Blog Masonry
The 160-Year Legacy of Hiyoshiya’s Wagasa
For over 160 years, Hiyoshiya has been dedicated to preserving the art of Kyo-wagasa, beautifully crafted traditional Japanese umbrellas. Specializing in different styles, like Janome-gasa and Ban-gassa, Hiyoshiya’s expertise extends beyond crafting pieces to also restoring wagasa used in temples, shrines, and ceremonies across Japan. While […]
VIP Grand Sumo Experience with Konishiki: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Tokyo Day and Night!
Step inside the beating heart of Japan’s national sport with our VIP Grand Sumo Experience — Tokyo, hosted by the legendary former ōzeki Konishiki. You’ll watch championship-deciding bouts on senshuraku, the final day of the September tournament, Sunday, Sept. 28, then celebrate at an intimate after-party […]
Things To Do In September In Kyoto 2025
Kyoto is well known for holding lots of festivals and events in the summertime, with the Gion Matsuri lasting the whole month of July, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do when the summer heat eventually starts to die down. As Kyoto’s landscapes turn from […]
THINGS TO DO IN OSAKA IN SEPTEMBER 2025
Autumn in Osaka has the perfect weather for some outdoor fun. With fall foliage adding an extra dash of color to this already vibrant, neon-lit city, autumn days can be as exciting as the nights here. We’ve lined up a fun little list of activities for […]
Things to do in Tokyo September 2025
No matter how many times you visit Tokyo, there’s always something new to do. From the latest tech showcases to celebrations of centuries of history and delectable treats, you really can’t go wrong in Tokyo. September is no exception, bringing a vibrant mix of tradition, competition, […]
The Magic Arrives in Tokyo: Inside Japan’s Flagship Harry Potter Shop in Harajuku
Tokyo just got a little more magical! Japan’s first flagship Harry Potter shop in Harajuku has officially opened its doors, and it is everything a wizard or a Muggle could dream of. Whether you are a lifelong fan of J.K. Rowling’s books, obsessed with the films, […]
Where Kyoto’s True Luxury Lies: An Interview with SOWAKA Hotel in Gion, Kyoto
Hotel SOWAKA Gion in Kyoto is the perfect getaway for those seeking the luxury of a traditional Japanese Ryokan with modern comforts. Located in the historic area of Gion, Hotel SOWAKA represents the best of life in Japan; an effortless blend between traditional craftsmanship and modern […]
The Charms of Mejiro: History, Culture and Culinary Delight
Located on the JR Yamanote line, Mejiro is a quiet and affluent district in Tokyo, easily accessible from other parts of the city. The name Mejiro has its origins in the Mejiro Fudo temple, which adds historical significance to the district. During the Edo period, Hatamoto […]
Solo Female Travelers Share Why Japan Should Be on Your List Too
Japan, a land of traditions, innovation, and modern culture. It has long captivated the hearts of travelers worldwide. Though for solo female adventurers, the thought of navigating a new culture, language, and transportation system alone can feel a little daunting. But what if we told you […]
Interview with Daniel Patterson: An LGBTQ+ Ikebana Artist’s Journey in Japan
From a childhood surrounded by gardens in Canada to a life rooted in the art of ikebana in Japan, Daniel Patterson’s story is one of inspiration. Owner of Star River Ikebana Studio, Daniel is not only a dedicated Sogetsu-style ikebana teacher and artist but also a […]