The Oldest 'Washi' Production Center in Japan
Explore the process of making traditional Japanese paper in Echizen City, known as the oldest producer of 'washi' in all of Japan.
No Need for Electricity with These Speakers
After playing songs with bamboo instruments, one band moves on to bamboo audio delivery that works with your smartphone.
Otherworldly Transformation of Simple Ceramics
This ceramic artist takes utilitarian vessels and transforms them into otherworldly objects.
Turn Your Smartphone into a Pokédex
True trainers will want to get their hands on a new cell phone cover that not only protects your phone, but even looks like a Pokédex!
Hike the Mackerel Highway
Back in the day, getting ocean fish to Kyoto was back-breaking work. You can still hike the 1,300-year-old path that brought mackerel to the ancient capital.
Hunt Through 2 Million Handmade Items!
HandMade in Japan Fes presents a weekend full of crafts, music, performances, food, drinks and farmers markets conveniently packed in one venue.
Kappabashi: Home of Japanese Knives
Kappabashi is an awesome spot to find cool Japanese kitchenware, especially the beautiful blades beloved by chefs around the world.
Ofusa Kannon Wind Chime Festival
Feel cool in the summer heat at this unassuming temple in Nara.
Design on a Dime: ¥100 Art Supplies
Being creative doesn't have to be costly thanks to the numerous ¥100 shops around Japan.
5 Tools for Getting Started with 'Sumi-e'
Japanese 'sumi-e' ink wash painting is a great hobby to pick up—it's cheap and easy to get started!
How Do You Bleach Kimono Fabrics? With Snow!
These stunning videos show how craftsmen keep their UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage practice alive during the coldest months of the year.
7 More Things to Do on Rainy Days in Tokyo
Visiting Tokyo during the rainy season? Have your plans for the following day been cancelled due to rain? Not to worry! Check out a list of indoors activities and experiences that will make you forget the dark clouds!
Revitalizing Fukushima One Shoe at a Time
Keep a centuries-old tradition alive on the streets by wearing 450 years of history on your feet.
Make Your Very Own Japanese Paper
‘Washi’ (Japanese traditional paper) is made from wood fiber, making it stronger than today’s common paper made of wood pulp. And the Uchiyama style of ‘washi’ made in northern Nagano’s Iiyama City is especially durable!
Rainy Days are the Perfect Excuse for Pottery
A rainy day doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. Pottery anyone?
Take Home a Piece of Niigata
Savor the prefecture’s finest produce long after your trip is over!
Traditional Ryukyu Glassblowing Lesson in Naha
Learn to make beautiful, traditional Ryukyu glass during your trip to Okinawa!
Spinning into our Hearts
80-year-old Masaaki Hiroi has dedicated his life to handcrafting gorgeous wooden toys the old-fashioned way.
4 Textile Companies from the Old School
Textiles are vital to modern day-to-day life. Here are four companies that draw on more than half a century of experience to produce everything from silk to high-end yarn.
Perfectly Equipped Tablecloth for Craft Fairs
Check out this tablecloth specifically designed for fair booths, and how it makes all the difference in staying organized!