Why Does This Japanese Table Have a Blanket? Meet the Kotatsu
The cups sit on a wooden tabletop. Below them, a thick quilt falls almost to the floor. Someone has apparently dressed the table for winter. A kotatsu is …
KURASHiNO和 JOURNAL
Culture & Living
Seasonal rituals, thoughtful gifts and simple ways to bring Japanese culture into daily life.
13 stories
Dew, Snow and Flowers: Discovering the Seasons in Japanese Textiles
Explore seasonal names, colour and everyday rituals with NOWA. Four Ise cotton coasters offer a small introduction to Japanese textiles and caring for the…
3 Ways to Set a Calmer Table with a Tokkuri and Guinomi
Arrange a calmer table with three ideas for space, side plates and light. NOWA explains tokkuri and guinomi, with chilled-tea alternatives to sake.
7 Thoughtful Thank-You Gift Ideas for Someone Who Loves Tea
Tea, treats, flowers, a café visit or a small handcrafted plate: explore seven editorial gift ideas and practical ways to choose a personal thank-you.
Choosing Colourful Plates: 3 Ways to Enjoy Yoshidaya-Style Kutani
Explore Yoshidaya-style Kutani with NOWA: notice colour, compare patterns and picture a plate beside your own dishes. Plus practical checks before buying.
Where to Place a Small Japanese Glass Vase at Home: Simple Ideas for Compact Spaces
If you have limited space but want to add fresh flowers to your routine, even a single-stem vase can make a difference. Here’s how to place and enjoy a sm…
A Japanese Craft Gift for a Cat Lover: Choosing a Hand Mirror
Looking for a thoughtful gift for a cat lover? Discover how the "Maruneko Tekagami" kimekomi hand mirror blends Japanese tradition, portability, and charm…
How to Use Japanese Small Plates in Everyday Meals
Put small Japanese plates to use with side dishes, snacks and sweets. Start with familiar food, then check the size and care guidance before buying.
A Japanese Enamel Tie Bar for a Promotion Gift: Start with Their Style
Choosing a promotion gift? Consider when they wear a tie, their preferred colours and the fit before exploring a Japanese enamel tie bar.
Can You Use Japanese Crafts Every Day? Start with Care
A practical guide to using Japanese crafts every day, with specific care advice for Mashiko pottery and hand-dyed Ise cotton.
Japanese Housewarming Gifts for a Home in the Making
A new address calls for a gift, but it can be hard to picture the space behind the door. Do they already have a kitchen full of plates? Is there room for …
How to Choose Japanese Artisan Gifts for Everyday Life
Choosing a Japanese artisan gift can feel difficult: Will it suit the recipient’s taste? Will they actually use it? The best choice is not necessarily the…
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