
Hit anime/manga 'Fullmetal Alchemist' characters Edward and Alphonse Elric have transformed again, but this time it’s not the result of alchemy.
Fresh Seafood at the Shiogama Morning Market
Looking for seafood so fresh it might still be moving? Look no further than the Shiogama morning market in Miyagi Prefecture.
Behold: the Ultimate Wagyu Beef Bento!
With nearly 10 pounds of premium Japanese beef at a price of US$3,000, there’s no room for any vegetables here.
