Blogs

In Japan, the tea ceremony is more than an artistic pastime for preparation and presentation of matcha. The ideals which it represents serve as tools for teaching children personal and social values … read more

May 1 in Japan is the dawn of the new era of Reiwa (令和, Beautiful Harmony). The entire country is abuzz with excitement, hope, and anticipation. Empress Masako will accompany Emperor Naruhito, alon … read more

There is so much written about the beauty and profoundness of cherry blossoms. And yet, my childhood memories of them are quite simple.I grew up in Mimasaka, a small town in Okayama prefecture. There, … read more

In Japan, one of the sure signs of the arrival of spring is Hina-Matsuri, the Festival of Dolls. Japanese have celebrated Hina-Matsuri since at least the 8th-century Heian period. During this … read more

Winter solstice will be upon us soon. Days will begin to get longer, and the promise of new beginnings is in the air.As we put 2017 behind us, just as we do every year, we want to say thanks to our … read more