Participating in a tea ceremony in Japan means entering a world of calm, controlled gestures, and respect for traditions. This ancestral art, called chanoyu or sadō, is an integral part of Japanese culture. Whether you are passionate about Japan or simply curious to experience something authentic, attending a tea ceremony will immerse you in a universe where every detail matters, from the choice of utensils to the atmosphere of the room. But then, where to have a tea ceremony in Japan? Here are the most iconic places to experience this unique event. Kyoto, the spiritual cradle of chanoyu Before entering specific addresses, it is important to understand why Kyoto is an essential reference for tea ceremonies. An imperial capital for...
The summer in Japan is an intense, fascinating, and colorful season. From June to August, the country transforms: the rice fields turn green, festivals light up the nights, and summer traditions unfold in every corner of the territory. While the humidity and heat can be surprising, they are also an integral part of the Japanese summer experience. With proper planning of one's itinerary, summer offers a unique opportunity to discover a vibrant, festive Japan deeply rooted in its seasonal customs. Participate in a matsuri: traditional Japanese festivals One of the great pleasures of the Japanese summer lies in its countless matsuri. These are moments of sharing, spirituality, and celebration, immersing visitors in the popular soul of the country. The biggest...
In Japan, Valentine's Day and White Day form a duo of unique traditions, imbued with romance and exchange. These celebrations, although inspired by Western customs, have evolved to reflect the uniqueness of Japanese culture. Discover their history, their specifics, and why they fascinate so many around the world. Valentine's Day in Japan: a day for women The origins of Valentine's Day in Japan Valentine's Day was introduced in Japan in the 1950s by confectionery companies eager to boost their sales. Unlike in the West, where couples exchange gifts, the Japanese celebration quickly distinguished itself by emphasizing chocolates, which are given exclusively by women. This particular adaptation spread thanks to effective marketing campaigns, making Valentine's Day a pillar of Japanese popular...
Valentine's Day is much more than just a simple tradition; it is a celebration of love and the attention given to one another. If you are looking for an original and meaningful gift, Japan is full of unique and elegant ideas to make this day even more memorable. Whether you wish to give a traditional garment, a refined accessory, or a decoration imbued with serenity, discover in this article a multitude of inspirations for an unforgettable Valentine's Day. Japanese traditions surrounding Valentine's Day A unique cultural approach to love In Japan, Valentine's Day has a cultural peculiarity that distinguishes it from other countries. Unlike Western traditions, it is the women who give gifts, primarily chocolates, to men. These chocolates are...
fugu, or puffer fish, is much more than just a food in Japan. This fish is surrounded by a mixture of fascination and fear, due to its delicate flesh and deadly toxicity. Renowned as one of the most dangerous foods in the world, fugu is also a symbol of Japanese culinary excellence. In this article, discover everything you need to know about this emblematic fish, from its history to its careful preparation, including the essential places to taste it. What is fugu, this famous deadly Japanese fish? Characteristics of fugu The fugu is a generic term for several species of pufferfish, notably the torafugu, considered the tastiest and most prized. These fish are distinguished by their unique appearance: a round...
