Naoya Takayama and the everyday luxury of Japanese lacquer
Naoya Takayama, 4th generation head of a company that has been selling Buddhist altars for over 100 years, has been
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Features
Tondo Matsuri
Huge bonfires snap, crackle and pop around Hiroshima in the middle of January, sending the hope and dreams embodied in the past year’s votive goods and new year decorations up to the heavens.
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All You Need to Know About Miyajima at New Year 2024
A few tidbits of info that we hope will make your New Year jaunt to Miyajima a memorable one.
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Demystifying the living art of bonsai
The Chakuno family have been tending gardens and bonsai for 400 years. Once reserved for the samurai, they are bringing bonsai back down to earth.
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The kendama dreams of Kazuma Iwata
When Kazuma Iwata decided to apply the skills of a craftsman to the kendama, he transformed the traditional wooden toy that helped it turn from plaything to lifestyle sport.
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Sacred sands and wishes for peace, from Miyajima to the world
Across the water from Itsukushima Shrine, the Yamane family have been running Taigendo kiln since 1912. With close links to
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From the Yangtze Valley to the Inland Sea
Japanese brush makers Bunshindo have been creating the nation’s best calligraphy brushes on the coast of the Inland Sea for around 100 years.
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Autumn Leaves in Hiroshima
Here’s our guide to the best spots to go join the crowds – and some tips as to how to avoid them – and enjoy the autumn leaves in and around Hiroshima.
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Sake Matsuri, Japan’s best sake festival is back!
The annual Sake Matsuri, held over 2 days in the brewing district of Saijo in Higashi Hiroshima, has to be the best sake festival in Japan.
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Onomichi Akari Matsuri
On an autumn evening every October, people flock to Onomichi to wander its picturesque streets decorated with thousands of candles.
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