MAGAZINE
Japanese Cultural Workshops in English: Crossing Language Barriers to Discover the Heart of Japan
For many travelers visiting Japan, cultural experiences greatly deepen their impression of the country. Yet hesitation often arises when language becomes a barrier. In response, Japanese cultural workshops conducted entirely in English are now spreading nationwide. By...
Experience Shokuiku Day in Japan: Where Learning and Community Begin with a Meal
In Japan, the 19th of each month is designated as “Food Education Day,” when communities across the country host activities that deepen our understanding of food and its role in our lives. At its heart, shokuiku (food education) is about nurturing physical and mental...
From Chopstick Etiquette to Heartfelt Manners: Exploring the Spirit of Japanese Dining
In Japan, chopsticks are more than simple eating utensils—they reflect a deep cultural awareness of courtesy, mindfulness, and respect. Learning how to use chopsticks properly while traveling in Japan is not just a cultural activity; it’s a doorway into understanding...
A Day of Seasonal Traditions: Discovering Japan’s Heartbeat Through the Living Calendar
Japan is home to a rich tapestry of seasonal traditions that have been practiced for generations. From Setsubun and Hinamatsuri to Tanabata, Tsukimi, the winter solstice, and New Year’s celebrations, each event woven into the calendar reflects a deep connection with...
Step into a Terakoya Classroom: Discover Japan’s Historic Blend of Wisdom and Respect
Terakoya, often regarded as the foundation of traditional Japanese education, were grassroots schools that spread throughout Japan during the Edo to Meiji periods. These modest classrooms, often located in temples or private homes, taught not only reading, writing,...
Painting Kokeshi Dolls: Exploring Japanese Tradition and Creativity in the Palm of Your Hand
Among Japan’s many traditional crafts, few are as charming and heartfelt as the kokeshi doll. Handcrafted from wood and painted with simple yet expressive features, kokeshi have long been loved—especially in the Tohoku region—for their warmth and rustic beauty....
Play with Traditional Japanese Instruments: Discover Culture Through Sound
As you travel through Japan, the sounds you encounter can be just as moving as the sights and flavors. The chime of bells echoing through a shrine, the soft tinkling of wind chimes in the summer breeze—these are all part of Japan’s unique culture of sound. A hands-on...
Wisdom in Every Tale: Journey into Japanese Folklore Through Grandpa’s Kamishibai
Modern travel is fast-paced and information-rich—but the memories that stay with us often come from quiet, nostalgic moments, like a heartfelt conversation with a stranger. Across Japan, the simple yet captivating art of kamishibai—Japanese picture storytelling—offers...
Step Back in Time to a Japanese Classroom: A Journey to the Roots of Learning
Among the many scenes that capture the heart during a journey through Japan, one of the most quietly powerful is that of a local school—students in uniform walking together in the morning light. For many travelers, it sparks curiosity: What is education like in Japan?...
Grace and Focus in the Way of Tea: Discovering Japanese Aesthetics in Stillness
For travelers seeking quiet and meaningful experiences in Japan, the tea ceremony offers a uniquely profound encounter. More than just preparing and drinking tea, the Way of Tea is a refined art form in which every gesture carries purpose, guided by mindfulness and...
Kanji Began as Pictures: A Fun Journey into the Depth of the Japanese Language
For many people beginning their journey into the Japanese language, kanji can feel like one of the most daunting hurdles. Their complex shapes and sheer number can seem overwhelming at first. But once you learn about their origins, you’ll see that kanji are not just...
Learning Etiquette and Language at a Shinto Shrine: Discovering the Japanese Spirit in Sacred Stillness
Shinto shrines are essential places for understanding traditional Japanese culture. They are not only sacred grounds but also deeply rooted in everyday life as places of prayer and reflection. The moment one steps onto shrine grounds, the atmosphere subtly shifts—a...
Experience the Essence of Japan’s Seasons and Spirit Through Traditional Wagashi Making
Japanese food culture values not only flavor, but also beauty and a deep sense of the seasons. Among its many culinary traditions, wagashi—traditional Japanese confections—are particularly exquisite, offering a multisensory experience: they are admired with the eyes,...
Uncover the Secrets of Dashi and Discover the Soul of Japanese Cuisine in a Food Education Workshop
In Japanese cuisine, no flavor is more fundamental—or more revered—than dashi. This clear, umami-rich broth serves as the backbone of countless dishes, from miso soup and simmered vegetables to udon and chawanmushi. Participating in a hands-on workshop exploring the...
Writing ‘Arigatou’ in Calligraphy: Discovering Japanese Culture and Inner Stillness Through Travel
When traveling in Japan, many people seek more than just visiting famous sights—they want meaningful cultural experiences that leave a lasting impression. Among these, calligraphy stands out as a deeply personal and distinctly Japanese activity. The process of holding...