Have you ever wondered what those decorative Japanese cinder blocks are called and what they are for? If so, read on! What Are Japanese Breeze Blocks Called, And What Are…
Category: ART
Kokedama–Moss Ball Bonsai
If you are looking for a way to freshen your space this summer, try hanging a “kokedama” moss ball! What is Kokedama? Everyone knows about bonsai (盆栽), but have you…
The Heart of Kintsugi 金継ぎの心
金継ぎ If you missed our last post, kintsugi is a traditional craft known in the West as “golden joinery.” It involves carefully mending broken pottery with many layers of lacquer…
The Art of Kintsugi (金継ぎ)
A kintsugi master can turn a simple cup into a work of art. What Does Kintsugi Mean? 金 (きん) kin = gold 継ぐ(つぐ) tsugu = connect, inherit, pass on…
Chado: The Japanese Tea Ceremony
Ichii-go, ichi-e. This time we spend together may be the first and last, so let us treasure it. What do you think of when you think of “wa?”Maybe “washoku” Japanese food,…
Tanabata–the Festival of Stars
What Is Tanabata? (Published July 2020, updated July 2021) Tanabata (七夕), literally meaning “seven evenings,” is the Festival of Stars in Japan. This is a celebration of the once-a-year reunion…