A Detailed Introduction to the History of kakigori in Japan, Eaten Even by Sei Shonagon
English
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2026.11
01
2026.10
25
The Secrets of Japanese Room Etiquette: A Guide to Seating Hierarchy, the Seat of Honor, and Its Origins
When I was a novice writer, I was often in charge of organizing drinking parties for our editorial department—even though I don’t drink alcohol myself! Since we went to a different venue every time, I’d always end up in a panic: "Wait, where am I supposed to sit? Where do the VIPs go?' Now that I am at a mature age, if you were to ask whether I clearly know the rules, I somehow lack confidence. So, I looked into kamiza (上座), the seat for superiors or guests, and shimoza (下座), the seat for those hosting!
2026.10
24
Takemoto Oritayu on Inheriting the Historic Stage Name “Takemoto Tsunatayu”
Takemoto Oritayu VI, a prominent narrator (tayū) in traditional Japanese puppet theater (Ningyō Jōruri Bunraku), has officially announced that he will succeed to the prestigious stage name Takemoto Tsunatayu X in January 2028. The commemorative succession performances (Shūmei Hirō Kōen) will be held in Osaka in the same month, and in Tokyo in February. Oritayu's delicate yet powerful narration, which vividly brings characters to life, has long gathered the attention of Bunraku (文楽) fans. Succeeding to a historic title that has produced so many iconic masters marks an exciting milestone—one that promises even greater heights for his career. We visited the press conference held in Osaka City.
2026.10
17
Understanding Kamidana: Why Do We Enshrine Deities Inside Our Homes?
When visiting traditional Japanese houses, long-established businesses, or even contemporary offices, you may sometimes notice a small wooden omiya (お宮) enshrined high up on a wall near the ceiling. Accompanied by a mirror, sakaki (榊) evergreen branches, and shide (紙垂) paper streamers, this small altar is called a kamidana (神棚). Literally meaning "god shelf", it shows us that in Japanese daily life, the sacred is not confined to distant shrines atop mountains, but breathes right alongside us in our everyday lives.
2026.10
10
Discovering Japanese Beauty at Himeji Castle : History and Visitor Information
Towering over the centre of Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture (兵庫県姫路市), atop the 46-metre-high Himeyama (姫山), is Himeji Castle (姫路城). Because its white plaster walls gleam in the sunlight, it is also known as 'Shirasagijo' or 'Hakurojo' (白鷺城). Its graceful appearance, resembling a white heron spreading its wings ready to take flight, never fails to captivate visitors. Registered as one of Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1993 alongside Horyuji (法隆寺), it is a renowned castle that truly represents Japan.
2026.10
04
A Journey into Mingei Folk Craft: Discovering Handcrafted Seto Pottery in Aichi (Part 2)
Continuing to protect traditional techniques in historic production areas, or engaging in craftsmanship as an "individual" without being bound to a specific region—both represent the ways of makers in the "101st year of mingei (民藝)". This time, we visited the potter Mizuno Yusuke of Seto hongyo gama (瀬戸本業窯), a historic pottery studio, persuing mingei in Aichi, a region with a flourishing pottery industry!
2026.10
03
Grilled Live and Down to the Bone: Restaurant Hyotei’s Unforgettable Seasonal Ayu Sweetfish
Starting as a tea house in front of the gates of Nanzenji temple (南禅寺) in Kyoto, Hyotei (瓢亭) has continued as a ryotei (exclusive traditional dining house) from the late Edo period to the present day. It is the only restaurant in the world where the dignified appearance of the establishment, along with the cuisine and hospitality that resonate with the spirit of tea, have been preserved by the founding family for over 400 years. Takahashi Eiichi, who stands in the kitchen as the proprietor and chef, declaring himself active for life, is followed by his eldest son, Yoshihiro. Throughout its long history, opportunities for the active father and son to discuss everything about the restaurant, from the cuisine to the decor, are rare. In this serialisation of 'Waraku', which delivers their precious real voices, this instalment focuses on seasonal ayu sweetfish.
2026.09
27
Looking into the History of the Pillow, Essential for a Good Night’s Sleep… Was It Once for the Dead?!
The importance of a sound sleep has frequently become a topic of conversation. For top athletes, including Otani Shohei, sleep seems to be the highest priority for improving performance. And for a good quality sleep, a pillow is essential. For years, I was a "pillow nomad"—endlessly searching for the right one. However, a few years ago, I came across a pillow that fits me perfectly, and thanks to that, I can now sleep soundly! This got me thinking, how long have pillows been around? So I decided to take a look into it's history.
