Blogs

Dawn of the Era of Beautiful Harmony

Dawn of the Era of Beautiful Harmony

Posted by Momoko Kagamizu on 26th Apr 2019

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
Japanese Festival of Dolls (Hina-Matsuri)

Japanese Festival of Dolls (Hina-Matsuri)

Posted by Yoshi Kai on 1st Mar 2019

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 time Ja … read more
Japanese Table Manner Tips and Useful Phrases

Japanese Table Manner Tips and Useful Phrases

Posted by Yukiko Kisaki on 10th Nov 2018

  Japanese is a culture of etiquette, with elaborate rules for table manners.The following is a brief tutorial on Japanese table manners and polite phrases, which you can practice … read more
What is the best season to visit Japan?

What is the best season to visit Japan?

Posted by Yuri Nonaka on 24th Aug 2018

I often get asked about the best season to visit Japan. Such a seemingly simple question. However, there are more choices and more “seasons” than most people realize. Japan is a land of … read more
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