Blogs

Mountains, Sacred Myths, and Respect for Nature

Mountains, Sacred Myths, and Respect for Nature

Posted by Momoko Kagamizu on 9th Aug 2017

Japanese affinity for the awe-inspiring beauty of their mountains is deep-rooted in a curious mix of sacred myths, love of outdoors, and respect for nature. Nearly 70 percent of the Japanese archipel … read more
Fairness, Equality and the Humble Rice Paddy

Fairness, Equality and the Humble Rice Paddy

Posted by Momoko Kagamizu on 30th May 2017

The Japanese character for rice paddy is ta. It is a simple, stylish character which depicts equally divided rice paddies, representing fairness and sharing. Rice farming is an integral weave in … read more
Toko Shinoda: A Bold, Beautiful Lady

Toko Shinoda: A Bold, Beautiful Lady

Posted by Yukiko Kisaki on 26th Apr 2017

Toko Shinoda is a leading Japanese avant-garde painter who just turned 104. For over seventy years she has kept on creating bold, evocative art which speaks from her heart. Toko-san created the p … read more
Place Where There Are No Strangers

Place Where There Are No Strangers

Posted by Momoko Kagamizu on 5th Mar 2017

under cherry blossoms’ shade even those whom we don’t know are not strangers (Issa Kobayashi, 1819) When we can share feelings with others, they are no longer strangers. If we have em … read more
Reflections and Hopes

Reflections and Hopes

Posted by Yoshi Kai on 22nd Dec 2016

December is the time for traditions, celebrations, and expressing gratitude. It is also time for reflections, hopes, and positive thoughts.We have had a busy year, thanks to every single one of you. A … read more