What’s the difference between a bonsai and a potted plant? Answers to five questions about appreciating bonsai for the first time, Part 2

Q&A Sei Shonagon. What kind of woman gave birth to ‘The Pillow Book’?

What led you to research Japan? Curator Wagner, who promotes ukiyo-e in Scandinavia, tells us about the appeal of hanga

Cheating men are punished! What is the horribly shameful ‘Yoshiwara’ private punishment?

The torture and execution method ‘Hebizeme’ is frightening… with examples such as Maeda Toshitsune

What’s the difference between a bonsai and a potted plant? Answers to five questions about appreciating bonsai for the first time, Part 1

‘Saw-mill’, a punishment that no one wants to carry out because it is so cruel. Its horrific method of execution

The ‘Ebi-seme’ imposed on those who endure two stages of torture. Horrific punishments in the Edo period

The sentiment Hikaru Genji’s son Kaoru over Ukifune’s ougi (扇). Exploring the relationship between Heian aristocrats and ougi　Sawada Toko ‘Biso no Nippon: The history of dressing up’

Quiz, Who painted Shunga? Even those famous painters!?

Why has the Japanese robot anime ‘Goldorak’ been a favourite in France for 45 years?

The relationship between the Conder and Kyosai

What’s the reason for the popularity of the ‘Beauty looking back’? The works of Hishikawa Moronobu and the history of ‘bijinga’ portraits

Oda Nobunaga had an infamous sweet tooth? Unexpected episodes of the merciless leader’s love of sweets.

Flower decorations of the Heian aristocracy and the attire of celestial maidens handed down to the present day　Sawada Toko ‘Biso no Nippon: The history of dressing up’

Your day trip guide to enjoying the castle town and udon in Takamatsu, Kagawa

Two lottery tickets worth 800 million yen were once won at the same time! The mystery of the giant ‘Zenigata Sunae’, a super ‘power spot’ for good fortune in wealth [Kagawa]

A new spot for a stroll in Yanaka, Tokyo. Enjoy a cream soda with a difference at Cafe Nikai!