The lunar zodiac cycles have been an integral part of Japanese society for hundreds of years. Each animal in this 12-year loop has its own unique energy that is woven into festivals, fortunes, and daily decisions. The coming new year will mark the start of The Year of the Horse. And, as we charge into 2026, the horse (uma) will be the animal on everyone’s minds.
Before modern technology, people were often at the mercy of fate and had to rely on any other means they could find to make everyday decisions. Rokuyo is one such trusted resource.
Paper has always played a significant role in Japanese culture. It is the foundation of many of the country’s art forms and plays a vital role in numerous customs. But karakami stands out among Japanese paper types as an irreplaceable part of many traditional Japanese art forms and ceremonies. It adds its elegance to all manner of aesthetics, in crafts, ceremonies, writings, and even interior design.
Japan is an excellent destination that shines in all four seasons—spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Each season brings its own unique atmosphere and scenery. Even during the coldest and harshest time of the year, the country’s natural beauty and cultural activities always leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Yamanashi Prefecture is known as Japan’s wine capital. Located west of Tokyo, it is home to most of Japan’s wineries and produces a large share of the country’s wine. The region’s mountains, clean water, and sunny weather create ideal conditions for grape growing.
The name yamaimo (literally meaning “mountain yam”) refers to a species of Japanese yam that grows naturally in the cooler, mountainous regions of Japan.
Across the tropical rooftops and street corners of Okinawa, you’ll find fierce yet friendly-looking creatures sitting in pairs, one roaring proudly, the other calmly closing its mouth. These are shisa, Okinawa’s legendary lion-dogs, protectors that have watched over homes, temples, and entire villages for centuries.
In Nara, tradition runs as deep as its rivers. Here, a special craft stands out: the making of the matcha whisk. This delicate tool is essential for preparing matcha with precision. Each whisk reflects centuries of skill, patience, and artistry. More than a utensil, it symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of Japan’s tea ceremony.
Japanese literature has a rich history of myths, folktales, and strange, magical stories, but few writers combine this tradition with modern science fiction in English. Yukimi Ogawa does precisely that.
The Nezu Museum in Tokyo is home to one of Japan’s most varied art exhibits. Its mix of pre-modern and modern treasures is appreciated for its sheer number of pieces and staggering variety.
A Japanese spa harmonizes timeless hospitality with modern elegance and comfort. Guests can also unwind in private open-air baths overlooking majestic mountains or slip into serene lakeside waters paired with exquisite cuisine.
Let’s explore the one-of-a-kind artistry of Kurobane aizome dyeing, a craft that continues to shape the beauty of clothes in Japanese tradition!
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