Japanese Culture | One Map by FROM JAPAN

Japanese Sandals: What You Need to Know about Geta & Zori

Most people probably know that Japan is a country where shoes are removed at the door. While modern Japanese people usually step out with a typical assortment of contemporary footwear, in centuries past the shoes-on, shoes off problem was solved by zori and geta, traditional Japanese sandals for all occasions and seasons. Today these sandals are most popular at fireworks festivals and other traditional events, but one thing hasn’t changed: With a shape a bit like casual beachwear, they are still comfortable! And unlike their thin rubber Western counterparts, zori and geta can be very beautiful as well as practical. Make a fashion statement and beat the heat with Japan’s traditional flip-flops!

(more…)

Japanese Furoshiki: One Cloth… Endless Possibilities

One cloth… endless possibilities. There is no other country quite as innovative as Japan, and this can best be illustrated with just one word—furoshiki. While Western countries might look at this wrapping cloth as merely an oversized napkin or handkerchief, Japan has found a way to utilize furoshiki by matching functionality with style. Keep reading to find out all of the ways you can bring furoshiki into your life!

(more…)

Building a Japanese Calligraphy Set: The 6 Essential Tools

Stretching back 5,000 years to the time when China first created the kanji writing system, the ancient art of Japanese…

What is Lolita Fashion? A Guide for Beginners

Lolita Fashion is a popular subculture as well as a type of street fashion in Japan. For the past 10 years, it has gradually gained popularity across the globe. This look is based around a youthful doll-like appearance. There is a high emphasis on being ‘cute’ while maintaining an elegant aura. The look takes inspiration from Victorian and Rococo styles but as incorporated into today’s street fashion. Some girls like to go a step farther than mere fashion, participating in a whole range of Lolita Activities such as “high tea” with other Lolita friends. They look like princesses in the modern world!

(more…)

9 Japanese Kitchenware for Mastering Japanese Cooking

When it comes to cooking Japanese food, having the proper Japanese kitchenware is just as important as the ingredients. From…

9 Traditional Japanese Dolls That Will Enhance Your Home’s Decor

Figurines and dolls have long been popular in Japan, and are not a recent trend as a result of modern anime and manga as some might believe. Centuries of innovation, creation, and refinement have gone into the hearts and souls of some of these most memorable Japanese works of art. Here is a guide all about the history, styles, and idiosyncrasies of these traditional Japanese figurines.

(more…)