LEARN JAPAN View More
JAPANESE SAMURAI / Raichō Hiratsuka
Raichō Hiratsuka (real name: Haru Hiratsuka) was born in 1886 in Tokyo into a wealthy, privileged family during Japan’s Meiji era. At that time, women were expected to conform to the societal model of ryōsai kenbo — the “good wife, wise mother. ” This philosophy shaped the entire education system for girls, emphasizing domestic skills such as sewing, child-rearing, and obedience, rather than intellectual development or professional ambitions.
Shochu 101: From Classic Sips to Modern Cocktails
What is Shochu? Shochu is a spirit that features a variety of traditional ingredients drawn from Japan’s long history, offering a wide range of appealing aromas and flavors. There are two main types of Shochu: authentic Honkaku Shochu (single-distilled) and the more neutral-tasting Korui Shochu (multiple-distilled). Honkaku Shochu is crafted from a diverse array of raw, flavorful ingredients. Its alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 20% to 30%, which is lower than that of many other spirits worldwide. However, the aromas produced by different ingredients and distillation methods give Honkaku Shochu a truly memorable character. Let’s explore some of…
JAPANESE SAMURAI / Sakanoue no Tamuramaro
Sakanoue no Tamuramaro was a distinguished samurai and statesman who lived during the early Heian period in Japan (late 8th to early 9th century). He is best remembered as the very first person to receive the title Seii Taishogun—meaning “Barbarian-Subduing Generalissimo”—a designation later made famous by military rulers such as Tokugawa Ieyasu.
JAPANESE SAMURAI / Tokugawa Yoshinobu
Tokugawa Yoshinobu was born in Edo (present-day Tokyo) in 1837. He was the seventh son of Tokugawa Nariaki, the ruler of Mito (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture) at the time, and was exceptionally talented among his siblings. Recognizing his intelligence, Nariaki raised him strictly from an early age as a future candidate for shogun.
YUZU – Japan’s Citrus Star Taking Over Global Cuisine
Yuzu is a small, highly aromatic citrus fruit native to East Asia, and it has been treasured in Japan for centuries. In modern times, it remains deeply rooted in Japan’s food culture and traditional customs. The fruit is roughly the size of a small grapefruit, with a rough, bumpy skin. As it ripens, its skin turns a vibrant yellow, releasing a powerful fragrance that can fill an entire room with just a single piece. The flavor of yuzu is uniquely complex, blending the sharp acidity of lemon, the gentle sweetness of mandarin orange, and a slight bitterness reminiscent of grapefruit.…
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MONTHLY FEATURE View More
Shochu 101: From Classic Sips to Modern Cocktails
What is Shochu? Shochu is a spirit that features a variety of traditional ingredients drawn from Japan’s long history, offering a wide range of appealing aromas and flavors. There are two main types of Shochu: authentic Honkaku Shochu (single-distilled) and the more neutral-tasting Korui Shochu (multiple-distilled). Honkaku Shochu is crafted from a diverse array of raw, flavorful ingredients. Its alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 20% to 30%, which is lower than that of many other spirits worldwide. However, the aromas produced by different ingredients and distillation methods give Honkaku Shochu a truly memorable character. Let’s explore some of…
YUZU – Japan’s Citrus Star Taking Over Global Cuisine
Yuzu is a small, highly aromatic citrus fruit native to East Asia, and it has been treasured in Japan for centuries. In modern times, it remains deeply rooted in Japan’s food culture and traditional customs. The fruit is roughly the size of a small grapefruit, with a rough, bumpy skin. As it ripens, its skin turns a vibrant yellow, releasing a powerful fragrance that can fill an entire room with just a single piece. The flavor of yuzu is uniquely complex, blending the sharp acidity of lemon, the gentle sweetness of mandarin orange, and a slight bitterness reminiscent of grapefruit.…
Experience Japanese Seafood: The Irresistible Charm of Buri and Hamachi
Good for Your Health, Better for the Planet The pursuit of “good taste and health” is deeply rooted in Japanese food culture. Buri and Hamachi are juicy, rich in umami flavor, and packed with healthy nutrients.In today’s world, seafood must not only be healthy for the body but also harvested in a way that supports the global environment. Buri and Hamachi are raised in sustainable environments in Japan, renowned for its rich seafood culture. These fish are healthy, sustainable, and irresistibly flavorful, making them a perfect choice for both your diet and the planet. Japan’s Unique Oceanic Delight Buri is…
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Trip 2 JAPAN | Beyond Sightseeing: Exploring Japan Through Food, Culure, and Unique Experiences
With the continued trend of a weak yen, the number of visitors to Japan has been steadily increasing. In 2024, the number of inbound tourists reached 36.86 million, setting a new all-time annual record. Notably, the United States ranked 4th in the number of visitors by country. Japan’s rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking seasonal landscapes continue to captivate travelers from around the world. At the same time, travel styles are becoming increasingly diverse. In the past, many tourists focused on experiencing Japan’s history by visiting famous temples and strolling through old townscapes. However, today’s travelers have a wider…
FOOD View More
Shochu 101: From Classic Sips to Modern Cocktails
What is Shochu? Shochu is a spirit that features a variety of traditional ingredients drawn from Japan’s long history, offering a wide range of appealing aromas and flavors. There are two main types of Shochu: authentic Honkaku Shochu (single-distilled) and the more neutral-tasting Korui Shochu (multiple-distilled). Honkaku Shochu is crafted from a diverse array of raw, flavorful ingredients. Its alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 20% to 30%, which is lower than that of many other spirits worldwide. However, the aromas produced by different ingredients and distillation methods give Honkaku Shochu a truly memorable character. Let’s explore some of…