In certain cultures, moss is dismissed as an unwanted growth; yet in Japan, it is held in high esteem. Found thriving in temple gardens, forests, mountainsides, and even within bustling urban landscapes, moss possesses a unique significance…

Libraries in Japan serve as vital hubs for their communities. More than just lending books, they foster local culture, nurture young minds, and provide a welcoming space for respite. This installment focuses on the evolving role of these in…

The kimono, Japan's iconic garment, is often perceived as attire reserved for formal events. However, contemporary designs are gaining prominence within the fashion sphere. In this conversation with Peter Barakan, conducted by a fellow enth…

Originating in 17th-century Japan, ukiyo-e is a distinctive art form rendered through woodblock prints. These works vividly depict people and landscapes, distinguished by their bold compositions and vibrant colors. The art of ukiyo-e exerte…

The earthquake that struck off the coast of northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011, registering a magnitude of 9.0, triggered a devastating tsunami. The disaster claimed the lives of approximately 18,000 people and left many more missing. Ish…

From time-worn brooms to sleek, modern carpet cleaners, the Japanese employ a diverse array of cleaning implements – each designed with a specific purpose in mind. Often, these tools carry a significance that extends beyond mere utility. Mu…

The art of lacquerware involves applying the sap of the lacquer tree to objects, a practice rooted in tradition for millennia. This process yields a remarkable durability and a unique sheen that deepens with age. Professor Hidaka Kaori eluc…

The adoption of Western clothing in Japan began roughly a century and a half ago, and the suit has since become the accepted standard for business wear. Fashion journalist Yamamoto Teruhiro will recount the history of the men's suit, explor…

The devastating earthquake and tsunami of 2011 claimed the lives of approximately 19,000 people, leaving many more missing. The tragedy underscored Japan's vulnerability to natural disasters, prompting a decade of innovation in emergency pr…

During a conversation with a devotee of Japanese culture, Peter Barakan encounters Chad Mullane, a comedian from Perth, Australia. Mullane discusses the nuances of Japanese comedy, recounting the moment he first became captivated by it. Sni…

Furoshiki are traditional Japanese wrapping cloths, squares of fabric employed for centuries to safeguard, store, and transport a multitude of items. Often adorned with vibrant, intricate designs, they are themselves objects of art. Today's…

Throughout its history, Japan has been repeatedly afflicted by devastating outbreaks of diseases such as smallpox, measles, and cholera. The first section of "Japan vs. Epidemics" detailed the history of these epidemics up to the mid-19th c…

These compact dwellings, typically encompassing around fifty square meters, have gained considerable popularity in recent years, particularly within densely populated urban areas. Often distinguished by inventive layouts and thoughtful desi…

Japanese timepieces, from watches to clocks, command global respect for their precision and lasting quality. Many embody cutting-edge technological advancements. Joining us today is Oda Ichiro, who dedicated twenty-six years to a watchmakin…

Remarkably lifelike plastic food samples grace the entrances of restaurants throughout Japan, offering prospective diners a tempting preview of the cuisine within. Crafted by skilled artisans who meticulously mold real dishes, these three-d…

In a conversation with a devotee of Japanese culture, Peter Barakan sits down with Asa Ekstrom, a Swedish manga artist. Her creations offer a lighthearted perspective on life in Japan, capturing the unexpected wonders encountered daily. Eks…

Cats have recently surpassed all other species to become the most popular pet in Japan, a trend showing no signs of slowing. This surge in affection has fostered a unique culture, marked by feline celebrities, innovative products, and even …

Robots are a familiar sight on factory floors, diligently assembling goods. Yet, Japan is increasingly welcoming personal robots—devices crafted to foster conversation, offer companionship, and provide emotional support. Novel iterations ap…

With the introduction of scissors to Japan, their development took distinctive paths. Japanese artisans adapted their established sword-making skills to craft a diverse array of highly specialized and bespoke tools. Today, we speak with Kaw…

In a conversation with a magazine devoted to all things Japan, Peter Barakan sits down with Marty Friedman, the celebrated guitarist from the United States. A mainstay of a prominent heavy metal band, Friedman traversed the globe on tour. Y…

Japan is a land steeped in symbolism; countless places, objects, and traditions are imbued with auspicious meaning. The beckoning cat, or *maneki neko*, and the celebratory meal shared on New Year's Day are but two examples. Today, we speak…

Tatami mats are a defining element of Japanese interiors. Crafted from rice straw and covered with woven rush, they possess a gentle resilience and a subtly refreshing natural scent. Rooms featuring tatami are spaces for dining, sleeping, a…

For generations, skilled craftspeople have meticulously constructed and preserved wooden chests and cabinets, employing techniques passed down through time and using enduring materials. These pieces frequently become cherished heirlooms, mo…

Peter Barakan, speaking with a fellow enthusiast of Japanese culture, sat down with Nicholas Rennick, an Australian physician practicing at a Tokyo hospital. Dr. Rennick arrived in Japan in April 2020, coinciding with the pandemic's onset, …

Strong yet yielding, and flourishing in profusion, bamboo has been a cornerstone of Japanese artistry and architecture for millennia. This adaptable plant offers more than just structural support; its shoots are a celebrated delicacy, embod…

The Ainu, an indigenous people inhabiting the northern regions of Japan, have long maintained a profound connection to the natural world as hunter-gatherers. This is the first of two explorations of the Ainu culture, focusing on the Nationa…

The Ainu, an indigenous people inhabiting Hokkaido and its surrounding regions, have long maintained a deep connection to the natural world as hunter-gatherers. This is the second installment in a two-part series exploring contemporary Ainu…