Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links from which I will earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. "Contemporary maiko are young women, typically between fifteen and twenty years of age, who have chosen to train in an arts profession with roots in the merchant culture and pleasure quarters of the Edo period (1603–1867). … [Read more...] about Maiko Masquerade: Crafting Geisha Girlhood in Japan by Jan Bardsley
Culture & Tradition
Crafting Tatami in 21st Century Kyoto: An Interview with Mitsuru Yokoyama
Today we have a special guest post from our old friend, Lisa Y. Allen. Traditional Japanese Craftsmanship: Tatami in the 21st Century An interview with award-winning tatami craftsman, Mitsuru Yokoyama Tatami is a rush-covered straw mat used for flooring and dates back to the Nara Period when the word, tatami, first appeared in the Kojiki, the oldest Japanese book written … [Read more...] about Crafting Tatami in 21st Century Kyoto: An Interview with Mitsuru Yokoyama
Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with a Glass of Green Matcha Beer at Otani-Chaen Tea Shop, Inari!
If you happen to be in Kyoto on Saint Patrick's Day and are wondering how to celebrate (other than heading to an Irish Pub and getting hammered) - here's something new. I was strolling through the Fushimi Inari area today when I happened to spy this sign. The sign suggests celebrating Ireland's most important holiday, with a glass of beer, flavored and colored … [Read more...] about Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with a Glass of Green Matcha Beer at Otani-Chaen Tea Shop, Inari!
Shichi-go-san: A Special Ritual for Child Health and Longevity
From Ian Ropke, This month visitors will have a great chance to photograph children all dressed up in kimono, a special opportunity not to be missed. November is the month of the shichi-go-san (7-5-3) ritual for girls (seven and three years of age) and boys (five years of age). Shichi-Go-San is believed to have started in the Heian Period (794-1185). It was a ritual … [Read more...] about Shichi-go-san: A Special Ritual for Child Health and Longevity
What is “Deep Kyoto”? ~ Some thoughts from Lonny Chick
In recent months the Deep Kyoto Group on Facebook has really taken on a life of its own, with members sharing events, photos, info, opinions and even fun little quizzes! It really does feel like it has naturally grown into a vibrant community and a center of friendly discussion. One of our frequent contributors is Lonny Chick, who is perhaps better known on Twitter and Flickr … [Read more...] about What is “Deep Kyoto”? ~ Some thoughts from Lonny Chick
