Spoon & Tamago
Mashikaku: Japan’s Edo-Era Typography Returns
In Edo-era Japan, several lettering styles known as 'Edomoji' were invented for advertising purposes. One design team wants to bring these characters back.
Infographic Depicts Evolution of Technology
Designer Eisuke Tachikawa presents the evolution of technology as one, astounding, real-life infographic that visually lays out over 100 objects that have been integrated into the iPhone.
Japanese Fairy Tale Legends VS. Mickey Mouse
Mickey Mouse is one of the most popular cartoon characters in Japan, but 80 years ago that certainly wasn’t the case, at least not according to a 1934 propaganda film that cast Mickey as an evil invader that’s come to terrorize a happy island community.
Tatami Mats: Not Just for the Floor Anymore
If you've ever been to a traditional Japanese home, you've likely seen tatami mats on the floor. But have you ever seen it on furniture?!
Photo Book Documents Ancient Pilgrimage Path
Witness the awe-inspiring shots captured by two photographers who spent eight days wandering ancient routes crisscrossing Japan's largest peninsula.
The Devil Is in the Details
You'll simply be amazed by this dedicated 'Dragon Ball' fan's detailed drawing!
Miyazaki Plans Idyllic Nature Park for Kids
The director of My Neighbor Totoro is planning a children's park on an island in Okinawa. The real question is, how will he keep the adults away?
An Office Tailor-Made for a Fashion Giant
Get a peek inside the new, posh office of Start Today, one of the largest Japanese fashion companies. The bubble-like meeting rooms and indoor greenery are sure to inspire fresh new ideas!
Spectacular Handheld Bamboo Fireworks Photos
This Aichi-area festival features geysers of light exploding from handheld bamboo cannons!
Beautifully Minimalist Ping Pong Ads
How do you advertise a simple yet satisfying sport? With simple yet satisfying art!
Ukiyo-e Isn't Just Skin Deep
This collection of ukiyo-e prints illustrates what's going on deep inside the body.
Would You Buy a Creepy Cactus?
Check out this real 'Little Shop of Horrors,' full of monster-inspired cacti.
Live in a Muji House — For Free!
Lifestyle retailer Muji is offering a free house in the seaside town of Kamakura, and you won't believe how stunningly gorgeous it is!
Soy Sauce Dishes Create 3-D Optical Illusions
With just a splash of soy sauce, Soy Shapes allow seemingly normal dishes to be rendered into M.C. Escher-style three-dimensional optical illusions.
A Darker Version of 'The Little Mermaid'
Brought to life by legendary artist Yayoi Kusama, this collaboration brilliantly illustrates the original Hans Christian Andersen classic.
The Perfect Rentable Guesthouse in Uji
If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto or Uji, this guesthouse is worth checking out!
Japanese Portable Record Players Exhibition
These Japanese gadgets might be outdated, but they're definitely not forgotten!
What Would Cities Look Like “Tokyo-ized”!
What would your city look like if it became a sister city of Tokyo?!
Puddle: A Home Designed to Let in Rainwater
One family in Japan saw rainwater not as an unwanted intruder, but simply a part of life that, when controlled, can bring you and your home in tune with nature.
The Kumamoto Castle Reconstruction Efforts
Take a look at some photos from the reconstruction efforts for one of the most time-sensitive projects: restoring the Iidamaru Gokai Yagura, a five-story guard tower that was at risk of imminent collapse.
