Unlocking Wisdom: Lessons From the Japanese Moai Tradition

In Japan, tight-knit social groups, moais, have helped people gain insight and support. As an ancient tradition, the moai offers timeless lessons for finding purpose and connection. You may be familiar with some aspects of Japanese culture, but the moai remains a mystery to most outsiders. This article explores three great lessons from this timeless ...

Viena Abdon

A Japanese moai

Omamori: Japanese Talismans

If you’ve ever been to Japan, you’ll find certain places that sell omamori, often near religious or traditional sites. Booths around these shrines or Japanese buildings sell these magical-looking talismans, often in the form of keychains, necklaces, or other types of trinkets, with the common one being held by a string. Buying a random omamori ...

Mike West

Various omamori.

Carving Through Paradise: Exploring Japan’s Top 10 Snowboarding Destinations

Japan’s snow-covered landscapes and world-class resorts make it a dream destination for snowboarders seeking excitement and unforgettable experiences. With a unique blend of traditional charm and modern infrastructure, Japan offers a plethora of exceptional snowboarding spots.  This article will delve into the thrilling world of snowboarding in Japan. The top 10 snowboarding destinations in Japan ...

Viena Abdon

Yotei Mountain in Japan.

Learn Moritsuke: The Art of Japanese Plating

When it comes to Japanese cuisine, the first thing that often comes to mind is its delicate and artful presentation. The Japanese have mastered turning a simple meal into a visually stunning masterpiece. At the heart of this culinary aesthetic lies “moritsuke,” the intricate art of Japanese plating. As you learn about the concept of ...

Viena Abdon

Japanese moritsuke.

Japanese Natto Explored: Why This Traditional Dish Is Good for Your Health

The traditional Japanese dish natto is popular in Japan, but it is commonly unheard of in the Western world. Aside from its unique taste, the dish has substantial health benefits due to its nutrition. This food is unique and is sometimes even described as an acquired taste since, admittedly, not everyone that tries it the ...

Mike West

A bowl of Japanese natto.

Moriyama’s Genji Fireflies: Saving Japan’s Illuminated Gems

Have you ever been captivated by the enchanting dance of fireflies on a warm summer night? In Japan, these small, luminous insects, known as “genji-botaru” (Nipponoluciola cruciate), or simply “genji,” have fascinated generations with their beautiful glow.  Fireflies have played a significant role in Japanese folklore, art, and culture for hundreds of years, symbolizing the ...

Haidene Go

Fireflies glowing at night.

Why Is Japan the Only Country in the World Without Beggars?

It was a drizzly night in Tokyo, Japan. It was the rainy season. On my way home, an old man rode a bicycle with a large bag of empty cans on the back seat. I remembered that tomorrow was the weekly mandatory rubbish collection day, and the old man had beaten the rubbish collection company ...

Emma Lu

A homeless person in Japan.

Japanese Shrines: Understanding Their Significance and Importance

Step into the mesmerizing realm of Japanese shrines, where time-honored customs intertwine harmoniously with the contemporary tapestry of life. If you’re interested in experiencing the country’s vibrant cultural heritage, you won’t want to miss out on exploring these sacred sites. This guide will help you explore the essence of Japanese shrines, delve into their significance ...

Haidene Go

japanese-shrine

Super Strong Tape Made From Japanese Paper-Cutting Art

Japanese paper-cutting art, known as kirigami, is an ancient technique used to create art. It’s a very straightforward technique that involves cutting paper to create a reliably strong, but aesthetically pleasing, fragile piece of paper art. Now, this process is being applied to make super-strong tape. Kirigami is a variation of origami, the Japanese art of folding paper. The ...

Mike West

The art of kirigami.