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As a self-proclaimed sword fanatic, there's nothing I love more than delving into the rich history and cultural significance of different types of blades. And when it comes to swords, it's hard to top the iconic Japanese katana. But before we dive into the details of this legendary weapon, let's start with the basics: What is a Katana? A katana is a type of Japanese sword with a curved, single-edged blade that is traditionally made of tamahagane (a type of high-carbon steel). The blade ranges from around 23.6 inches to 29.5 inches in length and is worn edge-up in a...

New Years is celebrated everywhere in the world, but it is interesting to compare the differences between western New Year / Christmas, with the way we celebrate it here in Japan. In many western countries, Christmas is meant to be spent with family and is a treasured time with loved ones while New Years is about fun celebrations with friends.  In Japan, it is the opposite. New Years is one of the most important times of year here in Japan and I would love to tell you more about it, so read on! Oshogatsu and Hatsumode As a Japanese person,...

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth that has been used for centuries to carry and transport a wide range of items. From groceries and gifts to clothing and household goods, furoshiki is a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags and other disposable packaging materials.   Where and When is Furoshiki from? The origins of furoshiki can be traced back to the Nara period (710-794) in Japan, when people used square or rectangular cloths to carry goods to and from the public baths, or furo. The word furoshiki is derived from the combination of these two words. Over time,...

If you're a fan of cooking, then you know that having a great knife is important. Sure, you can get by with a cheap knife from the grocery store, but it's not going to be the same as having a quality knife that's designed for precision cutting. That's where Japanese knives come in.   Japanese knives are some of the best in the world, and they're perfect for anyone who wants to up their cooking game. In this guide, we'll go over everything you need to know about Japanese knives, including the different types of knives, the best places to...

What Are Dorodango?  Dorodango are little balls of mud that are shaped and polished until they become glass-like orbs. They are a popular craft created by children in Japan. They are made by rolling a ball of mud on the ground, and then polishing it with wet fingers until it becomes smooth. This is a craft that is popular among children in Japan. It's not just kids who enjoy this activity - adults also take part in this activity as a hobby or as an artistic form. It is incredible to see the work and patience that masters have put...