Author: James Lau

A large pond and cherry blossom tree in Ueno Park.

Ueno Park: Why is it Tokyo’s Cultural Center?

Few places in Tokyo combine history, culture, and nature as clearly as Ueno Park. Located in one of the city’s busiest districts, the park attracts millions of visitors each year. People come to see museums, temples, cherry blossoms, and wildlife at the zoo.

A sumi-e painting with leaves and a red dot on it.

Sumi-e in Japan: The Development of Ink Wash Painting

Sumi-e is a style of ink painting that uses black ink to create images with simple brush strokes. The name comes from the Japanese words for ink, sumi, and painting, e. Artists use brushes, ink, and paper to create landscapes, plants, animals, and calligraphy-like forms.

A woman in a red dress walking outside of a ryokan in Ginzan Onsen.

Ryokan: The History of Japan’s Traditional Inns Developed

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a unique style of hospitality. These inns feature tatami floors, futon bedding, baths, and carefully prepared meals. Today, ryokan are popular with Japanese travelers and international visitors.

A plate of anko donuts on a plate.

Anko Donuts: A Sweet Combination of Cultures

Anko donuts combine a familiar Western pastry with a classic Japanese filling. These soft, fried treats are filled with sweet red bean paste known as anko. The result is a dessert that blends two food traditions in a simple and recognizable way.

A plate of tamagoyaki.

Tamagoyaki: What’s the Secret Behind This Amazing Omelet?

Tamagoyaki is a Japanese rolled omelet commonly found in homes, bento boxes, and restaurants. Although it uses simple ingredients, the preparation method and seasoning choices can create noticeable differences in flavor and texture.

A parasol depicting Orihime and Hikoboshi.

Orihime and Hikoboshi: The Legend Behind Japan’s Tanabata Festival

Orihime and Hikoboshi are central figures in a Japanese legend connected to the Tanabata festival. Their story is linked to seasonal celebrations that happen each summer. The legend has been shared in Japan for centuries through storytelling, education, and public events.

People praying at a shrine during hatsumode.

Hatsumode: Why Is It Japan’s Most Important Tradition?

Hatsumode is the first visit to a shrine or temple in the New Year in Japan, and it is one of the country’s most important traditions. Every year, millions of people participate, demonstrating the profound connection between this custom and daily life.

A green Japanese fish bait (kebari) in a bush.

Japanese Fish Bait: The Beautiful Art of Kebari

Kebari are traditional hand-tied flies used for freshwater fishing in Japan, especially in mountain streams where small insects form the main diet of native fish. Instead of bright plastic lures, kebari use feathers, thread, and natural materials to create subtle movements in the water.