The Japanese Yuzu Bath: Celebrating The Winter Solstice
Take a hot bath filled with the citrusy yuzu fruit 🛀🍋
The Reasons Why Japanese Bow
In Japan, bowing is so engrained in our communication style. We bow even when we are on the phone and the other person cannot see us!
Shiwasu: The Perfect Name for the Month of December
In Japan, December is called "the month so busy even monks have to be running around"! Isn't that just a perfect name?
The Best Dish Sponges and Keeping Them Clean
How often do you usually replace your dish sponge? I looked it up on Google. I found out that Martha Stewart wants you to change it every two weeks. She...
How to Care for Your Shuro Broom—Tips for Longevity
The shuro broom is a timeless cleaning tool cherished in Japan and increasingly popular around the world. As fewer artisans master the craft of making them, these brooms have become...
Bamboo Chopsticks — How To Make Them Last Longer
Bamboo chopsticks are an eco-friendly alternative to plastic ones. They’re also very durable. But they do have one drawback: they don't last as long as their plastic counterparts. So what...
Tsukimi 2022
Hello there! What is the weather forecast in your area for tonight? I hope we have a clear night sky. Every fall in Japan, Tsukimi (Mid-Autumn Moon Viewing Festival) is celebrated under...
Weekend Fun with Japanese Indigo Dyeing
Now that August is behind us, it’s time to welcome the beginning of the fall season. At our home, kids are back to school, and we returned to the usual...
Wabi Sabi and the Art of Kintsugi
What's Wabi Sabi? It's the fundamental Japanese philosophy that appreciates the beauty of impermanence and imperfection. Kintsugi embraces the very idea of Wabi Sabi.
Bush Clover: One of the Seven Autumn Flowers in Japan
Even though summer is almost coming to an end, Japan continues to have many hot days. Today’s peak temperature in Tokyo was 33°C (91.4°F), and there was 67% humidity. It’s...
Kingyo Sukui: Goldfish Scooping
It is festive season here in Japan! Last, night I was at Natsu Matsuri (summer festival) at the shrine by my neighbourhood. It was super packed and I enjoyed my...
Japanese Gift-Giving Tradition
Gift-giving is such an important part of Japanese society. Graduations, weddings, returning from a trip, and even sealing a business deal all call for gift-giving!
Ramune Soda: Japan's Favourite Summer Drink
It is hot every day in Japan. On such hot days, I feel like drinking Ramune. Have you ever had Ramune before? Ramune is a carbonated beverage in a glass...
Hydrangea Season in Japan
Hydrangea season is one of the most beautiful seasons in Japan. You will see some of the most incredible displays of hydrangeas around the country. Unshoji Temple 雲昌寺, also known as...
Tsubame Sanjo: The City of Metalworking
What is Tsubame Sanjo? Have you heard about it? Tsubame Sanjo is the name of a region well-known for its superior metalworking technology. It is located in the central area...