In the hustle and bustle of our fast-paced world, finding a moment of tranquility can feel like an elusive dream. Enter Zazen, a profound meditation practice rooted in Zen Buddhism that offers a sanctuary of stillness amidst the chaos. Derived from the Japanese words “za,” meaning sitting, and “zen,” signifying meditation, Zazen is not just […]
Zazen Meditation Practice Read More »
In the heart of traditional Japanese craftsmanship lies the art of katana forging, a time-honored process that transcends generations, blending skill, spirituality, and metallurgical precision. Crafting a katana is more than a mere blacksmith’s task; it’s a spiritual journey that connects the artisan with centuries of tradition. At the core of katana forging is the
In the heart of Japan, amidst the ancient traditions and modern bustle, exists a sport that embodies the essence of strength, skill, and ritual: sumo wrestling. To witness a sumo match is to be transported into a world where tradition meets athleticism in a mesmerizing dance of power and technique. Stepping into a sumo arena,
Hello all! We are working steadily at being ready to work with our friends far and wide with an eye on the spring. Here is our first new newsletter that is sent to agencies and friends who are looking for a Deep Japan travel adventure. If you have found this and are not a travel
One of the greatest experiences our clients and guests have when they visit Japan is tea ceremony. There are a number of more “commercialized” places that have a tea service, where you will get some tea in a cup and some treat, and then you are sitting in a park or some place. I think
The art of rejoining is something that is very unique in Japan. A celebration of putting back together something that was broken, done here in ceramics, is a very interesting metaphor for living. Choosing how to visit Japan is an important thing to consider. Many people can easily arrive in Tokyo and wander around the
Kintsugi: The Art of the Imperfect Read More »
So, you have done it. You are in Japan! Hooray! You have come to Japan post-Covid19 and you are ready to dive right in. Just, don’t dive into the onsen bath. It’s not good manners. But why not? Why does Japan have all these rules that restrict my fun? Why are they oppressing me? First
How to Use the Public Onsen Bath in Japan Read More »
Do you know what you don’t deserve? You don’t deserve to be treated like cattle in an enclosure. We’ve all been there before. Standing in line like bleary-eyed livestock waiting for some barista (also known as marginally employed gum-chewing artist with a neck-tattoo) starting our day with “What do you want?” You’ve already waited far
Cup of Joe in Tokyo Read More »
You might be a bit frazzled on your arrival in Japan. Maybe you woke up way too early during your first few days. Do not worry, we have you totally covered. How about we make an early dawn trip to a traditional Japanese fish auction and seafood market. It can be an unbelievable experience! Take
Early Morning Fish Market! Read More »
Fortune favors the bold, and that is true when you cast off all manner of clothing and take some time to submerge yourself in the deep healing onsen baths of Japan. One of the most famous places to take a splash (but no splashing in the onsen please) is Dogo Onsen located in Matsuyama City,