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.
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.
Fukui: A Self-Care Sanctuary Just A Train-Ride Away from Tokyo
With the post-Covid travel boom, Kyoto has become too crowded for temple-trotting and Wakayama's Koyasan is too far from a Tokyo travel base. Good thing that Fukui, Japan's ultimate power spot and zen haven, is so accessible!
Japan's Open Air Folk House Museum: Fascinating, Photogenic, Foreigner-Friendly
Historic homes and rural lifestyles are the focus of this sprawling outdoor museum near Tokyo.
Japan's Amazing DIY Superstores: From Cheap Urban Farming to Building a Home
Information Local Creators' Market
DIY has always been big in Japan. Now a number of stores cater to the creative in all of us, whether its gardening, interior renovation, crafts or even building your own house.
Why I Love Imari Ware (and Want You to Love It Too)
Arts writer Alice Gordenker shares her appreciation for the Japanese porcelain that has captivated the world for more than 400 years.
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.
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!
How to See Japan's Imperial Treasures
A little known museum in central Tokyo offers a peerless collection of Japanese art, and a fascinating glimpse into the elegant and cultured lives of Japan's Imperial Family.
Recent Non-Fiction Books About Japan That You Must Read
Looking for your next great read about Japan? Here's a selection of some of the best non-fiction books—from memoirs to culinary explorations—published in the 2020s.
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.
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.
The Mesmerizing Art of Munakata Shiko
A major retrospective looks at how "time" and "place" shaped famous 20th c. printmaker Munakata Shiko.
Life in Rural Japan: Three International Kochi Residents
More foreign nationals are finding their base in rural Japan. Here are the stories of three residents of nature-rich Kochi Prefecture.
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?
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.
An Ancient Japanese Legend Restored to View: Prince Shotoku in 8K
A new use of technology gives us better access to fragile treasures from Japan's past. See how, in a very special Tokyo museum.
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.
Tsumugi Silk: Poor Man's Fabric Turned Luxury Folkcraft
Tsumugi silk is the result of a labor-intensive artistic weaving style that is prized for its supple softness and unique designs.
Meet One of Tokyo's Coolest Neighborhoods: Meguro
Coffee culture, antiques . . . even a Pig Cafe: Tokyo's Meguro is definitely worth a train stop.
