All About Japan All About Japan

Fresh start every Monday!

Travel Back in Time to the Early 20th Century

Slip back into the Taisho Period when you slip on one of these stunning kimono.

Dyeing Technique Originated with Edo Lords

Along with Kyoto and Kanazawa, Tokyo is one of Japan’s three major traditional kimono-dyeing regions. Find out how the technique Tokyo Some Komon been passed down from the Edo Period to the present day.

Spinning Synthetic Silk

What gives silk its sheen, and just how did a Japanese company replicate it synthetically?

Modern Designs Update Ancient Traditions

SOU SOU's patterns and styling remain sufficiently Japanese to intrigue visitors from abroad, yet they are contemporary enough to appeal to Japanese shoppers.

Kyoto's 1,000-Year-Old Hand Embroidery

This shop in Kyoto carries on a tradition of silk embroidery that dates back to the Asuka Period (592-710).

'Furoshiki' Shoes will Ensconce Your Feet

These wrap-around shoes have been inspired by traditional Japanese 'furoshiki' wrapping cloths, which were historically used to carry things like clothing or bento. But when you put them on your feet, they can carry you wherever you want to go!

How Japanese Textiles Enable Global Fashions

Nobuyuki Ota, the CEO of the Cool Japan Fund and an expert on fashions both domestic and overseas, expounds on the history and appeal of Japanese textiles.

How Amateur Models Reach the Top of the Pops

'Dokusha moderu,' which literally means 'reader model,' refers to an amateur fashion model who serves as a representative of the readers of a particular fashion magazine. In Japan, these models are often more popular than their runway counterparts!

10 Ways to Deck Yourself Out in Okayama Denim

Okayama Prefecture is the heart of denim in Japan. Check out these 10 pieces from Okayama Denim that will have you set in some fine Japan-made threads, great for both denim newbies and real denim heads!

Top Manga for Women's Fashion Inspiration!

Beyond having great storylines that immerse you in their world, many manga have a great sense of style that comes out from the author's background.

5 Weird Beauty Products that Look Like Torture

Ever thought you'd like to try a face corset? No? How about an aluminum spa for your face? Check out this list of five weird Japanese beauty products that will have you questioning why they were made in the first place!

These Over-Knee Socks are Waterproof & Stylish

Once you've seen these, you'll never go underwater sockless again!

300-Year-Old Hemp Makes a Modern Comeback

Founded in Nara in 1716, Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten is finding new ways to bring its traditional textiles to a modern market, both domestically and overseas.

See How Momotaro Jeans are Made

Momotaro Jeans' craftspeople have dedicated their lives to denim. See how they produce a pair of jeans, from start to finish.

The Book of 'Sweet' Makeup Tips!

Famed makeup artist Yuzuko wants to share the secrets of the latest Japanese teen makeup trends!

Fancy Wearing a Kimono on your Head?

Thanks to Japanese company W@nder Fabric, you can now wear a cap made from vintage kimono and obi sashes!

Lolita Beauty Isn’t Only Skin Deep

A dark-skinned model's first-person perspective shows a different shade of Lolita fashion.

The Rise of Tokyo Fashion Week

Move over Milan and look out London! Tokyo might just be the next fashion capital!

People Dressed as Animals Dressed Like People

The smash hit movie 'Zootopia' inspires cosplay enthusiasts to create real-life versions of their favorite animated characters.

Transforming Washi to Meet Modern Needs

Would you wear a wedding dress made of paper?

know-before-you-go