Hokusai Great Wave off Kanagawa print.

Hokusai Great Wave: The Print That Shaped Japanese Art

Hokusai’s “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” is one of the classic masterpieces of Japanese prints. As one of the first Japanese artworks to gain global fame, The Great Wave helped introduce Japanese art overseas and shaped how the world views Japan’s rich artistry. Discover the novelty behind The Great Wave and how it influenced both the Japanese and foreign art scenes. 

A gold crane origami on top of origami papers with vibrantly-patterned designs.

Origami Paper: Beautiful Mediums Behind Japanese Paper Folding

Origami, the art of paper folding, was once woven into formal ceremonies and religious rituals. People were fascinated by seeing paper come to life with each fold. However, its beauty is also thanks to the origami paper’s texture, rich color, and nature-inspired pattern. 

A couple walking on one of many famous beaches in Okinawa.

Okinawa Beaches: Five Great Tropical Escapes!

Okinawa Prefecture is a tropical paradise that is celebrated for its turquoise waters, beautiful, sandy coasts, and vibrant coral reefs. It has over 130 beaches, offering a coastal experience for every kind of traveler. These escapes range from secluded retreats to lively resorts. Today, we’ll explore five of the most captivating beaches in Okinawa!

Merchandise from the Osaka Expo 2025.

Osaka Expo 2025: A Global Showcase With Lots of Opinions

Many hoped the Expo would become a proud cultural moment for Japan and inspire visitors from around the globe. But just a few weeks in, opinions are mixed. Some are impressed, while others feel there’s room for improvement. Keep reading to learn what’s working well and what could improve.

Two Japanese musicians against a gray background: a male saxophonist and a female vocalist.

Japanese Music and the Soulful Sound of Jazz

From underground clubs to peaceful jazz cafés, jazz has shaped and been shaped by Japan’s culture for over a century. Keep reading as we take you on a journey through Japanese jazz’s rich history and unforgettable artists.

Konnyaku in a basket in three different forms: large slice, shirataki noodles small balls.

Konnyaku: The Awesome Story Behind Konjac Root

Konnyaku may not be the most famous food outside of Japan, but it has quietly shaped Japanese cooking and culture for over 1,500 years. With its gentle, chewy texture and nearly flavorless taste, konnyaku is a versatile ingredient that slides effortlessly from hotpots to desserts, adding a little bounce and a lot of health benefits.

A field in Biei town in Hokkaido during the summer .

Hokkaido: Amazing Places to Enjoy This Summer!

With endless fields of flowers, misty lakes, fresh mountain breezes, and gentle festivals, Hokkaido’s summer is a world uniquely its own. Let’s look at explore five locations worth visiting during this time of year!

A display of mizu uchiwa fans.

Mizu Uchiwa: Beautiful Japanese Fans for the Summer

Traditional Japanese fans are often more than just tools to stay cool; they’re like holding a quiet piece of Japan and its craftsmanship in your hand. Among them, mizu uchiwa stands out with its elegant look, soothing origin, and unique way of being made. Let’s take a closer look at this delightful summer treasure together!

Two samurai haniwa figures.

Haniwa Figures: Japan’s Hidden Ancient Clay Art

Haniwa is one of the oldest forms of Japanese artwork. Artists crafted these basic yet expressive designs centuries ago, and they continue to captivate people to this day. These sculptures also hold deep cultural significance, as their evolution directly shapes the origins and formative years of modern Japan.

The Maito Design Works store.

Maito Design Works and Their Amazing Natural Dyeing Kits

The brand Maito Design Works is not about fast fashion or buying more. It’s about creating beautiful, simple things that last a long time. Maito hopes people will treasure their clothes and accessories, use them often, and grow fond of them over the years. Let’s explore this lovely brand together and one of their most loved products: the Natural Dyeing Kits!