Tokyo Terry

Yamayaki (山焼き) is a centuries-old Japanese custom in Nara, Japan that involves ceremonially setting fire to mountainsides. Translated as “mountain burning,” the spectacular ceremony continues a tradition whose origins have been clouded by the passage of time.

Origami paper, with its rare simplicity and endless potential, is one traditional Japanese art forms. It requires no special equipment, making it available to people of all ages.

The black kimono plays an essential role in Japanese society. In modern Japan, people mostly wear them for formal occasions. Historically, black dye was difficult to both produce and obtain.

Japanese wasabi is an aromatic green root often in Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi. It is a centuries-long staple due to its unique flavor and medicinal properties.

Wabi sabi is so ever-present in Japan that you may not even notice it when you see it. What is it? How did it become so inseparable from Japanese culture? Why is it so popular down there?

From yokai to feminine creatures, mythical creatures are colorful backdrops to common folklore. Here, we will take a closer look at mythical creatures that rule over the element of water.