Not the most fun update today, but I felt it was important to share something close to my heart. Last fall, we lost Miyawaki-san, the artist behind the sweet, whimsical clay dolls you may have...
Hi everyone! This year started off a bit differently—just like it has for so many of us—with shifting plans and a few unexpected turns. Between that and juggling family commitments, my annual buying trip was...
Every year, there's a sense of anticipation that fills my heart as I prepare for a cherished reunion with Mr. and Mrs. Hirazumi. This isn't just any gathering; it's a meeting filled with stories, tradition,...
Oita Prefecture, located in Kyushu, Japan, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions. It’s a place where nature and culture blend harmoniously, particularly in the art of bamboo crafting. The Essence of Bamboo...
I am thrilled to participate in this exciting 6 days pop-up event this October! It’s an honor to return to Tortoise General Store. TGS is a special place that holds so many cherished memories for...
Our recent family trip to Kumamoto was more than a visit; it was a heartfelt reconnection with my roots and a chance to introduce my daughter to the wonders of my hometown. Nestled in the...
I was living in my hometown of Kumamoto, Japan during the 2021 pandemic with my children. It was during that time when I decided to launch my small business, Yoka—a dream I had been nurturing...
From the moment the plane touched down, I always knew my adventure through Kumamoto, my beloved hometown in Japan, was going to be something special. There’s something deeply comforting about returning to your roots, especially...
In the heart of Japan’s ceramics country, there exists a small, almost magical world where tradition and artistry blend seamlessly with nature. In Amakusa islands, Naoki Kanazawa create his one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces, capturing the essence...
Junpei Kanazashi, born in Shizuoka, Japan, in 1959, has made his home in Minamata, Kumamoto Prefecture, for over four decades. His wife, Hiroko, is a master of botanical dyeing and weaving, crafting every ingredient from...
Before delving into the artistry of Hiroki Kanazawa, it's essential to understand the legacy of the Kanazawa family. Nestled in Amakusa city, Kumamoto prefecture, the Kanazawa family is renowned as a legendary ceramic dynasty with...
The incense master Toshichiro Tsutsumi introduced me to Yuta Kiyonaga, a talented young craftsman who runs a bamboo processing workshop in the local neighborhood. Yuta comes from a long line of artisans, and he...