Author: Thuy Fang

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!

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!

The "Bonsai Deepening Roots" at the Setouchi Triennale.

Japanese Art Festival: A Guide to Setouchi Trienniale 2025!

Once every three years, the peaceful islands of the Seto Inland Sea in Japan come alive with color, imagination, and creativity. This significant event is called the Setouchi Triennale. The goal of this fantastic festival is not only to show Japanese art but also to help island life grow stronger. Let’s look at the exciting highlights of the Setouchi Triennale 2025!

A name from where some people might put a kirakira name.

Kirakira Names: Can They Still Shine Bright?

Kirakira means “sparkling” or “shiny” in Japanese. Like how something shiny catches your eye, kirakira names are special because they stand out. However, the government has recently tried to limit this naming trend. Let’s explore the reason behind this action taken by the Japanese government!

Pieces of wheat gluten or fu, in a basket.

Wheat Gluten from Japan: What Is the Secret Behind Fu?

Japanese cuisine is well known for its unique ingredients that are delicious and good for health. One ingredient that plays an essential role in the traditional food culture of Japan is fu, also known as Japanese wheat gluten.

Someone pouring shochu into glass.

Shochu Time: Why Japan Loves This Drink

One of the most well-loved souvenirs people often think of from Japan is sake, a traditional alcoholic beverage. However, there is another type of alcohol that has become so popular in Japan that it now sells more than sake. That drink is shochu. To learn more about this special beverage, keep reading!

A person drumming during an eisa performance.

Okinawa Museums: Dive into Eisa and More

Okinawa Island, located in the southwest of Japan, has crystal-clear beaches and unique local specialties. Let’s look at some inspiring museums that can help you explore and enjoy all these amazing things, starting with the Eisa Museum!

An assortment of summer Japanese vegetables: tomato, eggplant, cucumber, okra.

Japanese Vegetables: Awesome Picks for Hot Days!

People often crave cool foods and drinks to beat the heat in summer. Vegetables are always one of the top ingredients and essential in summer cuisine. This season offers a wide variety of delicious and healthy vegetables. Let’s explore some of the most popular Japanese vegetables in summer dishes!