Japan is well renowned for beautiful traditional buildings and shrines. Part of that old aesthetic is traditional Japanese fans and umbrellas. These fans and umbrellas are still seen and used to this day, especially in the cultural capital of Kyoto. However, the questions many have are what are they, where did they come from and when did people use them?
Cosplay (or “costume play”) costumes is one of Japan’s biggest trends, where fanboys and fangirls wear costumes based on their favorite anime and video game characters. As an art form and hobby, cosplay costumes has spread around the world, and, today, cosplayers regularly attend conventions called “Cons,” where they meet others in costume, gather for photoshoots, participate in contests, and make unforgettable memories.
While some cosplayers like to sew their own costumes and build their own props, many do not have the time, knowledge, or resources to do so. For those who want to purchase the highest end of cosplay costumes quality, or those who wish to get their lenses, wigs, clothing, and other accessories straight from the homeland of cosplay costumes, Japan offers some of the best cosplay costumes goods in the world.
After painting your Gunpla kit, it is recommended to apply decals to improve the realism and coolness of your Gundam plastic model. Applying decals can sometimes be intimidating, but just a like finished race car, your Gundam will ultimately look more professional and genuine with decals. In the end you will be glad that you put them on your kit!
Since the launch of the Pokemon anime series in 1997, Japan’s shelves have been rife with cute merchandise. Toys, stationary, clothing—you name it, it’s been done. You can take Pokemon home with you, and you can even choose to eat him! Pokemon products still big business to this day in Japan, especially when it comes to Japanese candy and snacks that you just can’t get in any other country.
Kimono and yukata are traditional Japanese garments that have charmed people around the world with their beauty, style, and traditional aesthetic. They are full-length T-shaped robes that have long sleeves and are secured in place with a decorative belt. There are many specific rules for when and how to wear kimono and yukata, known as kitsuke. The rules for kimono are much stricter as they are considered formalwear, while rules for wearing yukata are more relaxed. (more…)
What’s filled with nightly firework displays, festivals, warm-weather fashion, and—of course—green tea ice cream? Summer in Japan, of course!
But regardless of where you live, or what traditions you celebrate, summertime is a season to be excited… about new figurine releases, straight from Japan!
From classics like Dragon Ball, to current smash-hits like Tokyo Ghoul, we’re counting down—in no particular order—the top fourteen most anticipated figurine releases of the summer months.