Author: Thuy Fang

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!

Gilyak Amagasaki, a street performer from Hokkaido. He has long black hair and is wearing all red.

Hokkaido Street Performers and Their Legends

Street performers often use their artistic talents, such as singing, dancing, or doing circus tricks, to attract an audience and earn tips to make a living. However, many street performers in Japan are true artists, publicly recognized and respected.

A lighthouse near the Yaeyama Islands, an Okinawan territory.

Okinawan Islands: Why You Should Visit Yaeyama!

While the rest of the country is famous for its high-speed trains and vibrant cities, the Yaeyama Islands move at the rhythm of waves and birdsong. This area will amaze you with its breathtaking natural beauty, blending majestic simplicity with the ancient cultural heritage. Keep reading to learn more about this Okinawan treasure!