Setsubun Obake👻  ~Cosplay Setsubun Day by Geiko~

In older times during Setsubun, people also participated in role reversal. Young girls would do their hair in the styles of older women and vice versa, and even do some cross-dressing. This custom is still practiced among Geiko in Kyoto (Geisha in Kyoto called Geiko), who still participate in these old traditions by wearing disguises or dressing as men when … Read More

The Secret World of the Maiko

Most people do not really know Geisha beyond their elaborate kimonos. Many can recognize one from a mile away, but apart from the white makeup and the intricate hairstyle, there is very little that is known about them. We take a closer look at the intriguing world of the Geisha and the Geisha-in-Training, the Maiko.

Japan’s Autumnal Equinox Day (秋分の日)

Japan autumnal equinox flower

Every year around mid-end of September, in time with the autumn equinox in the Northern Hemisphere, Japan observes a national holiday called Autumnal Equinox Day (秋分の日). This day has been a public holiday since 1948, and it actually celebrates more than just the changing of the seasons. Here’s the things you may want to know about Japan’s Autumnal Equinox Day!

10 Famous Japanese Proverbs

It’s quite likely that you have heard the phrase, “fall down 7 times, get up 8”. But did you know that it originated as a Japanese saying? Nana korobi yaoki (七転び八起き), which translates to “7 falls, 8 rises” is a very well-known kotowaza (ことわざ), or proverb.  Here is our list of 10 more famous Japanese proverbs.

Travel Guide to Kisoji, Nakasendo ~Visiting post towns

magome-juku post town

Have you ever traveled to Nakasendō road or any of the post town stations along the way? There are beautiful, ancient, and picturesque trails in Nakasendo中山道 where you will feel nostalgic, especially in the Kisoji area (Gifu & Nagano). These trekking routes between the post towns are where you can enjoy scenic mountain hikes. In this blog, I visited and … Read More

Amezaiku: Japan’s Incredible Animal-Shaped Candy Art

Amezaiku (飴細工) is traditional Japanese candy art. Making the incredibly detailed candies isn’t easy, as the material must be quickly molded by hand when it is still extremely hot! The best amezaiku artists can create unbelievably realistic-looking animal shapes, and some artisans also double as street performers who perform magic tricks and tell stories along with their candy craft entertainment. … Read More

How to Enjoy Summer Festivals in Japan

summer festivals Natsu matsuri

Summer in Japan is a season bursting with matsuri celebrations, especially at night when the air cools down. Most of the festivals in the summertime are held outdoors, for the favorable weather allows visitors to enjoy the celebrations both during the day and the nighttime. Summer festivals are characterized by local bon odori (bon dances), the summer version of Kimono called Yukata … Read More

How To Properly Eat Sushi

Sushi (寿司) is a classic Japanese food that is enjoyed by people all around the world. Sushi has quite a long history that dates back thousands of years, and also comes with traditional ways to properly consume it. Following these guidelines ensures that you are offering your greatest respects to the sushi chef who worked to perfect the meal, and … Read More

10 Fun Things to Do in Japan in July 2019

久喜の提灯祭り・天王様

July is a month packed with peak summer fun in Japan! Many of the nation’s most popular festivals take place in July, and well as a number of other fireworks festivals, dance celebrations, Tanabata decorations, and much more. Here are 10 fun things to do in Japan in July 2019!

10 Most Luxurious Japanese Foods

Did you know that Japan has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other country in the world? Japan is home to a variety of incredibly luxurious foods for both locals and tourists to try. Here’s a look at ten of the most luxurious foods in Japan – have you ever tried any of these delicacies?