Pioneers of Sustainable Living in Japan: The Remarkable People of Kamikatsu
Sustainable Development Goals Shikoku
The second of a series about the inspiring zero-waste Japanese town of Kamikatsu. Joy Jarman-Walsh introduces the people who want to make sustainability compatible with a good life.
Central Japan's Husband-Throwing Festival
You won't believe this wacky winter ritual where locals throw a married man down a snowy hill to his wife.
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.
Japan's Himekuri Calendars: Amazing Almanacs
Life in Japan Traditional Japan
Japan's traditional page-a-day himekuri calendars are fascinating windows into traditional ways of keeping track of everything from seasonal events to festivals and lucky days.
Have Fun Surviving Japan's Hot Summers!
Here are a few ways to stay cool and have fun while surviving the high temperatures that mark Japan's summers!
Ancient Ukiyo-e Battle Comes to Life
The "Folding Screen of Painted Sekigahara Landscapes" is welcoming visitors to Japan with an animated look at one of the nation's biggest battles.
Colorful Couture Inspired by Jomon-Era Pottery
A fashion student is representing traditional Japanese pottery with his haute couture dressed that share more than a passing resemblance to ancient Jomon design.
Celebrate Summer in Japan Like a Local: Bon Odori Dances and Fireworks Festivals
Discover the magic of summer’s fabulous Bon Odori festivals and hanabi taikai fireworks festivals!
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.
How I Learned to Wield a Samurai Sword
Spending a few hours, or even a day, at Meihodo, a complex of Edo-style buildings and gardens in the Mt. Aso caldera of Kyushu's Kumamoto Prefecture, is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in samurai culture.
Savor Local Japanese Life in Hiroshima
Attractive accommodation options in nature-rich Shobara and the port city of Onomichi make ideal bases for savoring the charms of Hiroshima prefecture at a leisurely pace while connecting with the local culture.
Annual Bean-Tossing Events Held Across Japan
In a way to welcome good fortune and drive out the bad, Setsubun festivities were held in various parts of Japan on February 2 with limited participants amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Small Spaces, Part II: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
Traditional Japan Architecture
The second of a series on innovative, space-saving methods from traditional and modern Japanese architecture that can be used in any home, regardless of size.
The Isolated Attractions of Shikoku's "Tibet"
Some dedicated people are intent on saving the small village of Kito, and the last 20 bears that live in the surrounding mountains.
Century-Old Candy Maker's Covid-Safety Sweets
Historical Shops Traditional Japan
Founded in 1901, Tohoen has survived the 1918 pandemic and is now making it through the current one offering limited-edition sweets focused on staying safe.
Naohiko Shimoda's Creative Corner Kamidana
Kamidana are miniature altars that can be found in many Japanese homes. However, architect Naohiko Shimoda came up with one that highlights the corners of rooms, blending traditional and modern aesthetics.
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.
Japan through the Eyes of the First Tourists
Historical Site Traditional Japan
Enrich your travel experience by adding travelogues from the Meiji and Taisho eras to your reading list.
Bamboo: the Secret to Takachiho’s Iconic Cuisine
The scenic valley of Takachiho in Miyazaki Prefecture is known for its bamboo cuisine. Here are three of the most popular dishes.
Fukui: New Trends Crafted from Traditional Skills
This August, LUMINE Singapore, the concept store featuring Japanese fashion and lifestyle brands, will feature the best of Fukui Prefecture’s craft products in a pop-up store commemorating the opening of its new flagship store at Raffles City.
