Japanese Origami Paper: How to Choose the Right Paper

Today, when visiting Japan, you can walk into almost any 100-yen shop, art store or craft shop and find an amazing array of origami paper that any origami folder would drool over—from traditional washi paper to metallic foil paper, and even glow-in-the-dark paper! Keep reading to learn more about the types of Japanese origami paper and which one is right for you.

(more…)

Continue ReadingJapanese Origami Paper: How to Choose the Right Paper

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…)

Continue ReadingJapanese Sandals: What You Need to Know about Geta & Zori

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…)

Continue ReadingJapanese Furoshiki: One Cloth… Endless Possibilities