Round fan (Uchiwa) – Japanese patterns meaning
In Japan, there are two types of traditional fans: the uchiwa (which we will cover here) and the sensu. The first is round and flat, while the second is foldable…
Japanese style homeware: a guide to bringing Japanese aesthetics into your home
Decorating our house with Japanese style homeware can add a touch of elegance and serenity. Not only for those who travelled or lived in Japan, but also for those wishing…
Autumn in Japan: not only foliage, a complete guide from food to festivals
Many agree that autumn in Japan is the best season. The heat of the summer is gone and you can walk outside in pleasant weather, dry and sunny. One of…
Survival Japanese: Must-Know Easy Phrases for Travelling in Japan
A comprehensive guide of survival Japanese words and expressions you might hear or use in your next trip. How exciting the upcoming trip to Japan! In cities like Tokyo, Osaka…
Tachibana (Mikan) – Japanese patterns meaning
History and meaning Mikan is a kind of mandarin from Japan. The official name is “Unshiu Mikan” but you might have also heard Japanese mandarin or Satsuma orange. So what…
Edo Kiriko cut glass – A Traditional Japanese Craft from Tokyo
Edo Kiriko is a traditional Japanese craft originating from Tokyo. Artisans skillfully carve geometric, floral, and animal patterns into glass, creating stunning pieces that reflect this delicate art form. The…
Japanese pattern – Matsu (pine tree)
IG post: @elenami_tokyo The word for pine tree “matsu” is pronounced as the Japanese verb “to wait”. Because of this it’s also linked to principles of the Shinto religion. It…
Chou (butterfly) – Japanese pattern and symbol explained
In Japan, the butterfly is a symbol of eternity and reincarnation. This is due to the transformations it undergoes during its lifetime. This characteristic has attracted the imagination of people…
Seigaiha (Blue wasves of the Ocean) – Japanese patterns meaning
The word “seigaiha” (or seikaiha) 青海波 is composed by three kanji which respectively means blue (青), ocean (海) and waves (波). It evokes the waves of the sea, calm and…
Higanbana (Red spider lily) – Japanese pattern meaning
Today`s Japanese pattern instroduces a beautiful flower. Despite the English name, the Red spider lily is generally red but can also be found in white or yellow. In Japanese it…