Discover Japanese Woodwork Traditions at Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum
This Kobe museum features the traditions and technology of Japanese carpentry and tool artisanship that are used in buildings from simple tea houses to complex temple designs.
The Life of Hokusai, As Seen in the Collection of a Remarkable Museum
Master of invention (and reinvention): the great Japanese artist Hokusai changed his style as often as he changed his name. Learn little-known facts about one of Japan's most well-known artists at this Shimane museum.
Shop for the Best Japanese Denim on Kojima Jeans Street
If jeans are your thing, the Japanese town of Kojima is calling. It's a major center of denim and jeans production, and Jeans Street is lined with over 30 boutiques that showcase the best of the best!
A 'New' Museum for Your Kyoto Bucket List
Near the famous bamboo forest: a new museum in Kyoto's beautiful riverside Arashiyama district has an amazing collection of Japanese paintings and is not to be missed!
10 Japanese Craft Beers You Must Know (Drink!)
Excellent craft beers are springing up from small breweries all over Japan. Choosing just ten is an impossible task, but we've given it a shot.
6 of Japan's YouTubers that Will Have You Hooked
These Japan-based Youtubers have become global phenomenons, with a spicy mix of day-in-the-life stories, travel tips, and plenty of insight into all things Japanese. Find out why they're being watched by millions of fans worldwide.
Good Reads: A Passion for Japan
In this new book, 31 foreigners who have made Japan their long-term home share their passions, from sumo to baseball, traditional festivals, martial arts, the tea ceremony, and many more.
Shimbun Nishiki-e: The Meiji-era Origins of Japan’s Lurid Tabloids
In the Meiji Era (1868--1912), some enterprising woodblock artists used their traditional skills to bring a mix of news and entertainment to the masses.
California Transplant on Mission to Save Japanese Crafts
Many traditional Japanese crafts are under threat. This man is on a mission to save them for future generations.
Japanese Sword Expert Paul Martin and his "Demon Slayer" Project
Paul Martin is the first foreigner recognized as a Japanese sword expert by the Japanese Government and the first foreigner to be appointed as a trustee for a major Japanese sword craftsman's public foundation.
My Perfect Weekend in the City of Sapporo
Delaina Miyazaki shares her unique insider perspective on how to really make the most of a weekend in her adopted hometown of Sapporo
A Fresh Fashion Twist on Vintage Kimono
A young Japan-based Australian designer is reconstructing vintage kimono into bespoke garments.
Japan's "Table" Sake Is Anything but Ordinary
Learn how to spot the treasures hidden in futsushu--the “table wine” of the sake world!
Learning to Make Japan's Most Durable Washi Paper
The Kaminosato Museum in Hitachiomiya has a gallery of products made with Nishinouchi Washi and offers workshops for visitors who want to try their hand at papermaking or learn more.
Swede Peo Ekberg is a Fair Trade Leader in Japan
Working in Japan Sustainable Development Goals
The Director of One Planet Cafe shares his insights on Fair Trade and why it's a win-win for everyone.
4 Japanese Craft Whisky Distilleries that Should Be on Your Radar
A long-time expert on Japanese alcoholic drinks introduces some unforgettable craft whiskies, and their place of origin.
Why I Love Nihonga (and Want You to Love It Too)
Nihonga is a genre of modern Japanese painting that uses natural materials and draws inspiration from nature and traditional themes in Japanese culture. Find out more, including the best museums in Japan to experience the unique beauty of nihonga.
The Perfect Weekend Tour of Fukuoka City
A long-time resident shares her knowledge of mouth-watering local food spots, great shopping and open green space in one of Japan's most fascinating regional capitals.
Meet One of Tokyo's Coolest Neighborhoods: Meguro
Coffee culture, antiques . . . even a Pig Cafe: Tokyo's Meguro is definitely worth a train stop.
Nine Treasures of Japan You NEED to See. Here’s How!
Japan classifies certain precious objects as "National Treasures." Each has so much to teach us about Japanese history and culture. How many do you already know?
