All About Japan

5 Cool Products Merging Tech & Tradition

Possibly the best image of Japan is as a place where ultra-modern, high technology meets traditional principles and design.

Anatomy of a Traditional Fan

As a necessity amid the heat and humidity of the Japanese summer, the Boshu uchiwa, or Japanese fan, is Chiba Prefecture’s one and only government-designated traditional craft.

3 Fantastic Skincare Items from the Wonder 500

These three fantastic skincare items will prove a wonderful addition to your personal care collection.

4 Incredible Kettles

Whether you're brewing up some powdered matcha green tea or a cup of Earl Grey, boiling water in these kettles will give your tea an extra kick!

3 of Japan's Finest Kitchen Knives

It was of course the Japanese samurai and their infamous swords that set the stage for Japan's global blade fame!

7 Exquisite Bowls from Different Materials

From wood and lacquerware to porcelain and glass, Japanese artisans have used a number of innovative materials to produce some of the most wonderful creations.

6 Beautiful Japanese Glasses

Often utilizing vivid colors, these blown glass glasses are wonderful examples of a traditional Japanese technique.

The Most Expensive Fukubukuro Bags

How much would you be willing to spend on a New Year's grab bag?

Awesome New Year's Paddles from Saitama

These may be the best "hanetsuki" paddles of all time!

3 Traditional Makeup Brush Kits from Kumano

Ever wanted a brush made with gray squirrel fur? With 180 years of history, the town of Kumano is the largest producer of calligraphy and artist’s brushes—as well as makeup brushes—in Japan.

Japanese Cedar Stacking Blocks by Kengo Kuma

Architect Kengo Kuma, who was recently in the news for being selected to build Tokyo’s new Olympic Stadium, has taken the fact that a triangle is the strongest geometric shape, and rendered it into a playful and interactive interior design building set.

5 Classic Cultural Activities in Saitama

Located just north of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture has preserved beautiful pockets of traditional Japan. While there's much to see, there's just as much that you can try out first-hand!

360° Book Lets You Own Mount Fuji

When designer Yusuke Ono submitted his 3-D book idea to the YouFab design contest in 2012, it was too labor intensive to be produced for sale. Not anymore.

The History of Japanese Cosmetic Brushes

These high quality, hand-made products carry a long history and unique manufacturing process that makes each and any one of them a true art work.

Bathroom Beauty: Soaps & Towels

For that moment you want to feel refreshed with elegance.

The Wonderful Seasons & Colors of Japan

Encounter the beautiful colors of nature nurtured by the four seasons.

3 Historical Crafts from Kanagawa

In addition to being home to the major port city of Yokohama and the famed hot springs of Hakone, Kanagawa has developed a number of distinctive crafts that are unique to the region.

4 Cool Wooden Toys from The Wonder 500™

Utilizing one of Japan's most common resources—trees—these toys may well keep your children excited until they turn old and gray!

5 Cool Crafts from Tokyo

Thought it was nothing but big city lights? These crafts from Tokyo are like no other!

Beautiful Japanese Pottery

The seven most beautiful pottery cups from The Wonder 500™.

know-before-you-go