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Author: RoYuMi
Odate Magewappa – Akita Prefectural Crafts
Magewappa (曲げわっぱ) is a traditional woodcraft created in Odate City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. Its history dates back more than 1,300 years when loggers began bending wooden boards to make containers. Akita cedar is used as the main material, especially those over 100 years old, as they have a very beautiful and particular shine. This wood… Read more
Japanese School Uniforms
Japanese school uniforms are inspired by naval uniforms from Europe in the late 19th century, when they were introduced to Japan. Currently, school uniforms are a part of daily life in public and private schools in Japan. These types of uniforms are called seifuku (制服). Since many schools do not have locker rooms or lockers,… Read more
What is a Henohenomohe-ji?
Henohenomohe-ji (へのへのもへじ), sometimes just abbreviated heno-ji , is a drawing made up of hiragana characters (へhe,のno,へhe,のno,もmo,へhe,じji) that arranged in a certain way, they make up a face or countenance. The first and second “へ” represent the eyebrows, the two “の” represent the eyes, the “も” represents the nose, the third “へ” represents the mouth, and… Read more
Kamaboko – The Popular Japanese Specialty That Few Mention
So many times we have seen the kamaboko accompanying super famous dishes from Japan or being part of scenes from movies or anime, and despite everything, it is rarely recognized by name nor is much known about its history, content and flavor. Do you locate that small round or flower-shaped ingredient that has a spiral… Read more
SUMASHIJIRU – A DELICIOUS JAPANESE SOUP
A traditional Japanese soup, elegant, light and delicious, perfect for special occasions although it can be enjoyed every day without problem! There are many traditional and personal variations to this delicious soup, so don’t be afraid to experiment! It goes great with various vegetables, kamaboko, tofu, and more! Preparation: 10 minutes Stew: 40 mins Total… Read more
“Aiai-gasa” – The symbol of lovers
You have probably seen in anime or manga the symbol of “Aiai-gasa” (相合い傘) and it is the Western equivalent of writing a heart with the names of lovers inside it. “Aiai-gasa” comes from the kanji相合い(aiai) which means to do something together and傘(kasa) which means umbrella . What does this mean? Well, let’s explain it! (You… Read more
Securing the Future of Traditional Art and Culture – Art & Culture Studio Kotonoha
One of the biggest effects on the economy that COVID-19 has caused is the impact it has had on the entertainment industry. More than 70% of industry-related jobs, such as acting and staging, have been lost since 2020, with some artists declaring 50% less entry, and 80% declaring they have no income. no monetary input.… Read more
In JAPAN with the “right foot” / Avoid the “dame-gaijin”
Today we want to talk to you about something that has to do, in a certain way, with business. Let’s say with your work, with your opportunities too, although it is more general, it is not only limited to business but to life in general in Japan. And it’s something that maybe you can let… Read more
MIYAGI Traditional Kokeshi Doll
Traditional Kokeshi dolls (こけし) are a craft unique to the Tohoku region. It is said that they were born as souvenirs for children in the hot spring areas of the region at the end of the Edo period (1603 – 1867) Kokeshi dolls would all seem the same at first glance, but if you look… Read more
Meet the 12 original castles of Japan
While Japan is home to more than 300 castles, there are only 12 original castles in Japan. By “original” it is meant that the castle tower (or main keep) is one that was built during the Edo period or earlier. The fact that there are only 12 original castles is mainly due to the fact… Read more