2026.09
26
Beat the Heat with chilled manju buns: Exploring the History of Mizu manju and other Traditional Summer Confections
I have a strange sweet spot mizu-manju (水まんじゅう). The reason is quite simple: it closely resembles my own face. For a long time, people have called me whatever they pleased, such as a tanuki raccoons, or the characters from My neighbour totoro, namely Totoro and the cat bus, but none of them have ever felt quite right. However, when it comes to the mizu manju, I feel like the resemblance is uncanny.
2026.09
20
Standing with Kumamoto: A Symbol of Hope and the Community Spirit Behind the Castle’s Rebirth
Kumamoto City (熊本市) in Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県) is symbolised by Kumamotojo (熊本城), which is counted as one of Japan's most prominent castles and is known for its unparalleled, robust stone walls and magnificent castle keep. In fact, whilst we were preparing to publish this article, the Reiwa Hachinen Kumamoto Jishin (令和8年熊本地震) occurred. We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this recent earthquake. Whilst introducing the history and highlights of Kumamotojo, a symbol of reconstruction that has overcome numerous hardships, we earnestly pray for the earliest possible recovery of the disaster-stricken areas. Find current updates on Kumamoto Castle and Disaster-Relief Tax Donation Program (Saigai Furusato Nozei) at the end of this page. Support Kumamoto’s recovery journey safely and sustainably from wherever you are!"
2026.09
19
Resurrecting the Royal Castle of the Okinawa Kingdom: the Legacy and Rebirth of Shuri Castle
Shurijo (首里城) is the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Okoku (琉球王国), situated in Naha City (那覇市), Okinawa Prefecture (沖縄県). It functioned as the political, diplomatic, and cultural centre of the Ryukyu Okoku, which lasted for approximately 450 years, and it is a historic monument symbolising Okinawa that served as the cornerstone of interactions with China, Japan, and Southeast Asian countries. In 2000, it was also registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as part of the 'Ryukyu Okoku no Gusuku oyobi Kanren Isangun' (琉球王国のグスク及び関連遺産群).
2026.09
12
The 100-Year Fortress: The Rise and Fall of Odawara Castle
Located in Odawara City (小田原市), Kanagawa Prefecture (神奈川県), Odawarajo (小田原城) is one of the most famous castles representing Japan's Sengokujidai (戦国時代). Flourishing as a strategic stronghold in the Kanto (関東) region, this castle is widely known as the headquarters of the Gohojoshi (後北条氏), or Odawara Hojoshi (小田原北条氏), the Sengoku Daimyo (戦国大名) who ruled the entire Kanto region for approximately 100 years.
2026.08
23
[101 Years of Mingei] “Unpretentious Objects Bring Daily Comfort”: Studio Boke’s Director Shares How to Enjoy Folk Crafts
The year 2025 was filled with exhibitions and events, marking the 100th anniversary of the birth of the word Mingei (民藝). Now in its 101st year, where is Mingei heading? We visited the very sites where Mingei is practised in search of 'something' new. Our second interviewee is Hino Akiko, who runs the one-person wholesale business, Studio Boke (スタジオ木瓜).
2026.08
22
Aligning with the Skeletal Frame: An Unexpected Parallel Between the Kimono and Voice Training. Ito Hitomi “Dressing in ‘Wa’, Adorning the day to day” 13
Ito Hitomi (伊藤仁美) works as a kimono specialist. Born and raised at Ryosokuin (両足院), a Zen temple in Kyoto, she is currently active in a wide range of fields, including giving lectures and appearing at events. Her work focuses on unravelling the value of Japanese aesthetics through the kimono and passing it on to future generations. In this series, she discusses her journey so far and the charm of the kimonos she wears daily.
2026.08
16
Why is Cold Tofu Called ‘Hiyayakko’ (冷奴)? Introducing the Mysterious Etymology, Paraphrases, and English Translations
Spring and early summer have gone on holiday without leave, leading straight into the rainy season, Tsuyu (梅雨). Consequently, it seems midsummer is being heavily overworked, so from the perspective of complying with the Labour Standards Act, I would very much like Mr Spring and Mr Early Summer to come into the office as soon as possible.
By the way, with it being this hot, one ends up wanting to eat cold things every day. In our household, Hiyayakko has been playing an incredibly active role on all fronts day after day since April, to the point where it almost feels as though Mr Hiyayakko has already been chosen as this year's MVP.
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