Introduced simultaneously with rice cultivation and offered to the gods for an abundant harvest, the evolution of sake specific to Japan occurred with the establishment of rice cultivation and the development of brewing techniques. Yayoi...

Popular overseas and with an increasing number of fans, nishikigoi or Japanese carp, are classified into more than 100 varieties. Also known as “koi,” they are also called “living jewels.” Information about nishikigoi is disseminated...

Wagara, or traditional Japanese patterns, often adorn kimonos and tenugui hand towels. Learning about the names and origins of these patterns will make us understand that they have long been used for summoning good fortune and for...

The Japanese are accustomed to bathing in onsen, or hot springs, which are easily accessible to many. Japan has about 10% of the world’s active volcanoes, and it is blessed with volcanic hot springs. In...

Master Craftsmanship only carries authentic products made in Japan using traditional Japanese techniques. Our gift recommendations are sure to delight, whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion. With an array of items...

Denim enthusiasts know that the birthplace of Japanese denim is in Kojima District, Kurashiki City in Okayama Prefecture. How did this happen? Let’s examine Kojima’s history.   Kojima’s History of Turning Adversity into Opportunity Currently...

Shrines are Shinto, Temples are Buddhist Shrines and temples are both religious establishments. However, the religions from which they originate are different - shrines are from Shintoism, while temples are from Buddhism. Shinto is a...

Edomoji is a generic term for lettering styles often used during the Edo period (1603-1868). It included those used in sumo wrestling, kabuki, on lanterns, and senjafuda (paper slips posted on shrine pillars by pilgrims);...

You don't have to think too hard about mindfulness meditation. The good thing about it is that it's easy to do, and anyone can practice it immediately. Basically, all you have to do is to...

Budo, or Japanese martial arts, developed from kobujutsu, a traditional martial art where lethal, wounding, and subjugating techniques were combined with the “way” of perfecting one's character through its practice.  After the Meiji Period, killing...