Heading to Naoki's studio is always a delight, as I cherish the scenic drive to the coastal town of Amakusa. Upon arrival, Sachi, Naoki's wife, greeted me warmly with a steaming bowl of Matcha served...
We headed from the mountains to the oceans! Japan may be small, but I always feel like there are countless spots to explore on Kyushu Island. I visited Naoki's studio with my sister this time....
Memory from visiting the Moriyama kiln. I bought his plates and bowls almost 10 years ago - way before I started my small business. Ever since, Itaru has been on my list to stock...
It's been more than 10 years since I last visited the Onta pottery village in Oita prefecture. I was super excited to see it again, didn't mind driving 7-8 hours round trip in a day!...
Lost in the Greens: Discovering Mugihiko's World Visited a young ceramic artist, Mugihiko Kitagawa, in the deep Aso mountains. Ended up lost in the middle of a rice field. The heavy rain was a bit...
Discover the serenity of Kumamoto with Yoka Good Tea brewing in your cup! Personally, this tea holds a special spot in my childhood memories.When I was planning to start Yoka, I wanted to spread this...
A special peek into the world of a master bamboo craftsman, Yasuo Fukuzaki. During my business trip, I got to meet the bamboo craftsman Yasuo Fukuzaki, all thanks to my friend from my hometown Kumamoto....
Experience the Exquisite Craftsmanship of Kite Making in Japan Ohayo Gozaimasu! A Morning with Tradition Begin our day with a warm "Ohayo Gozaimasu" (good morning) as I set out on the first destination of our buying...
After one year since I visited the Kai family, I went to see the Kai family again in Miyazaki prefecture to spend a day with them. I didn’t get to spend that much time with the...
I will be donating part of our sales of this month towards the rebuilding efforts for Kumamoto Castle, which was destroyed by the devastating earthquake in 2016. The castle has historically been an important symbol...
I went to meet the couple, Mr. and Mrs. Hirazumi who make Shimenawa wall hangings with the Igusa plants. Kumamoto is known for Igusa plants which are the materials for tatami mat. They were having...
My hometown Kumamoto is known for the rich environment to grow Igusa plants and there are many farms and factories who make the tatami mats. I drove to the countryside of Kumamoto to visit a...