traditional

Being between Shizuoka and the Izu Peninsula, Suruga is typically referred to as the area surrounding the gorgeous Suruga Bay. Known for its beautiful views of Mount Fuji, fishing opportunities, tea harvesting, and drinking experiences, along with much more throughout each season, there is never a […]

The taiko drums are an integral part of Japanese music and culture and have been for over 2000 years. Interestingly, the word Taiko can refer to a Japanese drumming style, the music from the drums, a group of musicians who play the drums, and even the […]

In Japan, there’s a cherished tradition taking place every November when temples and shrines fill with brightly dressed children, proud parents, and an air of festivity. This celebration is Shichi-Go-San — a longstanding Japanese tradition that honors children who have reached the special ages of 3, […]

Every year on November 3rd, Japan celebrates Bunka no Hi (文化の日), or Culture Day. This national holiday gives an opportunity for the Japanese people to celebrate their culture, historical achievements, and artistic creativity. It's a day made to appreciate the richness of the diverse cultural heritage […]

Also known as kadō, Ikebana is by far the most attractive flower arrangement method. Literally, Ikebana means ‘’giving life to flowers.’. Compared to the Western styles of flower arrangement which are commonly marked by placing a bunch of flowers in a vase, Ikebana focuses on aesthetically […]

The Japanese countryside offers unique culinary experiences. Read on to learn about natural farming in Shikoku, see delicious daily meals from an Ehime prefecture homestead, and consider the outlook for local foods of rural Japan. Make sure you bring along some snacks because believe me when […]

Imagine it’s 1300 years ago in the year 724 AD, the Nara era of Japan. You’ve heard whispers of Kinosaki, a small town nestled along the Sea of Japan. Word has it a Buddhist priest named Dochi Shonin prayed for one-thousand days in order to help […]

Aichi Prefecture has a local gourmet called “kishimen,” which has been beloved in the region since ancient times. Unlike Japan's famous ramen or soba, kishimen refers to wide and flat noodles that are thinner than udon noodles and have been cherished in Aichi. This post will […]

D&Department is a decades-long project founded by Nagoka Kenmei in 2002 and is known for its innovative focus on Long Life Design. D&Department's activities include workshops, exhibitions, travel guides, events — and much more — all of which foster the development of close relationships with producers, […]

Attention dear travelers, I have some very important news before you set sail to Japan and it involves something vital that you require on your trip: currency. Yes, as of July 3rd, 2024, the Bank of Japan has stated that new banknotes for 1,000 yen, 5,000 […]