Picture this: no plastic, no tape, no waste—just a square of fabric, a few folds, a simple knot, and you’re set. A makeshift tote, an elegant gift wrap, a stylish way to carry your lunch. That’s the beauty of furoshiki, Japan’s traditional wrapping cloth, seamlessly blending sustainability with style.     Furoshiki has been […]

Kokeshi dolls aren’t just souvenirs—they’re pieces of Japan’s artistic and cultural heritage. These hand-carved wooden figures, with their minimalist yet striking designs, have been crafted for over 150 years. Originally made by artisans in northern Japan as gifts for children, they’ve since become treasured collectibles, each one a unique expression of craftsmanship and tradition. […]

There’s no doubt that Sake, Japan’s delicious national drink, (often drunk – in my experience at least – to raucous cries of ‘Kampai!’)  Not only is it the perfect pairing to your favourite sushi, sake is a deeply nuanced, centuries-old craft. Much like wine, there are an incredible range of flavours from delicate floral […]

A Tradition Rooted in Elegance Hanami (花見),is the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, is a seasonal spectacle that is centuries-old. Probably no single ritual embodies Japan’s deep appreciation for fleeting beauty more, offering a glimpse into Japan’s poetic soul. What began as an aristocratic pastime in the Heian period (794–1185) has evolved into […]

Goshuin, are beautiful, hand-inscribed seals that are a unique piece of calligraphy that connects you to Japan’s deep spiritual and historical roots.

Two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is the go-to spectacular autumn escape

Tokyo - with its endless collision of old and new - almost has a museum dedicated to just about everything and gallery scene that pulls you seemlessly into the ecclectic soul of this magical city

Discover five must-do activities in Narita City during your stopover. From the serene Naritasan Shinshoji Temple to tasting local unagi, turn your layover into a mini adventure

Discover the perfect blend of luxury and spirituality in Mie Prefecture. Explore the sacred Ise Jingu, and unwind at a traditional ryokan

Discover the sacred pilgrimage site of Koyasan, Japan. Explore ancient temples, serene landscapes, and spiritual practices in a tranquil retreat away from the everyday hustle

The creation of wagashi requires skill, precision, and an artistic eye. Despite the simplicity of the ingredients - typically rice flour, beans, sugar, and water—master artisans spend years perfecting their techniques

If you have a passion for grilling, I have a culinary diamond (before-the-rough) for you — Binchotan Charcoal. Steeped in fine Japanese grilling tradition, this charcoal is actually revered by chefs and barbecue enthusiasts worldwide. But what makes Binchotan so special, and why does it come with a high price tag? Read on! The […]

In my head I am already there. It is my first evening, wandering through the vibrant streets, surround by a group of tipsy new friends. We have found the perfect yakitori restaurant. Our table is laden with hot sake and cold Asahi Super-Dry. As we are toasting “campai”, streaming plates of kushiyaki and yakitori […]

Shimbashi, in the heart of Tokyo, is a neighbourhood where the past and present blend like wasabi and soy sauce. Somehow the lanterns still glow with an aura of Japan’s rich history while modern life pulsates below. Shimbashi is a place for travellers to have an authentic Tokyo experience with its captivating history, unique […]

Just what is a “salaryman”? A fabled idea from an anime, perhaps. A guy sits alone in a ramen shop. He’s been working hard all day. He works hard everyday and at night goes out to eat and drink alone. Staring into his creamy steaming noodles, piled high with sliced pork and green onion, […]

In our latest blog post, we step into the finger-lickin’ world of kushiyaki, the traditional Japanese art of skewered, grilled deliciousness. We had the pleasure of speaking with Chef Masahiro Iwakami, the owner of a renowned Kushiyaki restaurant in Shimbashi, Tokyo. Join us as we explore the secrets behind his culinary craft and the […]