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!
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!
Where Studio Ghibli's Paint Comes From
Founded in 1950, this 17-person paint company has colored the works of anime geniuses from Osamu Tezuka to Hayao Miyazaki.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Ofusa Kannon Wind Chime Festival
Feel cool in the summer heat at this unassuming temple in Nara.
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.
The New Classics: Culture Experiences in Tokyo
Traditional Japanese experiences have been receiving a revamp, with visitors and locals alike flocking to try new versions of old favorites!
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.
Spinning into our Hearts
80-year-old Masaaki Hiroi has dedicated his life to handcrafting gorgeous wooden toys the old-fashioned way.
Rainy Days are the Perfect Excuse for Pottery
A rainy day doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. Pottery anyone?
Otherworldly Transformation of Simple Ceramics
This ceramic artist takes utilitarian vessels and transforms them into otherworldly objects.
The Origin of the Maneki Neko
The Maneki Neko, literally the "beckoning cat,"is a very common Japanese figurine. Although there are several possible stories behind its origin, the one revolving around Gotokuji Temple probably has the most veracity to it.
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.
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.
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!
Traditional Ryukyu Glassblowing Lesson in Naha
Learn to make beautiful, traditional Ryukyu glass during your trip to Okinawa!
Making Broken Pottery Look Like New
Handicrafts Kumamoto Earthquake
This volunteer craftsman is traveling to Kumamoto to help repair earthquake-damaged family heirlooms free of charge.
