Objects & Symbols The Soul of Japan in a Single Drum
What a Taiko Drum Reveals About Japanese CultureAt first glance, this is just a drum.Wood. Leather. Metal studs.Nothing ...
2026-02
Objects & Symbols 
Yokai Were Kimono with Yōkai Designs Made Only for Display?
At first glance, kimono decorated with yōkai (Japanese supernatural beings) may look like purely decorative or ceremonia...
Objects & Symbols The Art of Hagoita: Traditional Japanese Decorative Dolls
Japanese traditional crafts often reflect seasonal customs, symbolism, and meticulous handwork.One such example is Hagoi...
Myths & Deities Shishimai: How Japan Made the Lion Dance Its Own
At first glance, Shishimai may resemble other lion dances found across Asia, but in Japan it evolved into a unique ritua...
Objects & Symbols A Quiet Spin — The Japanese Wooden Top
Spinning tops can be found in many cultures around the world,but the Japanese koma carries a sense of quietness.Made of ...